You can’t miss his blonde hair and statuesque figure. While David Mercer is best known in the fashion and hair industry as Director of TONI&GUY Hairdressing, the man is also a hardcore party animal and socialite, and has been seen gracing numerous parties about town, as well as appearing in many editorial and fashion spreads, including one for agnes b. last year.
What is your current state of mind?
Focused.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
I have always aspired to be a rock star!
What is your biggest achievement?
Building TONI&GUY, a company with incredibly talented individuals.
What inspires you?
Positive people. To succeed in life, it is important to be positive in one’s thinking, attitude and approach towards life.
What personal trait do you appreciate the most in others?
Passion, direction and a belief in oneself—regardless of the obstacles in life.
Do you have a cause or do you support one?
The awareness of AIDS, education and understanding of the HIV infection. At our recent 10th Anniversary event, the TONI&GUY team raised a staggering $20,000, and all proceeds from the night were donated to Action for AIDS (AFA). The objective of the charity event was to raise much needed funds, and reach out to a wider community with higher levels of public exposure.
Which living person do you admire most and would like to invite for dinner?
Definitely my mother. She has been my source of inspiration, support and strength in life.
What are you reading?
Nick Knight, Showstudio.com.
How do you spend your Sunday mornings?
Double shot macchiato, the gym and relaxing with my family and my mad dog.
What is your idea of hell?
Negative people.
What is your guilty pleasure?
Ben & Jerry’s Chunky Monkey ice cream—an entire tub with my daughter, India Scarlett.
How do you recharge?
A good workout session at the gym.
What’s playing in your iPod/MP3/CD player?
Black Rebel Motorcycle Gang, Starsailor and Babyshambles.
What do you collect?
Memories.
Where would you like to live?
In a postmodern house overlooking the ocean somewhere in Southeast Asia.
What is your favorite item of clothing?
A black T-Shirt.
What accessory sets you apart?
My Harley.
What about you scares others?
Black clothes, blonde and six foot two.
If you had to play a character in a movie, which movie and which character?
Johnny Depp in Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.
What did you believe at 18 that you wish you still believed now?
Father Christmas and the tooth fairy.
