Since its inception in 2007, The Impossible Cool has gained a cult-like following amongst lovers of vintage photographs of people who are, well, impossibly cool. Most are black and white shots of creative types ranging from Paul Newman to Francoise Hardy to Andy Warhol. The well-edited collection of images that Sullivan has cultivated land on inspiration boards — and for that matter Pinterest boards — of tastemakers across the globe. Here, SaksPOV sits down with the arbiter of all-things cool.
SaksPOV: Describe an Impossible Cool person.
S.S.: Always have to quote Mr. Vidal in saying “Style is knowing who you are, what you want to say and not giving a damn.”
SaksPOV: What are you working on right now?
Sean Sullivan: I’m in the middle of a photo project now for the new Tiffany’s store in SoHo. Also, getting ready to sort out a new collection for the Sonic Editions series, along with a book in the horizon.
SaksPOV: Whose work are you into these days?
S.S.: I’m a huge fan of anything Hedi Slimane is up to these days. Also, looking forward to my friend Jake Davis’ book to hit the shelves.
SaksPOV: Do you have any rules when it comes to your personal style?
S.S.: Keep it simple. Don’t pile on too much stuff just to stand out.
SaksPOV: Do you have any travel plans?
S.S.: Yes 100%. Travel is essential to me. Once my plate is cleared I’m heading off to Greece for a bit. I’ve got Columbia on my short list as well.
SaksPOV: What’s your fondest summer memory?
S.S.: Growing up my family always took a summer vacation down to the shore in Avalon, NJ. Early evening cruises to the Back Bay in my dad’s boat are memories I hold close.
SaksPOV: If you could choose any other industry to work in, what would it be?
S.S.: I would love to run a charter sailboat out of some small pacific island. At one point, I seriously contemplated checking out and getting a job as a deckhand to learn that world. A little seaplane would fit nicely in there as well.
Sean Shops His Favorites on Saks.com:
Gant Rugger Chino: “Easy color and weight to wear until the Fall.”
Earnest Sewn Dean Tee: “These wear in to near perfection.”
A.P.C. Sweatshirt: “Beaches get cold at night in the summer. This sweatshirt is insanely comfortable.”
Kiehls Moisturizer: “Stay hydrated.”
Persol sunglasses: “Classic frame you can’t go wrong with.”
Graphic Image Passport Wallet: “Travel is so much smoother when everything is one place.”
Jack Spade Stowaway Nylon Duffle: “For the short hauls.”
Longchamp Surf Nylon Rolling Suitcase: “For the long ones.”
Guys: what are your fashion essentials? Pin your favorite items from Saks.com and Tweet @Saks!