AJ Dee opens up to MEGA Man about his life’s latest chapter in Norway, offering insights into the endeavors that he has pursued since he gracefully exited the showbiz scene
Life’s a journey of discovery, and for AJ Dee, stepping out of the showbiz spotlight marked the beginning of a fresh chapter. You might better know him as a celebrity, host, and even as Enchong Dee’s brother, but Angel James Dee III is now etching his name onto the fabric of men’s fashion. Unveiling a new identity, he’s more than just a familiar face; he’s a force in his own sartorial right.
In an exclusive interview with MEGA Man, the former Filipino actor opens up about his life now in Norway, his strides in men’s fashion, and his invaluable advice for guys shaping their unique style narrative.
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Life after the limelight
“Since I decided to live abroad, I put a chapter ending to my showbiz career and pursued to find a new passion for me, which landed in styling,” Dee revealed. However, his grasp of men’s fashion wasn’t a newfound fascination. Even before his Norwegian adventure, he had carved a niche with his style blog, The Filo Dapper, enlightening men on various dressing styles.
“I found myself being lost in the rabbit hole of classic menswear.”
AJ Dee reflects on how moving to Norway helped him discover a new interest.
Relocating to a new environment often carries a sense of disorientation. Yet, for the 40-year-old gentleman, it evolved into an opportunity for self-discovery. Recounting the turning points that ignited his interest in fashion, he singled out his initial foray into the world of made-to-measure craftsmanship in Oslo. “After that, it’s just been learning and training in the art of tailoring,” he added.
From scenes to seams
Beyond crafting fashion content, AJ revealed that he’s taken the entrepreneurial plunge. Not only does he serve as an agent for the acclaimed Italian tie brand Paolo Albizzati, distributing it to various men’s boutiques across the country, but he’s also the man behind St. James Oslo, his very own tailoring venture launched in 2019, specializing in semi-bespoke garments for discerning clients.
A gentleman’s narrative
Prior to immersing himself in the field of menswear, AJ Dee described his style as a versatile mix—no specific niche, just riding the waves of what was new and trendy. There was a lack of a distinct personal touch—just a blend of street, preppy, and dapper influences. However, like many men, he found inspiration in other style icons. For him, it includes the likes of Simon Crompton, Cary Grant, the Duke of Windsor, and Gary Cooper. Fast forward to today, Dee continues to captivate his audience with his looks that seamlessly blend his classic menswear expertise with his own unique style.
His sartorial staples
When asked about the key essentials for the wardrobes of men who admire his style, AJ generously shared his insights. His advice? Stick to the basics. He emphasized the necessity of a classic navy suit, versatile enough to seamlessly transition from formal events to lively parties. Adding a sports jacket to the mix is also helpful, whether it boasts a pattern or sticks to a solid color palette like navy or olive green. Footwear-wise, Dee recommends a pair of dark brown or black oxford shoes to accompany the suit for formal affairs. And for those laid-back moments, he suggests a lineup of sweaters, Oxford shirts, jeans, and khaki chinos as a man’s dependable casual essentials.
Dapper decoded
Wrapping up our discussion, AJ shares five style tips for men still navigating their fashion journey. First, he advises against blindly following celebrity trends, emphasizing the importance of understanding your environment—whether at work or in leisure—to ensure your attire is fitting. Second, he discourages settling for convenience, urging men to explore the vibrant world of colors, textures, and patterns instead of defaulting to black. Third, he places a spotlight on the crucial importance of a well-tailored fit. Fourth, he advises steering clear of loud brand displays on clothing, opting for a more understated approach that stands the test of time. And finally, he recommends investing in quality garments—not necessarily from luxury brands, but pieces crafted with precision and premium materials as a commitment to a timeless and enduring style.
Photos: AJ DEE (via Instagram)
