The founder and creative director of Matthias Kaupermann, which launched in 2015 with luxe cornhole boards, fills us in on his new belts and summer faves
Q What inspired Matthias Kaupermann’s new belts?
A I love my monogrammed, engine-turned sterling-silver buckle, yet found it too dressy for most casual situations. I felt a needlepoint strap would make it suitable for pairing with jeans and khakis, but nothing existed that would accommodate my slide buckle. Finally, I designed my own (shown above).
Q We hear you enjoy golf; do you have any gear recommendations?
A Hands down, my favorite performance polo is the “Competition Stripe Stretch Jersey Polo” by Peter Millar (shown above). Its lightweight, moisture-wicking fabric keeps you cool and looking sharp from the course to the clubhouse.
Q Name a favorite summertime activity.
A I love being anywhere near the water. Strolling along the Battery at sunset, relaxing at the beach on Sullivan’s Island, or reeling in a big red on a boat are all at the top of my list.
Q Which personal accessory are you most particular about?
A I’m weird in that I have to coordinate my hat with the rest of my outfit. I’ve collected more than a hundred hats from various trips, but my favorite is my sun-faded red canvas one with the Matthias Kaupermann logo.
Q Do you have a go-to summer shoe?
A Flip-flops and driving mocs because I prefer to go sans socks whenever appropriate. SWIMS’ “Lace Loafer” (shown above) is perfect for the pool.
Q What kind of bag do you pack for a weekend getaway?
A Sometimes it’s difficult to distinguish between a Monday and Friday night in Charleston. Any work day could turn into a trip to IOP or Sullivan’s, so I like to keep a “go bag” in my backseat with essentials like a beach towel, swim trunks, shirt, flip-flops, and toiletries. Filson’s duffel (shown above) holds it all while aging gracefully.
Photographs by (Guthrie) Melissa Toms, (belt) Nico Ritmeyer, & (Battery) Melinda Monk, & courtesy of (shoe) SWIMS, (bag) Filson, & (shirt) Peter Millar