Now that legions of unknowns can hop on EasyJet flights to anywhere, the appellation “international man of mystery” is only used in jest. Yet, no description suits James Goldstein better. While his signature lux-rock style identifies him as a quintessentially L.A. creature, he is usually spotted around the world indulging his passions for basketball, architecture and high-end fashion. With his omnipresent exotic skin cowboy hats, jackets and boots (paired with weathered jeans and faded tee-shirts), Goldstein appears utterly at ease while attracting unwavering attention at high-end international events.
As Derek Blasberg revealed in a witty profile for Interview magazine, Goldstein’s backstory is as enigmatic as his style and lifestyle are bright. Although his home, one of John Lautner’s legendary residential properties, was the residence of a philosophical pornographer in “The Big Lebowski,” Goldstein denies any rumours that his money was made in the same racket. What is completely established, however, is that Goldstein is the largest investor in NBA tickets in the world, the home that he bought in 1972 is one of America’s architectural masterpieces, and designers in all major and emerging fashion cities reciprocate his love of fashion. Here, we focus on the transparent fact that Goldstein is an expert on global fashion in a phone call after his first game on his home’s new illustrious tennis court.
Ana Finel Honigman: Besides both involving extremely tall people moving in front of you, what does the experience of following fashion and basketball share?
James Goldstein: To me, a big part of NBA basketball is the players’ style. They show their individuality through their moves. They are creative and stylish. Really good fashion has the same creativity.
AFH: So, you’re comparing the players to the designers, not the models. In this analogy, who represents the conflicting teams? How is conflict expressed?
JG: Designers don’t participate together but there must be teamwork backstage. Designers compete with each other but I don’t think of their competition that way. There isn’t a sense of winning a game. But, I imagine when reviews are printed then there is some sense of competition.
AFH: How did your unique style evolve?
JG: My style is one of trying to express my individuality. It’s my own fashion statement. I try to stay unique and ahead of everyone else. I have no impediments to being willing to try new things. Most of my male counter-parts are afraid to try new things. They don’t want to try things that are different.
AFH: That answers my next question. I was interested in an interview where you once said that you’re not a fan of American fashion. Yet what is more American than a cowboy aesthetic, which you ebody beautifully. Is this fearlessness what a cowboy signifies for you?
JG: I know that people say that I have an ‘urban cowboy’ style but I don’t see it. I know that I wear a hat but the brim is different that a cowboy brim. The hat is shaped differently. My boots are also always European. I am wearing Dior boots right now. They are women’s boots but they have a low heel. They are the best boots that I own. My scarves give my outfits a little accent but they aren’t cowboy scarves.
AFH: You rightfully equate fashion, architecture and sports with art. Are you also a keen art collector?
JG: I love contemporary art. I have important pieces but my creative energy and financial resources have been channeled into my house. I consider it a kind of art. It hasn’t left me with enough purchasing power to collect.
AFH: What are your goals with the current extension of your house?
JG: It is less an extension than a whole separate complex. It will combine a tennis court, office, guesthouse, nightclub, entertainment terrace, theatre and library. It’s an immense project. Its been going on six years and still continuing.
AFH: What do you think fashion weeks outside Paris, London, Milan and New York have to offer?
JG: They are a good time, and I go for the pleasure of the experience. The shows aren’t up to the caliber of Paris, Milan and London, but they are well-done. I get the added enjoyment from the attention everyone gives me. The designers, models and press are really warm to me. It’s a terrific experience.
AFH: What were your impressions of Berlin’s fashion scene when you attended Berlin Fashion Week?
JG: Last summer was my first time visiting berlin. I had no idea what to expect. There was no pre-planning and no notice, but I had a fantastic time. Besides enjoying the shows, the parties were great. The media attention paid to me made it wonderful. I usually only attend Moscow, Milan and Paris in winter. It is basketball season and I am not a fan of the cold. But I will be back in Berlin for the summer.
[Images: James Goldstein at his Los Angeles residence by Aaron Hawks for berlin fashion journal ]
