Style Profile

Gunnar Nordstrom, owner, Gunnar Nordstrom Gallery 

Back in Bellevue, where it all began, this local art guru reveals his other passions, including sport coats and comfy shoes.

Photo by Gabriel Choy

What he’s wearing: Jones New York black gabardine suit, Nordstrom white cotton shirt, eyeglasses by You’s (purchased in the Netherlands) and Rolex watch (because “Bellevue used to be ‘blah’ and now it’s more ‘bling’”).

Describe your personal style in three words. Middle-aged contemporary. 

What is your daily uniform? Twenty-five years ago when I started my business in Bellevue, I wore a coat and tie every day. Then, working in Kirkland for eighteen years, I was able to get away with the “beachy” look of cotton slacks, Top-Siders and Tommy Bahama shirts. But my recent move back to Bellevue has me in nothing less than a suit or sport coat and tie daily. I am enjoying being a grownup again. 

What are your favorite local places to shop? Nordstrom and Mario’s, when I’m feeling flush. I also have a top-secret budget-minded store — the name of which
I will not disclose — which I visit when feeling not-so-flush.

Who is one of your style icons? I’ve always liked David Letterman’s double-breasted look with light-colored socks and low vamp loafers. Perhaps the fashion world would disagree, but I like the look.

What is the most daring item of clothing in your closet right now? An Armani tight-knit T-shirt. It will never be worn.

If you could splurge on one item, what would it be? A pair of black Martegani or Ferragamo loafers. They are the most comfortable soft leather shoes I have
ever owned.

Who makes up your style “pit crew”? My favorite barber is Zoey Brumm at Salon Zo in Kirkland; Valentina’s in Bellevue does all my alterations.

What golden rules about style did you inherit from your family? When in doubt, always overdress; find a good laundry for your shirts; own a blue blazer; and always keep your shoes shined.

Speaking of families, is there any relationship to that famous department store? There’s no relationship — they only take my money — but the name works well to score me a window seat in restaurants.