As a child there was no place for adventure or experimentation. I guess that kind of freedom started in high school with punk rock. That's what enlightened me to not being afraid to express myself.

I really never even seriously considered a book but a few years ago someone approached me out of the blue and I said I would think about it.

I thought the Made in America men's wear push was a big revolution in terms of smaller companies taking charge, but it seems like it's gotten out of control.

When I was a kid I was very particular. I was actually beyond particular. I would iron my money and spray it with Polo cologne.

Basically for everything that comes out of Five Four, I've come up with the idea or changed it in some way. I'm also working with Putnam Accessory Group, a private label hat manufacturer. I'm in the process of re-branding a line they have called Chuck. It was mostly hats and bags, but I'm adding apparel and eyewear and whatever I feel like adding to turn it more into a brand. I'm supposed to be working with Pharrell on Billionaire Boys Club, but that's on hold.

There are too many brands. You can start your own brand from your bedroom. It's a good thing and a bad thing.

As a child there was no place for adventure or experimentation. I guess that kind of freedom started in high school with punk rock. That's what enlightened me to not being afraid to express myself.