656-660

*Chapter 656: Conflict of Interest*

"So, what you mean is that I should be your stylist and subtly integrate my clothing into your daily outfits, thereby naturally conveying a certain image?"

"Bingo."

"So, compared to direct advertising, this kind of subtle influence can change people's impressions of fashion on a much wider and deeper level."

"Exactly."

"In other words, being a brand ambassador builds a brand image; but if the brand assists you by embedding itself into your image and lifestyle, it shapes your personal image."

This time, Anson didn't give a definite answer—

As expected, Eddie was smart enough to grasp the essence of the matter right away.

In the former scenario, Anson depends on Dior, appearing as their spokesperson. In the latter, Dior and countless other brands depend on Anson, relying on his image and taste.

At its core, this is a reversal of control.

Although Anson painted a dazzling picture, quietly shifting the focus, Eddie still caught the key point.

Finally, the conversation was back on track.

However, Eddie had already understood the scenario that Anson had laid out.

Eddie looked at Anson, speechless. "You sound like a con artist."

"Eddie, don't you have any confidence?" Anson countered.

Eddie remained calm. "Isn't that exactly what you are?"

Anson nodded. "True. But at the same time, if I successfully establish my personal brand image, then Dior and I can both benefit more from our collaboration. You wouldn't even need to pay me an endorsement fee to reap the rewards. In the long run, this is a win-win situation for us."

Indeed, even if Anson and Eddie's friendship could withstand this test, Dior was a large brand, a major company. They couldn't trust such a partnership based on mere words. They needed a contract in black and white; they needed to measure both risks and benefits. Mere promises wouldn't cut it.

"Haha." Anson burst out laughing. "Hahaha."

Eddie thought for a moment. "You just mentioned styling. What's that all about?"

Eddie was momentarily at a loss for words.

Eddie was stunned—

After a slight pause, Anson smiled. "Eddie, the way you put it, I sound like the bad guy."

"Haha." Anson laughed out loud. "Eddie, you can also look at it from my perspective."

Anson continued, "You should believe in your talent, and you should also believe in our friendship."

But Eddie wasn't buying it. "Instead, you're able to create your own brand image. In the long run, that's where the real benefit lies."

"If you choose to give up, not only will you have no income, but you'll also have to bear the costs and the risk of the plan failing."

So, Anson was very frank.

This is the truth.

His mind racing, Eddie stared at Anson. "But the premise is that once your brand image is established, you'll still choose us, even without a contractual obligation. By that point, we have no leverage. We might even have to beg you to wear our designs."

However, Anson didn't think he could fool Dior. He wasn't the only smart one.

"If I choose to renew my contract with Dior, I can earn endorsement fees and enjoy full sponsorship from Dior, increasing my exposure."

Although Edgar thought this was an impossible plan and Anson knew the idea was a bit crazy, they had still reached this point.

Anson didn't let the joy get to his head; he seamlessly got to the point. "Simply put, it's Anna Wintour's job."

Eddie: ...

His jaw dropped slightly, clearly taken aback by Anson's words.

A trace of a smile appeared in Anson's eyes. "The difference is that Anna Wintour leads mainstream fashion, while I am entirely focused on myself, creating my own brand, my own style, my own image."

"So, all you need to do is put together different looks for different occasions and interpret a fashion image."

"Of course, you can choose Dior's clothing, but at the same time, you need to explore other possibilities, choose other brands, or different styles."

To Eddie's ears, the message was crystal clear: this is Anna Wintour's job.

What seemed insignificant suddenly became high and mighty.

But Eddie shook his head gently. "You definitely can't let Anna know you described her job this way, or she'll blacklist you entirely."

Anson laughed heartily. "Haha."

Then Eddie continued, "If I take on this job, does that mean I have the final say? For example, if I want you to wear Dior at the 'Catch Me If You Can' premiere instead of another suit that fits the character's vibe better?"

"Of course." Anson didn't hesitate.

Eddie, "And if I want you to ensure that at least 30% of your outfits during this promotional period come from Dior, that's not a problem?"

Anson chuckled softly. "You're being kind. I thought you'd demand 50%."

Eddie's expression remained blank. "So, are you saying I can ask for 50%?"

Anson raised his hands in surrender. "30%, no problem."

Eddie lifted his chin slightly, looking enlightened. He didn't rush to continue but let his thoughts surge in the air. There was no sign of panic on Anson's face, which made a slight smile appear in Eddie's eyes.

