When he’s not dominating the airwaves and co-hosting Live With Kelly and Ryan, Ryan Seacrest is emerging as a major player in the fashion space. The founder of Ryan Seacrest Distinction—and the entrepreneur behind skincare line Polished by Dr. Lancer—explains!
What inspired you to get into the menswear space?
As American Idol grew in popularity in the early days, I had increasing access to great stylists who really educated me about fit and fabrics. I was also fortunate to develop a close relationship with Christopher Bailey, the head designer of Burberry at the time. His suits fit me so well, it was hard not to have a growing appreciation for a great-fitting suit’s design, construction, and materials. From there, I started to pay more attention to fashion, as well as to product design, architecture, art, and food. The more I learn and see, especially in my travels, the more my curiosity grows. We were approached by one of our licensing partners, Randa Accessories, early in 2013 about potentially starting a line. From there, the concept grew into reality. We’ve learned so much since we launched Ryan Seacrest Distinction in 2014.
How do you describe the brand’s aesthetic?
Men’s fashion today is versatile and accessible. We’ve embraced this versatility in my line. We design classic, iconic looks with a contemporary eye. Masculine signatures, geometric shapes, proportion, texture, pattern, and color are all combined in unexpected ways to deliver a men’s collection that’s timeless and flexible. You can wear our looks for work or date night.
What did you think was missing from the market?
At the time, I think we believed that in men’s career dressing in department stores, especially at our exclusive partner, Macy’s, there lacked any outside new contemporary brands. Much of the tailored floor was occupied by brands that were more than 20 years old.
Heading into NYFW, what’s your favorite look for fall?
I’m starting to see a lot of interesting textured and patterned knitwear, and I really like how it’s made its way into tailored clothing looks. Also, we now have active fabrics in most of our apparel.
How did you initially meet Dr. Harold Lancer?
I was a patient of Dr. Lancer’s for more than 10 years, and we became friends and often talked about potentially building a business together.
What resonated with you about his approach?
Dr. Lancer believes that taking care of your skin should be a priority, in whatever wellness program you embrace. I’ve trusted him with my skin, and used his effective products for exfoliating skin first, before you cleanse, for more than a decade. He knows everything you need to do to keep skin healthy and looking great. I also credit him with helping to keep me young.
What was your skincare regime like before you met him, and how did it change after working together?
Like most men, my skincare regimen was basically nonexistent before I started going to Dr. Lancer. I’m embarrassed to even say this, but it basically involved soap and water. Every once in a while, I’d use whatever products my girlfriend had on hand. I didn’t know what I was putting on my face and the long-term effects it was having on my skin. Then, I met Dr. Lancer and he started educating me about the benefits of skin health and how it can improve your overall wellness.
What was the concept behind Polished by Dr. Lancer?
Dr. Lancer and I talked about the lack of skincare products formulated specifically for men’s skin. Men tend to be lazy on the beauty front; we don’t like to change things up too much. So we came up with this solution for the modern man who wants more from his routine. We made sure each product targets men’s specific needs, in a way that’s simple, effective, and affordable.
What makes the products unique?
In a nutshell, it’s the science and experience that Dr. Lancer brings to these products. He’s the best at what he does and that’s basically what this is—it’s his wisdom in a bottle. He had his hand is in every formulary process, so you know you’re getting a final product that’s made with high-quality ingredients that’s backed by science. I also tested every product and made my friends tell me what they wanted, like making sure our moisturizer had SPF and that it wouldn’t drip when you sweat.
How are they distributed?
You can buy each product from our line online at polishedbydrlancer.com and on Amazon.
What’s your favorite product in the collection?
The Daily Micro-Scrub is probably my favorite to use, especially on Monday mornings after a full weekend.
Why do you think men pay more attention to skincare these days?
I think it has to do with the change in culture. Men are more comfortable and educated about the benefits of investing in their own wellness, and this includes skincare. The selfie culture has probably helped, too. I think it’s a great thing that guys are becoming more comfortable with putting their best face forward—no pun intended.
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