Just for the record

Press
All press / news

Just for the record
5:00AM Tuesday March 18, 2008

Nick Rhodes is the keyboardist with 80s phenomenon Duran Duran. Back then, what mattered to a pop star as much as their music was their hair.

Rhodes - who was born Bates but changed his name to Rhodes after the Greek island - was no exception.

As a founding member of the most successful synth band of the decade (with hits such as Hungry Like the Wolf, Wild Boys and Girls on Film) hairspray and eyeliner were his stock in trade.

The band are experiencing something of a renaissance with the 80s obsession in full swing, and the five original members reuniting in 200l.

They released their latest album Red Carpet Massacre only last year.

Rhodes' sartorial sensibilities have kept pace with fashion and, we're pleased to discover, so has his sense of humour.

How has fashion changed since your early days with Duran Duran?

We have bigger shoulder pads now and we are considering reviving the grand mullet.

Whose wardrobe would you most like to raid?

Any old 1970s game-show host.

Any style icons?

A reclusive Tibetan ventriloquist - but I'm afraid I cannot reveal either his name or current whereabouts.

Who are your favourite designers?

Agent Provocateur and Frederick's of Hollywood.

What was the last item of clothing you bought?

Gold satin plus-fours - this season's must have.

What's your biggest indulgence?

Starched shirt collars and leather elbow patches.

Best fashion bargain?

A box full of unused designer labels.

Is there anything you'd never wear?

A dead man's shoes.

What is the biggest fashion mistake you have ever made?

Asking other people's advice.

Is there anything you think the fashion police should ban?

Toga parties.

What is your grooming routine?

I carefully follow the instructions on every product.

The one rule you always dress by?

8.30pm for dinner.

The best sartorial advice you've ever been given?

Always wear rubber gloves.

Your favourite shop?

Duty free in Honolulu airport.

* Duran Duran play Vector Arena on March 26. To book go to www.ticketmaster.co.nz

Courtesy New Zealand Herald