"Anson, I can't take this job."

Anson was stunned—

Progress was positive and smooth; how did things take a sudden 180-degree turn?

Even Anson was caught off guard.

Seeing Anson's unhidden surprise, that previously confident and self-assured look cracked. A smile crept into Eddie's eyes, but his character and upbringing kept him from mocking Anson. Instead, he calmly explained.

"Because of a conflict of interest."

"Anson, I initially thought the point was to shape your image, and to do so, we'd have to sacrifice Dior's interests. You're asking me to do something terrible."

"But now it seems the decision is in my hands. I can decide your look for crucial moments, like premieres, the Golden Globes, and the Oscars. If I want, I can have you wear Dior for all major occasions, still using you to benefit Dior."

If Eddie could see it, how could Anson not?

Anson spread his hands, looking completely open. "Eddie, we're friends. I don't intend to embarrass you at Dior, nor do I plan to make you betray Dior. See, I'm still a loyal friend."

Pfft.

Eddie chuckled softly but quickly regained his composure.

"But I can't."

"I represent Dior, so I must consider Dior's interests. But I'm also your friend, and I can't betray your trust. If I take this job, I'll need to sincerely create a fashion image for you."

"But."

"What if Dior's CEO pressures me? What if they say you must wear Dior at the Oscars, or they'll fire me?"

Anson didn't hesitate. "Then I'll wear Dior. I trust your design."

Eddie, "I also believe in my talent. My clothes won't make you look bad at the Oscars. But I can't use this as leverage against our friendship, nor can I lack professional ethics by being biased toward my designs. I can't do it."

Chapter 657: Persuasion Failed

"...I can't do it."

A simple sentence, yet it reveals Eddie's pride and dignity.

This talented designer, who is usually proud and arrogant, has quietly hidden his sharp edges. He appears gentle and introverted, but in reality, he is strong and resilient.

Anson...sighs softly.

For a moment, Anson truly believed he could persuade Eddie, but he didn't expect that after going around in circles, he still failed in the end.

"Eddie, I'm disappointed." Anson looks at Eddie with a sad face.

Eddie coughs awkwardly, his head lowered, stiffly avoiding Anson's gaze. "Anson, we have a conflict of interest. You always represent yourself, and I have to protect Dior's interests. If we cooperate..."

It's not fair to Anson, and it's not fair to Dior either.

But Anson doesn't let Eddie continue, raising his hand to stop his friend. "I know, from the beginning, this was asking too much."

"So, am I on Dior's blacklist now?"

A playful tone naturally flows out, even without any gestures.

Eddie's smile becomes more apparent. "Although I can't take this job, I can introduce you to someone who is more suitable than me."

Not saying it doesn't mean not knowing.

Anson, "No problem."

However, Anson doesn't.

After a slight pause, Eddie sees the mischievous smile on the corner of Anson's mouth and realizes what's going on. He looks at Anson with a helpless expression, but in the end, he can't help but smile.

So straightforward and decisive, Eddie is taken aback. He thought Anson would joke or even decline.

After all, Anson is currently very popular, not just because of "Spider-Man," but also a beloved figure in the fashion world. Once it's known that Anson and Dior haven't renewed their contract, other brands will surely swarm in like wolves and tigers, hoping to become Anson's stylist for the year-end awards ceremonies.

Eddie immediately catches the humor in Anson's words and chuckles. "It's okay, I'll make the introduction, but you don't necessarily have to hire him. Or you can give him a trial period, and if you're not satisfied, you can fire him anytime, don't worry about me."

Eddie is stunned, showing a bit of worry and panic. "Anson, things aren't..."

Both exposure and discussion are guaranteed.

Anson shrugs lightly. "Sorry, I couldn't renew the contract with you."

Anson sighs softly. "Eddie, you really, really, really don't want to take this job, huh?"

Anson raises his eyebrows slightly. "You should know I'm very picky and strict, right?"

Eddie can't help but look up at Anson, a hint of helplessness in his eyes, but the corners of his mouth lift slightly. "How could I not? If I pass on the news of your intention to terminate the contract, the marketing department might panic and fly from Paris to Los Angeles overnight to talk to you in person."

Anson exhales dramatically.

"Honestly, for the Golden Globes and the Oscars, can you wear Dior?"

