Style scout: Jeffery Ridenour

Jeffery Ridenour

Age: 21.

Sign: Aquarius.

Hometown: Lawrence.

Occupation: Barista at Mirth Café.

What he's wearing:

Sweater: Banana Republic, Fall 2007, $398.

Embroidered Oxford Shirt: Banana Republic, Fall 2007, $98.

Waistcoat: Target, Fall 2008, $7.

Scarves: Gap, Fall 2008, $19.95/each.

Belt: Banana Republic, Fall 2007, $59.

Pants: Arizona Trading Company, October 2009, $16.

Shoes: Arizona Trading Company, October 2009, $16.

Messenger Bag: Ebay, Fall 2008, $60.

What were you doing when scouted? I was on my way to meet a friend and then go to yoga.

How would you describe your style? My style is partially modern, partially classic European. One of my grandfathers was half-Dutch, the other was English, and their European-country styles were ingrained into me during my youth.

What are your current favorite fashion trends? I appreciate designs that cleverly incorporate utility features without sacrificing their overall aesthetic qualities. Right now, I like the resurgence of the shawl collar — it is a collar but also a built-in scarf.

What are your least favorite fashion trends? You know, I think when people just… “wear whatever,” it takes the choice and the personal opinion out of fashion. For example, oversized glasses are en vogue — and they can be brilliant, but only if they flatter your face, frame your face nicely and highlight your bone structure. Why would you pick a frame that hides your best features? Similarly, clothing that doesn’t fit properly just ruins the point.

Who are your fashion influences? Diverse cultures around the globe all inspire me. I would love to pick and chose fashions from different cultures that work for me and compile them. When I see an old photograph featuring a piece I am drawn to, I keep the image in my head, find modern versions, and reconstruct those looks.

What would you like to see more of in Lawrence? Volvos and Subarus. I really believe in their design philosophy. A lot of engineering and design goes into every car model issued by these makers, and this extra devotion ensures a quality vehicle that is high-function and visually appealing.

What would you like to see less of in Lawrence? I would like to see less type-casted parties that appeal to mass youth culture. I want my generation to host a wider variety of social parties — dinner parties or intimate get-togethers that stimulate conversation on a more personal level.

People say I look like: I’ve heard that I look like Amedeo (Pace), the guitarist from Blonde Redhead. I think we have similar styles, plus we are both slender and have prominent facial features. I sometimes hear Adrien Brody, too.

Tell us a secret: When I was a little kid, I used to play in my Grandpa’s closet. That’s where I learned how to dress. I would just hide in there for hours and try on all of his clothes.