Nadir Nahdi is many things. A presenter, film-maker, sustainability advocate, producer, and founder of Beni—a culture lab for creative ideas. Based in London with Yemeni, Indonesian, Pakistani and Kenyan roots, he was recently named on a list of influential Londoners by The Evening Standard. It’s safe to say, he’s got a lot going on.
Your life involves quite a bit of travel. What are some wardrobe staples that help you manage how reactive your career can be?
Comfort and durability are two key aspects I look for. For example, have a pair of pleated black trousers by Ben Klark. They’re basically affordable Issey Miyakes, but they’re both so comfortable and durable, and they look great. I’ve worn them on a red carpet, and I’ve worn them after a dip in the ocean. They can be smart, and they can be casual. They’re my favourite piece right now. I take them everywhere.
What I love to wear are clothes that tell a story. I was raised understanding the significance of our traditions and culture. Clothes and textiles were these archives of our history. Every stitch told a tale. When you wore them it was like your passport that identified who you were and where you came from.
I’m passionate about people, culture and sustainability. I have come to understand that fashion is deeply connected to all of these things. If a brand or clothing has come to disrupt or exploit people and culture it will never be part of my wardrobe.
What’s your favourite outfit right now?
A kimono set from my friend [Jordanian designer], Zaid Farouki. It’s dark, chic, and fits me like a glove. The best thing about it is it looks so effortless, but is actually really smart and put together. Also, I always have a pair of converse in my suitcase. They are the perfect balance of casual but can also be styled smart and chic.
What country has the best street food?
Questions like these get me into trouble across my mixed family! I have my personal preference, but I’d have to say Indonesian, specifically, Nasi Padang. Indonesia’s access to spice, produce, and culinary heritage results in such a diverse, delicious, and flavourful street food culture, yet so few have experienced it properly!
So talk us through the Three Fits that you’ve chosen…
Fit One
This Fendi outfit is a perfect example of less is more. I don’t need many pieces in my wardrobe. I just need few of amazing quality ones that make me feel good, comfortable and still be chic. It’s soft to the skin, and the love the intricate motif pattern on the shirt.
Fit two
This Loro Piana look is probably my favourite fit of the three. I love the earthy Arabian tones and colour. It has a casual-but-effortlessly smart feel about it. It says a lot, but it also blends into my environment.
Fit Three
My friend [the Jordanian designer] Zaid Farouki always makes me feel like I’m wearing something special due to the design and just how much consideration I know goes into every piece he designs. He meticulously researches Arabian silhouettes and reinterprets them, I love being part of that process too.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY OSCAR MUNAR / STYLING BY SEHER KHAN / STYLIST ASSISTANCE BY JANHVI KOHLI AND YASMIN REDA