And if Anson is willing, he could totally use this as leverage to maximize his own benefits.

Judging from the details in their conversation, Dior probably wants to renew the contract with Anson, and Eddie is here to persuade him. But now, the cooperation hasn't succeeded, and Eddie also knows Anson's follow-up plan, which means Dior will be back to competing with other brands.

One can imagine the pressure Eddie will face.

At least Anson can extend an olive branch, sending a signal to slightly ease the situation for Eddie and Dior, repaying Dior for the miracle they created for Anson.

Eddie is somewhat touched.

But Anson changes the subject. "It just so happens that I also need to maintain my relationship with Dior. After all, I'm still looking forward to Dior sponsoring me in the future."

A little joke, half-true, half-false, lightens the mood again.

...

Melvin Bailey takes a deep breath, pressing his racing heart, using all his strength to control the urge to turn and leave. The chaotic thoughts in his mind keep screaming, unable to quiet down. Until the last moment, he is still unsure -

Unsure if this is the right decision.

Melvin, a fashion buyer, works for fourteen high-end fashion boutiques in London, Paris, and New York. His task is to constantly travel to major fashion weeks, connect with designers and brands, keep an eye on fashion trends, and purchase various designs to stock the shelves of these boutiques.

In simple terms, he uses his fashion taste to shape the image of these stores.

It's a demanding job, constantly traveling around the world. On the surface, it looks glamorous and fashionable, and outsiders express their envy. But just like Hollywood's fame and fortune, the glamour people see exists, but it's only the tip of the iceberg. Beneath it are countless ants struggling to climb the ladder. Their lives are no different from ordinary people's, and might even be more chaotic, uglier, and worse than a 9-to-5 life.

Under the glamorous robe crawl countless fleas.

In fact, Melvin's dream is to be a designer and have his own product line, even a fashion brand.

But it's not easy.

More accurately, it's very, very difficult.

A week ago, Eddie Slimane, a friend Melvin has known for over a decade, introduced him to an opportunity - to be Anson's personal stylist.

Melvin's first reaction was to refuse.

From a fashion buyer to a personal stylist, no matter how you look at it, it seems like a step backward. Moreover, it completely cuts off his path to becoming a designer, as fashion buyers can still interact with various brands, designers, and boutiques, while personal stylists can't.

Melvin spent ten years finally establishing connections and reputation in the fashion buyer field, and his clientele finally reached double digits. Now he's asked to give up his job and become a personal stylist. No matter how you hear it, it sounds like a foolish, money-losing deal.

Besides, what kind of job is a personal stylist? Why does it sound like an assistant, with no rights, no personal time, no autonomy? So far, there's no such professional job in the fashion industry. It sounds like an experimental position for newbies to become guinea pigs.

So, is he really ready to give up his ten years of hard work and switch to a completely new and unknown field?

However, Eddie has a different perspective.

"Treat Anson as your own creation, build a brand based on your own ideas and creativity. Although it's not clothing, not real design, it's a concept, a philosophy, showcasing your understanding of fashion, like a true work of art."

"Such an opportunity is once in a lifetime."

"Moreover, the subject is Anson. You should know Anson's influence, the spotlight on him is unimaginable."

"What's more, I'm only responsible for the introduction. Whether you can get this job depends on you. Anson is not someone who can be easily manipulated."

"You may look down on this job, but in my opinion, this could be the most important opportunity in your career."

Melvin is unsure.

After struggling and hesitating, Melvin finally shows up to apply for the job.

However, standing at the door, Melvin is still conflicted, his mind in turmoil.

Stopping his steps, with a turn, Melvin still wants to leave.

Chapter 658: First Meeting

Hesitation. Struggle. Tug-of-war.

Melvin knew he was acting like an idiot, standing at the doorstep yet still unable to make a decision.

However, he's always been like this.

Before making a decision, he hesitates repeatedly, constantly questioning and overturning himself. It's a process. But once he makes up his mind, he never looks back, wholeheartedly going all the way.

That's why family and friends always say he's too extreme.

But that's just how he is.

And now, it's the same.

On one hand, he tells himself this is indeed a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and maybe Anson Wood could be a turning point in his career.

On the other hand, he can't help but worry that this change might ruin all his efforts and trap him in an irreversible predicament.

Go left, or go right.

