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The frontman of New York-based musical outfit Chromeo, Dave 1, also known as David Macklovitch, is as well-known in style circles for his spot-on sartorial approach as he is for his band's electro-funk beats.

This week, the Montreal musician cemented his tastemaker status with the launch of a capsule collection that he co-designed with the Canadian men's e-tailer Frank & Oak.

"When it comes to style, it's not about being prescriptive," Macklovitch says, pointing to the collaboration's focus on clean, tailored basics that can be styled in any number of ways.

The well-priced, 18-piece line (prices start at $30) builds on what Macklovitch considers key items in his own wardrobe, including worn-in tees, tight white jeans and superslim jackets. Recently, the well-turned-out, well-travelled guitarist told Globe Style what else tops the list of his favourite things.

Rimowa luggage

I travel a lot, and I'm a carryon kind of guy because I like to travel with my essentials. I have a black Rimowa suitcase (the Salsa Deluxe 32" Multiwheel model is shown above) and this crazy Margiela duffel bag. You can put everything in that duffel. You could fit a short girl in there.

Skinny jeans

They have to be Dior, 17.5 centimetres wide – that's their skinniest cut. I never, ever wash my jeans. There are two things men should never wash: Their hair and their jeans. You just wear them, wear them, wear them. And when [your denim] starts to stink, you put it in the freezer.

Bottled water

It's so corny to say water, but I really just drink water. Fiji water. Fiji all the time. I rarely drink [alcohol].

A good cream wax

I use Kiehl's Creative Cream Wax [for my hair]. When I learned that it was discontinued, I found the only online place that still had it and bought $1,000 worth. According to my calculations, I should be good till September.

Brazilian design

I love Sergio Rodrigues. He is the greatest mid-century Brazilian designer and a hero of mine. He's like the Eames of Brazil. I have his Mole chair (right); it's my favourite piece of furniture.

Ray-Ban sunglasses

Wayfarers (above) are all I ever wear and have always worn.

Adult footwear

I haven't worn sneakers since 2000. If you're a man over the age of 30, you can't wear sneakers unless you're a rapper. I only wear boots and my favourite brand is Saint Laurent.

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