SLUG Style: Sam Miller

Sam Miller is one stylish son-of-a-gun with a flair that oozes into his mixologist craft! When he’s not slinging drinks at Water Witch or co-owning Remora Bar, he’s expressing his own sense of fashion through education and activism. In Miller’s own words: “Style has power!” Follow him on Instagram at @samson_miller to check out what events and outreach he’s pouring out next.

Every month, SLUG Style features a distinct member of the community and asks them why they do what they do. Exploring more than just clothing, SLUG Style is an attempt to feature the people who give Salt Lake City flavor through personality and panache.

What are your stylistic influences? This could be a band, decade, fictional character — anything.

I started playing music at a young age and my music has always been an inspiration for my style. I was in a punk band in high school, then a hip hop group in college. Band tees, streetwear and some nice sneakers have always been a big part of my wardrobe. 

What are your interests or hobbies? What is the hobby or interest that you have that no one would realize to ask you about?

I have way too many hobbies… but if I had to pick one to surprise people it would probably be tenkara (Japanese fly fishing). My stepdad got me into it about 15 years ago and I love it! It’s very peaceful and meditative. 

How does your personal style intersect with your love for bartending and making cocktails? What do you usually wear when bartending?

Bartending is like being on stage. I always like to look sharp before I’m stepping behind the bar. Working in tropical bars for the last eight years has taught me how to take classic aloha and blend it with my personal style. Tiki is all about escapism — transporting people to a distant tropical paradise. Style plays a huge part of creating this experience. Most nights at the bar you can catch me wearing an aloha shirt, with as few buttons as possible, accented with some gold chains and rings on my fingers. Always with a fresh pair of frames on my face.

What are some of your favorite locally-made beers and spirits? If you had to describe your personal style as a cocktail, what would it be? 

My favorite local distillery is Waterpocket. They make incredible and thoughtful spirits highlighting an amazing variety of herbs, botanicals, and flavors. I also love Fisher Brewing Company and TF Brewing. Their beers are crispy, delicious and I love the vibe. If I had to describe my style as a cocktail, I would pick one of my favorites… the Saturn. A delightful blend of herbaceous gin, tart citrus, tropical passion fruit, nutty orgeat and spiced falernum. It’s balanced, refreshing and crushable. Always leaves you wanting more.

Why do you think having a sense of style is so important, especially as an activist and educator?

Style is how we express ourselves to the world. I love making a statement with my fit, whether I’m trying to amplify a message at a protest or just trying to look fly as hell… style has power! As an educator, looking good gives me confidence while I’m teaching. If I’m looking good chances are I’m feeling good.

Are you always “on” or would someone see you at the grocery store, for example, with less elements of your style?

My routine to start my day is getting ready and looking good. It’s definitely an off day if you catch me looking busted at the grocery store.

What is one item in your closet that you can’t live without?

My Jordans 3s! I’ve always loved sneakers, and I will be building my collection for the rest of my life.

If you had to describe yourself in three words, what would those be?

Passionate, hardworking, genuine. 

How has your personal style evolved over time?

I’ve had many transformations in my style over the years. From punk rock chains, studs and patches to Filas and Rocawear, to pearl snaps and Ariats — I’m always looking for new ways to express myself. As I’ve gotten older, I’m finding new inspiration for my looks. I’ve definitely embraced more of a Western vibe lately. I’ve got a pretty dope bolo collection going. As a Black man, that’s not something you see very often, and I love that. I want to stand out at an event, and blending styles that traditionally don’t go together is one way I can shine. 

If you could give a piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?

Be authentically you every day. If people don’t like it, then that’s their loss. Life’s too short to worry about the bullshit.

Read more SLUG Style features:
SLUG Style: Jaemen Cobb
SLUG Style: Mariel Croft