While music is the main priority for Buffalo band London Vs. New York, fashion is a close second. With their penchant for leather, striped v-necks, and some pretty awesome tats, the band easily gets my vote for Best Dressed.

London Vs. New York got their start in 2006, when lead singer Stephen Goss organized a practice with a few guys he knew who had been playing throughout the city. “We hit it off right away. We came up with a few songs in our first practice that we still play,” he said. Nick Gordon (guitar/vocals), Chase Middaugh (bass/vocals), and Tim Staszak (drums) complete the outfit, whose punk/rock and roll sound is best listened to blasting from your speakers.

As far as the band’s musical inspiration, Goss stated that he can be influenced by nearly anything, from a voice talking on the radio, to artists such as the Talking Heads. “I’ve also spent a lot of time watching David Bowie videos, just seeing how he connects with the crowd. I think the way you look at the crowd, your stage presence, is really important,” Goss said.

When it comes to fashion, the band has been heavily influenced by typical style icons like Mick Jagger and Bowie, but also Gucci designer Tom Ford. “I would like to raid Tom Ford’s closet. He would probably have some pretty sweet suits stashed away in there,” Goss said, adding that style is very important to the band: “It’s part of who we are. It’s a more basic expression of our selves than the music itself.”

The band likes to stick with the basics when performing onstage. For Goss, a v-neck t-shirt and a pair of jeans make up his typical stage outfit, along with a nice pair of shoes. “I think shoes are key. Shoes will somehow give me unusual confidence,” he said. And Goss’s shoe of choice? Tod’s Chelsea boots.

“I think that’s kind of the game today for fashion in general,” he said. “People find something high-end, like a Gucci belt, and mix it in with something like torn-up beater jeans.” Goss’s take on style is both simple and easy on your wallet.

For more information on London Vs. New York, visit their website, londonvsnewyork.com.