Raising his head, Melvin is about to look around when he sees a figure approaching—

Finally, Melvin comes back to his senses, waving his hands repeatedly to indicate he's fine.

He shouts, that smile making it impossible to look away yet also unable to look directly.

Can someone explain why a football is here?

Melvin: ???

Subconsciously, like a turtle retracting its head, he grits his teeth and waits for danger to arrive.

From afar, across half the street, comes a sunny reminder. Melvin, immersed in his thoughts, is completely caught off guard, unable to react, even unsure if the other person is calling him.

He needs inspiration, a sign.

Then.

"Hey, watch out."

But.

Shouting from afar, bathed in sunlight like Apollo, this makes Melvin slightly stunned. He's thinking about what to do—

"Sorry."

Bright, cheerful.

"Didn't control my strength just now, it went off course, almost caused an accident. Are you okay?"

So, watch out for what, a UFO?

His stiff muscles relax, and Melvin finally regains control of his body. He turns his head and sees... a football that has rolled halfway and stopped.

Involuntarily, Melvin forgets to continue his search, his gaze naturally following that figure.

Nothing, nothing happened.

Young, energetic, a bright smile blooming perfectly on the corner of his mouth. Sweaty, flushed cheeks, golden sunlight like mischievous elves jumping and playing hide-and-seek among the golden-brown curls. The world suddenly brightens, blooming right before his eyes.

Wait, football?

"That's great, can you throw the football over?"

Football? He's not familiar with it.

More accurately, all sports have nothing to do with him.

So, how should he throw a football?

In that brief moment of hesitation, the figure doesn't continue shouting but takes action, jogging closer.

The footsteps stop not far in front, picking up the football himself.

"Sorry, obviously, there was almost an accident just now. I shouldn't have asked you to pick up the ball, I could have just run a few steps myself. Ha, see, things are much simpler."

While talking, he lightly tosses the football and catches it again.

Melvin finally finds his voice. "I'd like to help, but honestly, I know nothing about football, I don't know what to do."

"Haha, I don't know either, just playing around here, fooling around. Shh, keep it a secret, the fact that I'm using a football as a baseball, it's our secret, no need to tell others."

Looking at the face in front of him, a smile creeps onto Melvin's lips again.

Without waiting for Melvin to speak, the figure doesn't intend to stay any longer, turning to leave. Melvin feels a bit anxious and can't help but call out.

"Anson..."

It's Anson standing before him.

In the past six months, Anson's exposure has been incredible. His handsome face is plastered all over North America. It's the audience who haven't seen "Spider-Man" that are the minority. It's conceivable that they've already seen Anson's various looks and expressions.

However, Anson at this moment is still unfamiliar, still refreshing.

Wearing a San Francisco 49ers jersey, white sports shorts, skateboard shoes with long socks, he exudes youthful vigor and vitality. He's not like the nerdy Peter Parker, nor the gentleman from fashion magazines.

The same face, but with a subtly different aura.

At first glance, Melvin is already deeply impressed, inspiration flooding in.

But after calling out to Anson, Melvin's mind goes blank. He doesn't know what to say, it was just a subconscious action.

Then, Melvin squeezes out words from his throat.

"Styling, work, ready..."

Keywords popping out one by one, Melvin doesn't even know what he's saying.

But Anson actually understands. "The personal stylist interview, right? It's happening inside, you can just push the door and go in."

Melvin: ???

What does that mean?

The person in charge of the personal styling job is right in front of him, the decision-maker is right there - playing football. How is the interview inside proceeding, and who is he supposed to style for? Is everything really okay?

Looking at Anson, Melvin is completely confused. But Anson doesn't stop, turning around and running back, continuing the passing game with another figure.

Leaving Melvin standing there alone, bewildered.

Uh, this... so, what now?

Melvin stands there in a daze for a moment, his gaze drifting towards Anson—

He swears he has no interest in any ball games or sports, let alone participating, he doesn't even have the interest to watch.

During his childhood, his father always looked forward to playing catch with him, which seems to be the romantic fantasy of most American fathers. But he was completely uninterested, and after two attempts ended in falls, his father finally gave up in despair.

But at this moment, Melvin finally understands. The pleasing sight before him is not just a face or a figure, but a return to primal instincts - running, exerting strength, competing. A passion burning in the air, stimulating adrenaline, feeling the rhythm of life's pulse.

