Boston Common - Niche Media - A side of Boston that's anything but common.
Issue link: http://www.ifoldsflip.com/i/259813
They've been a couple for 12 years, and it has been 18 since they first met, but if you ask Ricardo Rodriguez and Michael Kelley (ON LEFT) about the story, expect this response: "You have to ask Ricardo," says Kelley. To which Rodriguez replies: "I might tell you the story after a bottle of tequila." It's an uncharacteristic display of reserve for a couple that is known for its take- no-prisoners style. Rodriguez, a realtor as well as the former creative director for fashion designer Daniela Corte, can be seen in metallic camouf lage jeans one day and a black tux jacket the next—in broad daylight, and quite possibly with a strand of pearls. "I am not afraid of challenges, and when it comes to what I wear, the same rule applies. Anything goes." With Kelley, the founder of the concierge service hiremelocal.com, the vibe is more New England prepster. "I care about how I look," the Revere native says, "but I want to be approachable." Perhaps if a bottle of tequila is involved, we can finally learn the story of how they first met. What are you wearing tonight? R R: Theory suit, H&M white shirt, Daniela Corte black lace T-shirt, Louis Vuitton shoes, and brooches by Chanel, Patch NYC, and Lanvin. MK: Red Raleigh denim jeans from Barneys, Alexander Simai T-shirt, vintage satin smoking jacket, Dries Van Noten scarf, and Bodega Converse First String sneakers. What's your style? MK: Thanks to Ricardo, improved! I think I am urban preppy. R R: What I choose to wear is for my own enjoyment. I am open to anything. I could go from super formal work attire to shorts over leggings in a minute. I like a surprise. Describe each other's style. R R: He is very relaxed—a prep with a West Coast inf luence and a sprinkle of hipster. MK: Whimsical, chic, impeccable, and fun. What do you love about each other? R R: The key for us is that we are good friends, first and foremost. MK: He is the most caring, loving, thoughtful, and generous person. He loves and is loyal to family and friends. He springs out of bed in the morning excited to tackle every day. Your philosophy on life: R R: The sky is the limit. MK: Treat everyone as you would like to be treated, and a smile usually meets a smile. NEW ENGLAND MEETS NOUVEAU Ricardo Rodriguez and Michael Kelley share a groovy joie de vivre. THIS PAGE: MALE MODEL (BACK LEFT): JACKET ($595) AND SHIRT ($175), THEORY. SAKS FIFTH AVENUE, THE SHOPS AT PRUDENTIAL CENTER, 617-236-3100; SAKS.COM. JEANS, JOHN VARVATOS USA ($198). BLOOMINGDALE'S, 225 BOYLSTON ST., 617-630-6000; BLOOMINGDALES.COM. SHOES, PRADA ($480). SAKS FIFTH AVENUE, SEE ABOVE. OPPOSITE PAGE: ON HER: NECKLACE, REBECCA MINKOFF ($198). BLOOMINGDALE'S, 225 BOYLSTON ST., 617-630-6000; BLOOMINGDALES.COM. SANDALS, B BRIAN ATWOOD ($395). NEIMAN MARCUS, COPLEY PLACE, 617-536-3660; NEIMANMARCUS.COM. ON HIM: TIE, TOM FORD ($240). NEIMAN MARCUS, SEE ABOVE 102 BOSTONCOMMON-MAGAZINE.COM 100-107_BC_F_Couplesr2_Spring14.indd 102 2/7/14 5:47 PM