To create his chic, edgy menswear and accessories, John Varvatos draws inspiration from his hometown of Detroit and the charismatic rock musicians it has spawned — including Jack White, Alice Cooper and Iggy Pop. From slim-fitting shirts and jeans to sharp suits and jackets, Varvatos’ designs feature expert cuts, distressed leather or unfinished edges, and dark color schemes. In recent years Varvatos’ primary brand, the John Varvatos Collection, has skewed toward a more retro-vintage, refined look — think dandy jackets, three-piece suits in subdued tones, and artsy eyewear. But worry not, rough-and-tumble rocker dudes: Varvatos’ secondary clothing line, John Varvatos Star USA, remains true to the designer’s downtown cool origins with irreverent motifs and lots of cowhide and black. And Converse John Varvatos, his successful collaboration with the famous footwear brand, features Chuck Taylor high-tops and slip-ons constructed from dyed or distressed leather, metal studs, zippers, and other punk rock fashion touches. Since launching his clothing line in 2000, Varvatos has earned three CFDA awards for his designs — but accolades from the likes of Slash and ex-Led Zeppelin lead singer Robert Plant surely matter to him just as much as any industry honor.