Meet the Penge fashionista who was featured in Tatler magazine

Thomas Brooks, a 23-year-old with an affinity for style and expression, says he would like to be remembered for his “well measured” opinions, that sees a “good current standard of fashion which is appropriate”.

The former stylist was approached by the style editor of Tatler magazine when he was asked if he wanted to be featured in the ‘best dressed list’ feature.

Thomas Brooks (Image: Thomas Brooks)

Thomas told the News Shopper: “The team saw something in my style and character to put me in the top 25 for best dressed in the UK for 2023.

“It was nice because I wasn’t sure what photo would be picked until the day, and he didn’t shy away from the fact that my taste touches upon women’s wear.

“I think it says a lot about where queer representation is going.

“But also, my mum, who is half Indonesian, posted it, and I was very surprised at the response – it was nice to see the representation.”

Despite the success in the fashion industry, Thomas initially wanted to pursue a career in acting, but casting had proven difficult, and he eventually entered the inclusive realm of fashion, where he discovered his passion for design, illustration, and photography.

“I loved putting myself into someone else's shoes and exploring that story, but I actually moved on from that because I found it quite difficult during casting”, Thomas added.

With common financial barriers many face in pursuing a career in fashion, Thomas acknowledged that his image may portray affluence, but he says he can “completely relate” to those who may be struggling financially.

Thomas added: “It’s really interesting, because a lot of people assume that I'm someone of high society and that I have money and actually that is simply not true.

“I am a Penge boy and had the same opportunity with everyone else.

“I went to state school in Beckenham and that was an interesting experience – but it's just all about your imagination.

“If you go into life with conviction and confidence, but also argue your points in life knowing the context and combining that with your perspective of life, then people will gravitate towards you.”

As a teenager, Thomas says he was no stranger to shopping for Chanel style pieces in high street shops such as H&M and Zara.

“Life doesn't revolve around designer clothes and there is various ways of expressing your style” Thomas added, as he says a “big part” of understanding fashion is understanding the proportion of your body.

Thomas explained: “Once you get to know yourself physically, you're able to style yourself.

“You will know off the bat if a pair of trousers will work on you or not.

“The price won’t necessarily matter to you anymore; you’ll be happy to pay ten or twenty pounds for trousers.

“In terms of trends, I would say if you were interested in fashion, keep an eye on it and do your research, but personally, I wouldn't be so absorbed with it.

“Just simply because, you are going into the fashion industry because of your personal tastes and perspective of life, not because you're obsessed with Balenciaga handbags or Jordan trainers.”

Thomas says his mum has been “especially proud” of the work he has already achieved, especially considering the cultural expectations often placed on Asian families.

He said: “When you’re from an Asian background, fashion isn’t necessarily something you want your family to get into, because they don’t see how you can be successful.

“In recent years, she has come to realise that it’s not just something I am invested in, but something I have succeeded in.

“Of course, as cliché as it sounds, Anna Wintour is a role model to me, and I would love to have a career as long as her.

“I would love to take on the crown as the queen of fashion.”