In his previous life, Anson had tried different jobs and positions, meeting all kinds of people with varying personalities, backgrounds, and circumstances.
He had made mistakes before, acting out of youth and inexperience, making wrong judgments and choices. But all those mistakes became part of him, and as he grew older, his way of handling similar situations naturally evolved.
This moment was no different.
Even though Anson couldn't fully understand the man in front of him—he wasn't a mind reader, unable to hear the other's thoughts—he could grasp the main point of their conversation.
Hedi Slimane.
That was likely the man's name, so he was introducing himself and trying to offer Anson some styling advice.
Not everyone likes a stranger stepping in and giving unsolicited advice, including Anson. However, Hedi didn't come across as presumptuous or condescending; he was merely offering a suggestion. This made it easier for Anson to accept the advice calmly and openly, even considering exploring the ideas further.
Anson thought to himself that this Hedi was quite a unique guy.
"Anson Wood."
In the spirit of reciprocity, Anson extended his right hand graciously.
Hedi hesitated for a moment, looked up at Anson, and after a brief pause, took Anson's hand. But what he said next was filled with confusion.
"I know you."
Anson: ???
Although last week's episode of "Friends" had garnered some attention, Anson didn't think his name was widely known yet. So what was this about?
Wait, could he be a paparazzo?
Thoughts raced through Anson's mind, but before his imagination could run wild, a familiar voice called out from nearby.
"Hedi!"
"When did you arrive? You didn't even call to let me know."
Darren entered the scene.
With a beaming smile and a relaxed demeanor, Darren seemed quite familiar with Hedi, though he kept his distance and didn't extend a handshake.
"Hedi, this is Anson. It looks like you two have already met. So, what do you think? Do you have any suggestions for his style?"
"You're the professional here; we're all ears."
"Anson has his own sense of fashion, which, in my opinion, is quite impressive. You should have seen how he turned heads when he arrived today in his outfit—caused quite a stir. But the next event is a bit sensitive, so I believe a professional opinion is crucial."
With Darren's entrance, the atmosphere instantly became more lively.
But Anson noticed something peculiar—Hedi seemed to retreat into his shell, maintaining a polite smile while subtly increasing the distance between them.
It was almost amusing.
Seeing that Hedi wasn't planning to speak, Anson turned to Darren and asked, "Uncle Darren, is he a friend of yours?"
Darren lightly tapped his forehead, "My bad. Anson, this is Hedi Slimane, currently the creative director at Saint Laurent. He's the one who designed the groom's suit for the wedding of the century."
The wedding of the century?
Wait, does that mean the groom is Brad Pitt?
So, Darren invited the designer of Brad Pitt's wedding suit to help Anson create a look that would rival Pitt's grand entrance at an important moment?
How... fascinating.
Does Hedi even know?
The so-called "nameless man" turned out to be not so nameless after all. Saint Laurent? So, we're talking about the luxury brand Yves Saint Laurent (YSL)? And he's the creative director?
Did this really require such elaborate efforts?
Darren's expression remained unchanged, as if completely unaware of the intricate connections at play. "I've met Hedi a few times privately, and he's provided our production with quite a few fashion tips and pairings, so I thought maybe you could use some professional advice."
A subtle smile appeared in Anson's eyes as he glanced meaningfully at Darren.
Just as Anson was about to speak and play along with Darren's little act, Hedi abruptly interrupted the flow of conversation.
"He's doing just fine."
Hedi's words immediately drew everyone's attention to him, and he seemed a bit reserved.
"I mean, he has his own style, his own perspective, and he knows what suits him. Plus, he's got great proportions. I think he can experiment with different styles. I don't think he needs my help."
Anson smiled.
Now, everything started making sense.
He held up the pair of pants in his hand. "I think you've been a great help. I'll definitely give it a try."
Hedi didn't smile but gave Anson another once-over. "I know you like loose, comfortable styles, which suit you very well—there's a Mediterranean vacation vibe, relaxed and sexy. But sometimes, you might want to try something sharper."
Anson lifted his chin slightly. He couldn't deny that he tended to prefer casual and easy-going outfits. "How sharp?"
The comment had a double meaning.
Anson made a playful remark.
Darren didn't react, but Hedi chuckled, "Not sharp enough to cut your finger, but something more tailored, more fitted. Your brow and nose structure are excellent; they can highlight a different kind of look."
"Proportion and line. That's my fashion philosophy."
"When it comes to proportion, you're already doing great. That French tuck is a nice touch."
Following Hedi's gaze, Anson looked down at his T-shirt, where the hem was slightly tucked into his jeans.
Anson suddenly understood. "So that's a French tuck."
Hedi gave a slight shrug to confirm. "The French tuck adds a casual, relaxed vibe, preventing the outfit from looking too stiff. It also improves the proportions, avoiding a short and stocky look caused by a long top."
"People often overlook such details, but in fact, these details are key to the overall visual effect."
"And as for lines."
"I think your look could use some lines."
Anson was about to respond, but Hedi, noticing where Anson's gaze had shifted, quickly explained, "Not this time."
"Darren said this occasion doesn't require anything too formal or intense; you need something more relaxed. So, I..."
His words trailed off.
"But next time, maybe next time we can try it out. I have some ideas."
Unconsciously, Hedi began scanning Anson up and down again, with a thoughtful expression on his face.
"I've got some inspiration; I think it's worth a try."
It was clear from his words that Hedi had slipped back into a mode of talking to himself, not really expecting a response.
Darren seized the moment. "Maybe next time Anson does a magazine interview, we can invite you to handle the styling."
Hedi looked up, "Me? No way, they can't afford my fees unless it's *Vogue*."
Without hesitation, Hedi bluntly rejected Darren's suggestion, proving once again that his social skills were lacking. Darren had only mentioned it in passing, but now that Hedi had seriously declined, the atmosphere turned awkward.
Hedi remained oblivious. "But if he's interested, he can visit Saint Laurent sometime, and I can select and design some outfits for him."
Professional. Focused. Dedicated.
Maybe not the best with social cues, often unintentionally offending others, but without a doubt, he had his strengths.
Darren didn't mind, though. He just laughed and turned to Anson, shrugging lightly, "Sorry, kid, at least I tried."