A Renaissance Man

WORDS BY HEIDI JOHANNSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY DALE MACMILLAN MODEL MANFRED ZUECH

“Trends are not of interest to me. It’s my own style; I can find things anywhere.”

— Manfred Zeuch

Manfred Zeuch is the principal conductor of his curiously orchestrated life. From birth, music and art filled his soul, a cerebral symphony to be performed and studied.

Born in Guatemala, raised in Brazil and holding a PhD from the University of Strasbourg, France, his worldly experiences unveiled an appreciation for everything aesthetically pleasing with an attentiveness to the way people dress. His influences run deep in the 18th century. There’s a respect for the long waistcoat, linen ruffled shirts, bold colours and of course, ‘un foulard’ (scarf). For Manfred Zeuch, it remains important to keep true to oneself. “Trends are not of interest to me. It’s my own style; I can find things anywhere. It’s about how I feel in my clothes.”

Adora Hat - Personal Collection Suit - Simons Zeuch’s street style is an expression and nod to Italian fashion. Inspired by art, he naturally gravitates towards colours that work well together.

This Renaissance Man can be seen enjoying the spoils of nature with one crucial fashion accessory, his walking stick. Zeuch enthusiastically shares that there was a culture associated with canes. They were used not out of necessity but as a symbol of wealth and refinement. A gentleman had to procure licenses for the privilege of carrying canes. For Zeuch, it’s about exploring new terrain. Life is never boring, especially when your wardrobe pieces are as eclectic as your hobbies. ▶

The Art of Perfumery - a delicate selection of notes inspired by travel and nature

Conner Hat - Personal Collection Pants - Moores Vintage Wool Coat - Brazil Leather Briefcase - Brazil Foulard (Scarf) - Custom Leather Gloves - Simons Sunglasses - Zenni

Inspired by his wife’s interest in essential oils, Zeuch zealously dove into the art of perfumery. Travelling to Grasse, France in 2018, he received his diploma from the House of Galimard. A maestro, he developed his signature scent, Route du Soleil. “It’s a composition, a delicate selection of notes, a harmony. There is no gender in perfume.” He continues to make dozens of new configurations with a variety of aromatic notes inspired by travel and nature. “When I taste something, I don’t necessarily want to look up the recipe. I think - I will do this on my own. It’s the same with smell, I recreate that afterwards.” ▶

Denim - H&M Shoes - Stacy Adams Suspenders - personal collection Fashion Tip: Ties and pocket squares, belts and shoes don’t have to match. Wear what makes you feel good. Dress with thoughtfulness and purpose.

Perfume House of Galimard - Route Du Soleil signature scent composed by Manfred Zeuch Couros Do Sol Leather Jacket - Brazil Adora Hat - West Edmonton Mall Necklace - Triskelion from personal collection

FujifIlm X100 Digital Camera - McBain Camera Watch - Bulova Beaded and leather layered bracelets - personal collection from travels Rings - Concordia University Signet Ring, Sterling Silver band from local Farmers’ Market, silver and gold band from street market in Brazil

Leather Briefcase - Bugatti Suit - Tip Top Tailors Non traditional colour pairing of tie with pocket square - combining green and pink representing the Mangueira Samba School in Brazil Shoes - Calvin Klein Solar Powered Watch - Seiko

Professionally, Zeuch brings his ‘joie de vivre’ to Concordia University of Edmonton as Vice-President, External Affairs & International Relations - a position that shines a spotlight on the university for its global audience. He’s emphasizing the importance of intellectual and artistic movement in this modern age of enlightenment, wherever his travels may take him.