Men of Style: Talking Shantaram, seafood and surfing with Toby Huntington-Whiteley

The model and personal trainer opens up during a Clements & Church suit fitting

Just like his older sister Rosie, Toby Huntington-Whiteley is also a model. Represented by Select Model Management, he’s appeared on the covers of Elle Russia and JÓN magazine, been, featured in Essence and GQ and starred in campaigns for Luca Faloni and Emporio Armani.

But modelling isn’t his only job — Toby is also one of London’s most in-demand personal trainers, working at one of the city’s leading boxing studios, Kobox, and recently joined the writerly ranks of Gentleman’s Journal. You can find his words of wisdom on body fat percentage here and discover why alcohol is ruining your workouts here – read on for an insight into his stylish life…

toby huntington whiteley
toby huntington whiteley

When travelling, what do you always pack?, On all my recent trips I’ve been packing the Polaroid camera that my 3-year-old niece got me for my birthday.

Two- or three-piece?, Three-piece.

Double- or single-breasted?, Double.

Oxfords or monkstraps?, Monkstraps.

Best car you’ve ever driven?, Jaguar Project 8 – it’s the most ridiculous car.

What would you call your yacht?, Gillian, after my granny.

toby huntington whiteley

Who is your biggest inspiration?, My little sister, Florence, for her brave spirit.

What is your favourite film?, Life of Brian – it’s a family favourite.

Last track you played on Spotify?, House of Cards by Radiohead.

What is the last book you read?, I know I’m late to the party but I’ve nearly finished Shantaram and it’s blown my mind.

Surfing or skiing?, Surfing, I feel the most at home when I’m by the ocean. My dream would be to surf every morning before work.

Favourite city?, I’m not a massive city person. I grew up in the countryside and miss it every day I’m in London. The last city I visited was Lisbon, I had heard great things but it still exceeded my expectations when I was actually exploring for myself.

toby huntington whiteley
toby huntington whiteley

What do you order at a bar?, Negroni before dinner, Old Fashioned after.

What food could you not give up?, Without a doubt, seafood. There’s so much variety and some of the best meals I’ve eaten have been in Europe by the coast sharing seafood with friends and family.

Favourite wine?, I’m certainly no wine aficionado but I do appreciate a decent bottle. I try and look for organic and even biodynamic where possible. I went to visit Chateau Fonroque near St Emillion last year and was completely sold on the biodynamic values and methods. I bought a case of their 2012 which is lovely.

Where would you retire?, Lege-Cap Ferret on the west coast of France. The beaches are unbeatable for me.

What quote to you live by?, “Less is more” – except when it comes to food.

What does true men’s style mean to you?, Uncontrived.

Men of style: Talking books, music and getting suited and booted with Sam Way.

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Further reading