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 Jerry Tharapos (Instagram @justjerrydandy) about the joys of dressing up, being distinctive and non-conformist, and why a brown flannel 3-piece suit with a caramel chalk stripe is his choice for One Outfit For Life.
You can follow on Instagram at OneOutfitForLife.
If you could only wear one outfit, what would it be and why?
This is a difficult question to answer because of the process of self-discovery and one’s personal evolution. The Greek philosopher Epictetus said, “Know, first, who you are, and then adorn yourself accordingly”, so for me what I wear is a considered decision and an expression of who I am. However, what remains true throughout the journey, is what I wear is distinctive and non-conformist. It is rooted in classic style and tailoring with a vintage aesthetic. Often, what I wear can be flamboyant but there is a little bit less of that now.
In recent times, I have been drawn to vintage inspired American workwear and even more recently tailored relaxed styles. I am not persuaded by trends or brands and like to be my own person. However, if I had to choose only one outfit, it would be a brown flannel double breasted 3-piece suit with a caramel chalk stripe. Because, it was made for me by a friend, and we were inspired by the 20’s and 30’s. It was a period of beautiful silhouettes and rooted in the decadent and elaborate Art Deco period.
This suit is a one-off piece and therefore bold and distinctive. I love flannels as there is a richness in the texture and the chalk stripe has a commanding presence. Additionally, a waistcoat with a double breasted suit is not done these days, but I think it completes the look.
How does this collection of clothes allow you to move between the various aspects of your life?
A 3 piece double breasted chalk stripe suit is not the most versatile or practical of outfits but in the words of Cecil Beaton, “Be daring, be different, be impractical, be anything than a slaves of the ordinary.” I would couple the more formal style with tailored casual wear and workwear. I always accessorise with a scarf or cravat and complete the look with either a fedora or cap.
List what you are wearing:
3 piece double breasted flannel suit by Andrew Tolley at John Morgan & Co
Shirt: Carnaval Sartoria
Bow tie: Henry Bucks
Briefcase: Rutherfords of England
Fedora: Bates in London
Glasses: CW Dixey & Son
Balmoral boots Joseph Cheaney
Watch: Rolex Daytona with Zenith movement
If money was no object, what is the ultimate version of this outfit?
If money was no object, I’d build a wardrobe of bespoke tweeds, flannels, and checks, Spectator shoes and boots and large brimmed fedora hats.
What is the origin of this look for you?
My look is quite eclectic but rooted in dandyism taking cues from classic British tailoring, coupled with vintage inspired workwear.
How do you feel when you wear this?
I enjoy the process of putting together an outfit. Everything is considered, but not always planned. It is almost always layered and complex which is indicative of who I am. What I most enjoy is that it is particular and singular and unlikely to conform to anyone else. It makes me feel unique.
Imagine you were put in charge of designing a capsule wardrobe based around your style. What would it comprise?
The essence would be bold flamboyant and daring cloths and textures, underpinned with complex layering. Tailored and hand made emphasising the craftmanship of the tailors and makers.
