One Outfit For Life is a clothing related project asking the question; ‘If you could only wear one outfit for the rest of your life, what would it be?’
The idea explores why we gravitate to certain looks; outfits that work for the various aspects of our life—work, home, hobbies, going out with friends—, whilst also reflecting our unique personalities. In this series, we ask people of different styles, professions and ages to think about what they wear and why one outfit is the best fit for their life and why each interviewee came up with their particular outfit ahead of all other available choices.
Here we speak with Joe Farage, Founder of Australian tailoring brand Farage, about the ability of a black suit to take you through the day, from the office to a meeting, then on to dinner or an evening out. Joe reflects the flexibility of the suit and the way a simple change of shirt or footwear is enough to shift the mood completely; from polished and formal, to understated and relaxed.
You can follow on Instagram at OneOutfitForLife.
If you could only wear one outfit, what would it be and why?
A black Farage double-breasted pure wool suit, made from Australian wool woven in Biella, Italy, worn with a cashmere knit and black boots. It strikes the ideal balance between precision and ease: sharply tailored, yet entirely comfortable. The double-breasted cut gives it presence, while the softness of the fabric keeps it relaxed. Its versatility is what makes it indispensable. With a shirt and tie, it becomes formal and commanding; with a T-shirt or fine knit and sneakers, it takes on a more effortless, contemporary character.
How does this collection of clothes allow you to move between the various aspects of your life?
It gives me a wardrobe that can adapt without losing its identity. The same suit can take me from the office to a meeting, then on to dinner or an evening out. A change of layer or footwear is enough to shift its mood completely; from polished and formal to understated and relaxed.
Describe this style:
Modern, restrained and quietly confident. I’m drawn to a strong silhouette, but never at the expense of comfort. The aim is tailoring that feels considered rather than conspicuous: sharp enough to make an impression, relaxed enough to feel natural.
List what you are wearing:
Farage black double-breasted pure wool suit in Australian wool, woven in Biella, Italy and cashmere knit.
Rolex Submariner watch
G.O.D glasses
If money was no object, what is the ultimate version of this outfit?
A beautifully constructed cashmere suit. There is something compelling about taking one of the most traditional forms and rendering it in a fabric known for softness, warmth and luxury. It would retain the authority of tailoring while feeling almost weightless to wear.
What is the origin of this look for you?
It comes from years of wearing tailoring and learning what gives a suit its character. I’ve always appreciated the clarity of a great black suit, but my interest has evolved beyond appearance. I’m increasingly drawn to the way a garment feels on the body; how the fabric moves, how the cut holds its shape and how the construction supports the wearer.
Fabric, cut and craftsmanship are fundamental. The finest clothes are those that become instinctive the moment you put them on.
How do you feel when you wear this?
Confident, comfortable and prepared for whatever the day brings. A well-cut suit changes your posture and gives you a certain sense of composure. The goal is to feel elevated without feeling disguised. Simply like the best version of myself.
Imagine you were put in charge of designing a capsule wardrobe based around your style. What would it comprise?
It would centre on exceptional tailoring, natural fabrics and a relaxed approach to dressing. I’d include a black suit and a navy suit, an unstructured jacket, tailored trousers, fine knitwear, crisp shirts, well-cut T-shirts, a substantial coat, black boots and a pair of clean sneakers.
Every piece would work with the others, allowing the wardrobe to move seamlessly from day to evening. Nothing overly trend-driven, just beautifully made clothes with enough character to become more personal, and more compelling, with time.