Then, Melvin turns and pushes the door open—

Don't misunderstand, he's still not interested in sports, it's just because of Anson, because of the completely different temperament and charm Anson displays.

He thinks maybe he should give himself and Anson a chance.

So, before he realizes it, Melvin is already inside.

A standard boutique, with a fitting room in the center, surrounded by circular racks overflowing with clothes.

And, it's quite large in scale.

One layer, two layers, three layers... If he's not careful, he loses count because the colors of the clothes all clash together, making it dazzling.

At a glance, there are at least seven, maybe even eight layers.

Like a maze.

At this moment, two people are already busy inside, seemingly selecting clothes.

Wait, there are other competitors?

Eddie didn't tell him about this.

Chapter 659: Interview Questions

Wait, there are other competitors?

Melvin's first reaction is to leave in a huff.

He thought he was special, he thought his abilities far exceeded this job, he thought they should be ecstatic to welcome him if he agreed to give it a try, he thought he was the only candidate.

However...

He was wrong.

His pride and confidence hit a wall; things were completely different from what he imagined.

Such a job, and there are actually other competitors?

Actually!

So, what does this mean?

"Melvin, this is an opportunity. Trust me, I understand Anson; at the same time, I also understand you. For you, this is both an opportunity and a challenge."

Eddie's words echoed in his ears again.

Phew.

Melvin takes a deep breath and doesn't leave—

So, it's almost impossible for men to stand out in their styling at premieres and award ceremonies.

Melvin also skillfully takes out his business card and exchanges it. "Melvin Bailey. Yes, I'm here for the interview for Anson's personal stylist position."

Moreover, Melvin notices two details.

Maybe competition is a good thing, Melvin's fighting spirit is ignited. Indeed, he's a maverick, an oddball, a difficult neurotic, but his pride and confidence aren't baseless arrogance. He believes in his professionalism and talent, one hundred percent.

That was before, things are different now, Dior menswear has emerged, hasn't it?

Maybe some people would be confused:

"Good afternoon, I'm Edgar Cook, Anson Wood's manager. May I ask if you're here for the personal stylist interview?"

This means they need to create a premiere look for Anson, and in the end, Anson will try it on and showcase it, choosing the winner.

A man approaches, smiling and handing over a business card.

First, Edgar didn't look at his business card. Either Edgar already knows his background, or his identity simply doesn't matter.

Even a white suit is rare on such occasions, as are gray and blue.

Edgar makes an inviting gesture. "Welcome, thank you for coming. The interview has already begun. Please choose an outfit for Anson to attend the 'Catch Me If You Can' premiere. If you have any questions, feel free to ask me."

His personality, once he decides, ten horses can't pull him back.

Second, the other two competitors stretched their ears to eavesdrop for a bit, but then quickly returned to their tasks, no longer paying attention to them—

It's very likely they have the same interview question.

So, this is the interview question.

Melvin doesn't think so.

He will prove his talent.

Since he has already pushed open that door, he wants to see the results.

Remember?

But... that's it?

To be honest, just like award ceremonies, men's styling for premieres is basically a three-piece suit, and the color is often black—

Men's fashion is indeed on the rise, and Dior is leading the trend, but Dior can't be the answer to all men's fashion. Otherwise, if the red carpet is filled with only Dior, that would also be a disaster. Besides, the red carpet is not suitable to be a fashion stage. Even if men try to showcase their taste, it's usually not at premieres or award ceremonies.

However.

Edgar's question is precisely about premiere styling.

Of course, compared to award ceremonies, there's slightly more room for creativity at premieres, occasionally even allowing men to not choose a suit. But it's still a minority, after all, being too unconventional isn't good either—

No one wants to steal the spotlight from the movie.

Things aren't that simple.

Taking a deep breath, regaining his composure, Melvin's brain starts working at high speed:

What did Eddie say about this job?

It's not that Eddie might reveal any secrets, but Melvin believes that with Anson's intelligence, the details must have been communicated beforehand. It's up to them to discover them and ultimately stand out from the competition.

See, Anson is currently outside playing football, completely relaxed and carefree, seemingly unaware of the ongoing interview inside.

Melvin doesn't think this shows Anson's indifference towards this matter. On the contrary, this is Anson's way of sending signals. Eddie has repeatedly said that Anson is very smart, and working with him is always easy and enjoyable.

So, the details—

Personal stylist. Movie premiere. Personal fashion image.

