Fashion designer Martin Grant on why he keeps his wardrobe simple

Each week, we quiz a prominent person about their style and the inspiration behind it. Ahead, designer Martin Grant.

How would you describe your style? It’s very simple. It’s a uniform. I wear navy-blue corduroy pants, a navy T-shirt, a navy crew-neck sweater and either a tailored sports jacket or, if I’m in Europe, a duffel coat. It doesn’t vary much. It’s comfortable – it can be casual, or a
little bit dressed up at the same time. I’ve dressed this way for the last 15 to 20 years.

What’s the oldest thing in your wardrobe? I keep things for a long time, but I wear them to the point where I have to throw them away. The oldest thing I have is probably a classic dress suit in a navy silken wool that I made about 15 years ago. I still wear it.

And the most recent addition? I bought some new sneakers. I prefer not to talk about labels.

What are the three essential items in your wardrobe? A fine navy sweater, a good cotton T-shirt and a comfortable pair of pants. I’m into wide pants now – my favourites are a pair I bought at an op shop on Wilsons Promontory [Victoria] for $1. They’re a type of workwear pant, possibly from the 1950s.

What would you wear … on a first date? My uniform. I don’t change it for special occasions unless it’s a black-tie event. … on a plane? I am often travelling with Qantas, so I do change into the pyjamas. … on the red carpet? A navy suit with a black leather derby shoe.

What’s your favourite fashion era? I like that transition period across the 1950s and ’60s, when it went from couture to ready-to-wear. With people like Yves Saint Laurent doing ready-to-wear collections, it was one of the most exciting periods in fashion.

Who is your favourite designer? The designer I have the most respect for is Azzedine Alaïa. He was a true craftsman – a sculptor, and very hands-on. His techniques were incredible; he worked so beautifully with jersey, leather, chiffon. There are very few people left that work in the way he did.