How the perfect suit can change the way you dress forever

Javin They didn’t set out to revolutionize menswear, but his passion and knowledge of bespoke tailoring has made Common Suits a standout name in the industry. 

As the brand celebrates its 10th anniversary, They reflects on his journey, from being a self-taught designer, to becoming the visionary behind a luxury label synonymous with timeless sophistication.  

Whether it’s for a big meeting, a romantic date, or walking down the aisle, his impeccably crafted suits are designed to instill confidence and inspire.

What is the inspiration behind Common Suits?

When I was younger, I only wore suits for interviews and internships. When I was in town, I noticed that men of all ages, from undergraduates like me to those in their 50s, dressed similarly — collared shirts, dress pants, and some in dark suits. It got me thinking about the longevity of this style — a wardrobe staple lasting through 40 to 50 years of a career. That’s when I realized the potential in men’s wear. 

I didn’t have industry experience, but I loved dressing well, and my peers often came to me for style advice. Dressing sharp, staying disciplined, and working out helped me stay motivated. So, I decided to combine that passion with the trends I observed and that’s what led me to Common Suits.

How directly involved are you in the suit tailoring and production process?

Very involved, actually. But back when I was starting out, my gurus were YouTube and the National Library as I hadn’t attended fashion school. When I hired our first few technical craftsmen, we did some trial and error together to figure out what worked (and what didn’t). 

Even now, I’m super involved in the innovation, training, and sourcing of materials. While our talented craftsmen handle the actual tailoring, I remain the driving force behind the product.

What is special about your 10th anniversary?

We have launched a special fabric capsule collection, designed by Common Suits and manufactured by the Italian brand, Loro Piana. Every piece in the collection is a limited edition, making it truly unique to us. It’s a proud moment for us and a wonderful way to mark this milestone.

What makes the perfect suit?

A perfect suit isn’t about technical precision or looking good — it’s about how it makes you feel. It should boost your confidence and help you face the world, even on challenging days. A suit is like armor, a reminder of your potential every time you wear it. If it doesn’t make you feel like your best self, what’s the point?

What are common mistakes people make when wearing a suit?

There’s actually quite a few but one big mistake is buttoning both buttons on a two-button jacket—you’re only supposed to button the top one.

Another is not letting your shirt peek out of your jacket. The right amount is about a finger’s width. There’s a lot more, but I think these two things can make a big difference for most guys.

If you had to wear only one colour for the rest of your life, what would it be?

I’d choose a navy blue suit. It’s a classic. It doesn’t show dirt easily and is versatile enough to pair with dark brown or black shoes, or even dress down with a t-shirt and white sneakers.

But I’d add a detail to it — a soft construction in the shoulders. Heavily padded shoulders look good with a shirt and tie but it can feel out of place if you’re going for a casual look. With soft padding, the suit can work great with t-shirts or polos too.

Could you share with us one item in a time capsule to represent your life right now?

My collection of air tickets and boarding passes. This year, I’ve been flying two to three times a month as we expanded into Jakarta and Bangkok, building on our earlier entry into Manila. It’s not just about growing the brand — it’s about fulfilling the dreams of my team, many of whom have been with us since 2016.

What superpower would you wish to have?

I think I’d choose the ability to pause time. Life moves so fast that it’s sometimes hard to truly appreciate the moment or spend quality time with loved ones. Pausing time would let me enjoy life and be more present.

What do you see as the future of men’s fashion?

In Southeast Asia, comfort and timelessness are key, especially given the climate. The focus is on breathable fabrics, lightweight construction, and classic designs. Our vision is to create suits that people in Southeast Asia can wear comfortably, even in the heat.

What’s your dream project for Common Suits?

The dream is a big one, and maybe a far one — to build an empire of brands, including a ready-to-wear line and lifestyle products like home essentials. The goal is to go beyond clothing, ensuring our customers feel confident not just when they step out, but even in the comfort of their own home. Ultimately, it is to be an integral part of their lives.