How would you describe each other’s style?

Ayo: Adrian’s aesthetic is influenced by ’80s rock and hip-hop. He might take a T-shirt from Japan, mix it with a bag from England and a pair of Italian shoes—and he gets it all at thrift stores.
Adrian: He has an underground style; he has no rigid style guidelines.

Who’s your biggest style influence?

Ayo: People say that I dress like Lenny Kravitz or Andre 3000 from the hip-hop group Outkast. I’d say I dress like a “rude boy” or a Jamaican film gangster.
Adrian: I’d say rocker Tommy Lee and Japanese designer Issey Miyake.

What’s your favorite thing in your closet?

Ayo: Red platform velvet shoes that I bought for $2 from the Salvation Army. I wear them all the time with everything.
Adrian: He also carries a man purse.
Ayo: Only when I’m feeling my European/West African roots. But yo, my dad used to rock a man purse! He was a very elegant dresser.
Adrian: I love my black angora Kangol hat that I got years ago for $30. I’m probably known for my collection of hats. It’s an old-fashioned touch that sets you apart.

Where do you shop?

Adrian: I’m definitely not a label whore. I mix things from Meeps, the vintage store in Adams Morgan, with Banana Republic or Jean Paul Gaultier.
Ayo: I like the District Line in Georgetown. If money were no object, I’d go for British designer Ozwald Boateng.

What would each of you say is the other’s biggest fashion mistake?

Ayo: Oh, God, he wore this glistening shirt once that was baggy and snug at the same time.
Adrian: I remember a suit that was three shades of burgundy. Not a good look.

What’s your best fashion advice?

Adrian: Take some chances. If you see someone wearing something you like, don’t be afraid to try it yourself.
Ayo: Wear pink shirts. People think it’s sissy for a man to wear it, but I think it shows you’re confident in your masculinity.