Our lives shaped by music and style
Daws' Story
I moved to Bournemouth as a young teenager in 1979 and was a bit lost to be honest.My parents had been original West London mods and loved the fashions. The music at that time gave me something to hold on to and maybe even define me.
When did it all begin for you?
Setting Sons. I borrowed a copy from a mate (can’t remember who now!) but just loved everything about it.Fell in love with The Jam. But over the years I became interested more in the 2 Tone Movement which then lead me down a rabbit hole to old school traditional Jamaican ska.
What was the appeal?
Young, raw, emotionally and politically driven energy. I loved the Lonsdale t-shirts, the Fred Perry, dogtooths and my prized blue suede Jam Stage Shoes.
Where would you go in a time machine?
Back to Shepherds Bush in the early 60s. To see the sixties mod bands gigging as they made their names.
What small detail tells you that somebody has good taste?
Despite my Jam shoes I think a smart pair of shoes can tell you a lot about someone and their style. So long as they are clean they can perhaps be quirky but I like a shoe!
Which possession tells us the most about you?
My two scooters. A 1966 Vespa and a 1966 Lambretta - same age as me.
Who would you want at a dinner party?
Terry Hall, Ray Davis, Twiggy, Steve Marriott, Mary Quant.Loved Terry and would want to hear stories of the 60s.
What is something you would change?
I don’t know that I would. It’s a permanently transitioning movement, I think that’s the point of it, isn’t it?Fashions tweak themselves but there is always a “look” even now and sooo much music to explore!
How do we stop this ever dying out?
I don’t think it will. I think it is just different.I see my sons (in their 30s) and they might not dress in what we would say is mod - but they wear loafers, they wear smart trousers, they wear polo shirts and if they take care in their appearance and listen to dance music, I think it remains a way of life.
What is a moment you’d rather forget?
When my Dad told two of my modette friends that they could borrow my parka.I had a real crush on one of them and they were at my house waiting for me when I got home from football.I had to tell them that I didn’t have a parka (then) and all I had was one of those blue snorkel nylon parkas. I wanted to curl up in a ball!
Which three tracks have you chosen, and why?
Thick as Thieves. Love it. Was where it all started for me and takes me back there.All day and All of the Night. My mum was a big Kinks fan and again, fuels my interest for the 60's.Move on Up by Curtis Mayfield. One of my all time favourites, if not the favourite.
Support Midnight Mohair
To help fund the project, we’ve created an evolving collection of original T-shirts, posters and fine-art prints. There’s absolutely no obligation to buy, but we’d love you to take a look.
MIDNIGHT MOHAIR
Designed in Wigan
© 2026 Midnight Mohair