Joe says “it’s difficult to make a mistake if you stick to a formula and err on the classic and conservative side.”The Kyu
How would you describe your style? Classic,understated and refined.
What is the oldest thing in your wardrobe? A double-breasted Burberry overcoat from the ’70s. I collect vintage Burberry overcoats – they don’t make them like they used to – and vintage Barbour (waxed) jackets,which become more beautiful with age as they develop a patina.
And the most recent addition?A bespoke jacket three years ago. I’m content with what I have,I don’t feel the need to make new garments all the time,only when I fall in love with a certain fabric or style. It’s impossible for me to buy off the rack,so everything I make for myself takes time and a lot of consideration.
Do you make most of your clothes? Ninety-five per cent. The only things not made for me are underwear,sportswear,vintage wear and some quality knitwear I bought in Italy many years ago.
Joe opts for Santa Maria Novella’s “Russa” cologne.Supplied
What would you wear …
… on a first date? A white shirt and jeans,optional jacket depending on the season,and leather shoes.
… on a plane? A Uniqlo tracksuit and Nike sneakers.
… on the red carpet? A classic single-breasted black tuxedo with a patent leather loafer.
What’s your favourite fashion era? I have fond memories of the 1990s,when I became old enough to enjoy menswear. It was when the designers brought out their own suiting ranges. Giorgio Armani’s black-label suiting was groundbreaking – very drapey and soft. Gianni Versace incorporated gold buttons and Medusa motifs on black suits that draped beautifully. And Ralph Lauren did an elegant,’50s-inspired look.
Do you have a favourite fashion designer? Gianni Versace. When I first saw his collection in the ’90s it was mind-blowing;I was saving every penny to buy something.
What’s your fragrance of choice? Santa Maria Novella “Russa” cologne.
What are three essential items in your wardrobe? A white shirt,navy jacket and dark-brown leather shoes.
Any go-to jewellery? A gold and onyx signet ring made by my wife,jewellery designer Jeanne Kang.
Can you remember a favourite outfit from when you were a child? No. My clothes choices were made by my mother until I was 13 and moved to the US from South Korea.
And your worst fashion mistake? You always dress better in hindsight – I can look back and criticise my look from five years ago – but it’s difficult to make a mistake if you stick to a formula and err on the classic and conservative side.
Joe’s fashion icon is Prince Charles,an “extremely elegant” gentleman,“which every guy should aspire to be”.Getty Images
What was your first fashion moment? It was back in the ’80s when I saw the first flush of Ralph Lauren Polo – the short-sleeve polo shirts and shorts. I was only 11 but I fell in love with that look.
What’s on your wish list? I’m looking for a vintage gold Patek Phillipe “Golden Ellipse” watch. The game is to find one from the 1960s or early ’70s in original condition.
Is there a current fashion trend you like? I like that more people are getting into vintage clothing,going back to classic style. I like the idea of recycling clothes and contributing to sustainability very much.
What shoes do you wear most often? Bespoke leather loafers and lace-ups made by my shoemaker in Rome.
Do you have a favourite fashion icon? Prince Charles. He’s extremely elegant and he’s a gentleman,which every guy should aspire to be.
What do you wear on a typical working day? With the trend towards going more casual,jeans with a shirt and jacket rather than a suit.
And your favourite off-duty,casual Sunday look? Jacket,shirt and jeans – exclusively TCB Jeans,a Japanese brand specialising in a vintage Levi’s style.
is based in Paddington.
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