Melvin stands there, not rushing to start, then, a flash of inspiration strikes his mind.

"Mr. Manager."

"Just call me Edgar."

"Edgar, may I ask, what kind of movie is 'Catch Me If You Can', and what kind of role does Anson play in it?"

Edgar glances at Melvin. The two people who are busy nearby also perk up their ears slightly, but after hearing Melvin's question, they both turn their heads away, no longer paying attention.

Melvin has no direct connection to the film industry, but it's also part of the entertainment industry, so he naturally has heard about it.

In 2002, the connection between fashion and film is not strong, mainly staying at the level of award ceremonies and premieres. The cases of actors becoming popular through fashion styling are also few and far between—

Like Jennifer Aniston, like "Sex and the City."

Currently, the general view in the fashion industry is that styling is just styling, related to the actor, not to the movie or the character.

However.

Call Melvin a layman, but he believes fashion shouldn't be separated from film.

For example, "Star Wars" and "Sleepless in Seattle," one a sci-fi movie, the other a romance, the fashion styles for their premieres can be completely distinguished.

"The Terminator" and "Blade Runner," although both are sci-fi movies, their styles are vastly different, and the actors' fashion styles can also showcase different colors.

The same applies here.

After all, the styling they're creating is for Anson to attend the movie premiere, not a talk show, not a fan meeting, not a media roundtable interview. It's purely for the premiere.

Moreover, Melvin hasn't forgotten one thing, the key point Eddie emphasized:

Treat Anson as a brand, build a fashion image, a fashion style around him, truly make Anson a fashion icon.

In other words, it needs characteristics, it needs color, and at the same time, it needs to break existing rules and frameworks.

So, what should Melvin do?

The first step is to treat the actor as an actor, highlighting the actor's personal colors.

For example, at the movie premiere, showcase the charm between the actor and the character, break the fourth wall, and bring a brand new experience.

So.

Melvin doesn't rush. Within the scope of his consideration, he tries to delve into the movie and the character as deeply as possible, even asking about Anson's interesting stories on set and his experience during filming—

After all, ultimately, Melvin is styling for the real-life Anson, not for the character Frank Abagnale Jr. in the movie.

For a while, the atmosphere becomes a bit strange.

Melvin doesn't seem like he's here for a personal stylist interview at all. Like a reporter, he stands aside chatting with Edgar, in a deep interview mode.

Strangely, Edgar doesn't urge him either. There's an old friends' vibe between the two, enjoying the conversation.

Is this really okay?

Chapter 660: Covert Struggle

The atmosphere felt slightly strange.

Sam Austin finally couldn't bear it any longer. He deliberately bumped into the clothes rack, causing the hangers to collide with each other, creating a clanging sound that broke the silence, expressing his protest in this way.

In Sam's view, that gentleman wasn't playing fair. His behavior clearly showed he was trying to get close to Edgar, hoping to win the job through connections. While he, an honest person who wasn't good at socializing, was obediently relying on his skills to compete.

He truly despised such behavior.

The noise caused a slight disturbance.

Sam noticed the gentleman's gaze and glared back without showing any weakness, indicating with this gesture that he wouldn't back down easily.

However.

The gentleman's expression remained unchanged, as if he hadn't noticed Sam's protest at all - or maybe he had, but he didn't care.

He calmly looked away and continued his conversation with Edgar.

Sam: ...

But Edgar was right there. If the other person chose the same style as him, he needed to claim ownership, to prove that he was the first one to think of it, so he displayed it again.

Sam noticed the guy's scrutinizing gaze. His first subconscious reaction was to turn around and hide it, but then he thought again and deliberately showcased his outfit.

Everything went as expected.

How should one define an Armani suit? Orthodox, upright, handsome. Just look at the Italian football team's World Cup look this summer.

Anger simmered in his chest.

Maybe they didn't notice the details at all; maybe they noticed but it wasn't enough.

He felt a lump in his throat, as if he could hear the sound of his alveoli bursting.

He chose a Dior suit.

Damn it.

Sam cursed silently. He hated this kind of people the most, their faces thicker than city walls, lacking skills, yet always able to get opportunities. While honest people like them, who clearly had the skills but weren't good at socializing, flattering, or brown-nosing, always ended up empty-handed.

