Robert Gigliotti is half of the LA duo behind “home decor icks,” the TikTok series where he and Ethan Gaskill rack up millions of views on the design crimes everyone’s committing — grommet curtains, the $12k bubble sofa, the color-coded bookshelf. He learned his eye growing up in Connecticut, where his mom flipped houses and he got sick of every one coming out builder-gray. Two years ago he quit his 9-to-5 to model and make content full time. Currently, he’s decluttering — honing in on things to keep in his next place as per a new rule: every single piece has to be something he truly loves. Here, he talks veneers, vintage denim, and why playing it safe is the only real decorating mistake.

What’s your hot take?

Casual is my default 90% of the time, but if there’s a reason to step it up — a wedding, Coachella, whatever — I’m going all out. Life’s way too short to play it safe when you actually have a reason to dress up. Or throw themed dinner parties with your friends and commit to the bit. It’s the best!! People play it safe too often.

What’s an item you can’t live without?

Vintage denim, I can collect them forever and a new perfect pair always reinvents the way I dress.

Three places you’ve felt inspired by?

The beach, probably because it’s where I clear my mind and think most creatively. Restaurants in Le Marais, Paris, because they’re never overdone. Casual yet fancy, effortless yet chic (LA, take notes). Alias Books in Atwater Village for its amazing selection and simple vibe, just good art, no fuss, and completely authentic.

What’s the worst recommendation you’ve gotten?

A dentist suggested veneers. I could never do veneers. There’s something so charming about an imperfect smile that feels real and lived-in.

Who is your forever inspo?

Nineties David Beckham is my forever inspo, masculine with a feminine touch, always unexpected, and constantly evolving his hair.

Write us a fortune cookie.

What you project is what you attract.

Follow Robert on Cosmos and Instagram.