Armed with an impressive resume that boasts such clients as Mary J. Blige, Tracee Ellis Ross, Diddy, Baby Phat, Dolce & Gabbana, Giorgio Armani, MTV, NBC, Atlantic and a host of others, Dhalimu Robinson is ‘Mr. One Man Show’ in the entertainment and fashion industries.  A triple threat (fashion, interior design and culinary arts), Dhalimu, which is Swahili for “treacherous,” was born in New York City, raised in Alabama and reborn again in the streets of Harlem where he cultivated a refined love of all things glamour.  Ladies and gents, I present DHALIMU ROBINSON of Style Aficionados Inc.

What is it that you do?

I am a ‘lifestyle connoisseur.’ I have branded myself as a one-stop shop for all of your cultural needs from décor to travel to culinary to fashion and much more.

What was that “a-ha” moment when you not only realized you had style but wanted to work in fashion?

When I would purchase ordinary white Levi jeans, treat them with different colored dyes and recreate new outfits. Everyone would compliment me on my creativity and there began my love affair with fashion.

What is style?

One word: CONFIDENCE!  Style is everything you do and as a Lifestylist, I follow the three “Ts” which are texture, taste and time.  For example, I would only wrap Christmas gifts in The New York Times  newspaper, pairing a person’s demenor with a section that best describes their personality.

What trends can we expect to see this fall?

Shades of yellow from mustard to citron as well as fur-trimmed items (faux, of course).

How has the evolution of men’s fashion changed over the course of your lifetime?

Men are starting to wear more accessories as a necessity not an after-thought; think of bracelets, chunky watches and neckwear. But the top trend of the decade belongs to the art of mixing patterns, whether it is gingham shirts, striped ties, polka dot hankies and a host of others.

Who are your favorite men designers?

John Bartlett, Faconnable, Etro and G-Star jeans.

What is your favorite vacation spot?

Amsterdam, especially Vondel Park which rivals New York City’s Central Park

What is your favorite drink?

Homemade iced tea. But for a more flavorful experience, turn it into a Long Island Iced Tea and  add Amaretto Sour.

What is your favorite restaurant?

I have a few.  For ambiance, I go to Buddakhan NYC; for food, there is Bento; in Harlem, I love Afrika Kine; and for overall (décor, service and food), I visit Fiamma.

Describe your favorite outfit.

A solid colored suit with a gingham shirt, striped tie and polka dot hanky.

Who, in your opinion, are the best dressed celebrities?

Tom Ford, Michelle Obama, Carolina Herrera and The Smiths.

Tips/rules for great men’s fashion?

-Have accessories necessary: collar stays, handkerchiefs and cuff links.

-Remove tags off sleeves of jackets.

-Keep collars inside suit jackets.

-Shoes and belts should only match in business settings; you can mix it up for after five affairs.

-For the perfect uniform, go with a tailored chino, an oxford shirt and loafers (sans socks).

-Tie clips are key!! Why? For leaning over, of course.

-Wallets should always look like you just purchased it.  It should never make a noticeable impression in your back pocket.

-Only one ring please!

If you threw a dinner party, who would you invite dead or alive?

Eartha Kitt, Diahann Carroll, Dixie Carter, Sidney Poitier, Michelle Obama and my family (mom, dad, grandparents and deceased brother).

What is your daily grooming regime?

First, I start with the hair, which goes through the following process: shampoo, condition, hair pomade , a du-rag,  blow dry and after 20 minutes your look  is complete! For the body, I use a pomegranate shower gel and Level 2000 soap.  Next, I floss, brush, Listerine and Blistex my lips.  Lastly comes the cologne; I only use parfum and apply three shots (behind the ear, the inner elbow and the pulse points).

What is the greatest compliment that you ever received?

“You look like a modern-day Cary Grant.”

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