Melvin looked away, refocusing—

He himself was also a traditional gentleman, largely focused on his work. After choosing the suit, he continued to pick out accessories like ties, cufflinks, and watches, not paying much attention to Melvin. It was clear he believed men's fashion still relied on accessories to complete the look.

Originally, Sam was worried that the other person would plagiarize, blatantly stealing his ideas, so he wanted to hide.

Thinking of this, Sam straightened his back slightly, confidence surging in his chest.

The other competitor had studied Anson in detail, including his usual dressing style, so he believed Anson was a young man at the forefront of fashion.

One competitor seemed to have roughly inquired about the movie, like the plot synopsis and the cast, so he believed Anson was a traditional gentleman.

Moreover, even if the styles were similar, the final test was still taste and details. In fashion, copying wasn't difficult, but imitating the essence wasn't easy.

He chose an Armani suit.

Then.

Finally, that guy finally finished his conversation, joined the group, and started selecting in front of the racks.

Dior, Dior, it was indeed Dior. Now the whole world knew that Anson had given Dior its soul, and when Dior was worn on Anson, it was simply different.

And no one forgot that Anson's first appearance on the premiere red carpet - "The Princess Diaries" - was also in Dior. Even if others forgot, people in the fashion industry wouldn't. At the same time, they hadn't forgotten that Anson also wore Dior to the "Spider-Man" premiere.

On the positive side, wearing Dior for the third consecutive movie premiere proved the close connection between Anson and Dior. It was a safe choice. But on the negative side, this was a personal stylist interview, and such a safe choice missed the best opportunity to showcase one's abilities.

Obviously, the person who made this choice seemed to realize this too, feeling a bit uneasy, so he kept secretly observing and sizing up others.

Just now, he even glared at Melvin fiercely.

Melvin was completely confused, unable to understand the other person's intention: You've already chosen a Dior suit, which is equivalent to Eddie Slimane helping you with the styling, so what else are you scouting for?

However, the other person seemed to sense a crisis too and didn't stop selecting. He started with accessories like belts and cufflinks, skipping Dior and choosing other brands, trying to showcase his abilities.

Melvin didn't care about this.

Observing others was a way to know oneself and the enemy; at the same time, constantly adjusting his own plan to avoid overlapping with others. He didn't want to be a copycat.

Looking away, Melvin already had an idea.

If he had to choose between the two competitors in front of him, Melvin would choose Dior.

Armani was suitable for Steven Spielberg, for Tom Hanks, for Christopher Walken, and maybe also for Anson. But overall, the cut was still too generic and old-fashioned.

Simply put, Anson should be more youthful.

In Hollywood, Armani was a choice that would never go wrong. If you didn't know what suit to choose, an Armani suit could always solve the dilemma. But precisely because of this, Armani had become a conservative entry-level option, making it difficult to break free and interpret one's own style.

In contrast, Dior represented youth, rock and roll, individuality, and vitality. There was a reason why Anson could make Dior shine.

So, if he had to choose, Dior was indeed the more suitable option.

Melvin even suspected whether that competitor had snatched Dior first, forcing the other person to helplessly choose Armani to avoid repetition.

But Melvin still didn't think Dior was the right choice.

The root of the problem wasn't in Dior or Anson, but in "Catch Me If You Can"—

The key point of this interview.

In "Catch Me If You Can," Anson played a character who was constantly taking risks and committing crimes, yet always unable to let go of the longing for family warmth deep down.

On one hand, he was young and energetic.

On the other hand, he was also traditional and conservative.

It was a contradictory temperament, being too adventurous wouldn't work, nor would being too conservative.

Therefore, Melvin believed that the "Catch Me If You Can" premiere should take an unconventional approach and make some bold attempts.

Moreover, Melvin remembered a detail.

Eddie said to build a fashion brand around Anson, not just for the premiere, but for every occasion Anson appeared in, showcasing different styles.

So, did this mean that the premiere was just the first step, and Anson would also attend fan meetings and other promotional events in other cities? Then, could these occasions be an extension of the premiere red carpet, comprehensively showcasing Anson's charm as an actor and as a character?

Edgar didn't mention this in his words.

But Melvin wanted to take a risk, to make more attempts and challenges. This was also his first reaction when he saw Anson just now:

Changeability. Different possibilities.

Just like how the main character was playing football outside at this moment, daring to break conventions.

Creak.

The door opened again, and a bright and cheerful voice came through. "Hey, are you ready?"