Tom Riley, partner and director at P. Johnson, shares his insights on how to build a wardrobe that will endure in today’s ever-evolving fashion landscape.
Johnson, a Sydney-based tailor and clothier founded in 2009, has become a staple of minimalist fashion. With a global presence spanning showrooms in New York, London, Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, the brand is renowned for its exquisite bespoke tailoring and ready-to-wear collections. Its made-to-measure suits showcase traditional Italian craftsmanship, honed at the Sartoria Carrara atelier in Tuscany, where meticulous attention to detail and soft, elegant structures come together to create exceptional sartorial pieces for discerning gentlemen.
At the core of it all is a clear vision of fashion—creating a timeless wardrobe, as shared by Tom Riley, partner and director of P. Johnson, during the brand’s recent trunk show in Jakarta, Indonesia.
DAMAN: Hi Tom, how excited are you to showcase P. Johnson collections here in Jakarta? What kind of reception are you anticipating from our fashion scene?
Tom Riley: I’m thrilled to be back—we’ve been coming to Jakarta for nine years now. It already feels like a second home to us. We’ve always focused on helping people build wardrobes rather than encouraging fast fashion. That’s why we emphasize creating cherished, long-lasting garments that remain relevant for years to come.
DA: Could you share the story behind P. Johnson’s establishment and the inspiration that became the foundation of the brand?
TR: Patrick Johnson—who is also my best friend and the brand’s namesake—started the business in 2008, right in the middle of the global financial crisis. We met while studying together many years ago and were both passionate about clothing. I joined Patrick in 2009 and we started as a made-to-measure tailor. Today, we encompass the entire wardrobe. Our vision has always been the same: to help people dress better, feel better and take a tasteful approach to dressing.
DA: And can you also share some insight into your role at P. Johnson and how you and Patrick work together to bring your vision to life?
TR: My main role is training people. We take a hospitality-focused approach to running our business—more like a hotel or a restaurant than a traditional retailer—built on a foundation of beautiful clothes. Our tailoring background gives us a deep understanding of fabric quality and construction. As Australians, we take a more lighthearted approach to fashion, which our clients appreciate. Our passion for clothes often inspires customers to engage more thoughtfully with their wardrobes.
DA: In your view, what characteristics are essential for exceptional tailoring?
TR: Fit and comfort are crucial. There’s a misconception that tailoring needs to be strict, but it’s actually more lively when it’s beautifully soft and organic. Tailoring shouldn’t just represent formality or business—it should harmonize with the rest of your wardrobe while being practical.
DA: How do you think does the collections of P. Johnson reflect those qualities?
TR: It’s all about fabric choice and our approach to color. We encourage clients to choose colors that complement their complexion and integrate seamlessly into their existing wardrobes. This versatility means our pieces stay relevant longer rather than quickly losing their appeal.
DA: What strategies do you use to keep P. Johnson relevant and fresh in today’s fast-paced, competitive fashion industry?
TR: We always make clothes we’d wear ourselves—pieces that hold their place in the wardrobe and feel timeless. We’re not aligned with fleeting fashion trends, which gives us creative freedom. We find inspiration from our travels and incorporate new ideas while staying true to our vision.
DA: As this is an Australian-born brand with Italian roots, how do you blend these cultural influences to shape P. Johnson’s identity?
TR: P. Johnson has always been deeply inspired by Italy. The Italian approach to clothing—softness, freshness and character—resonates with us. Patrick also trained in the U.K.; so our style reflects a blend of influences without being bound to any single tradition. Essentially, we take inspiration from diverse sources, while still maintaining our own unique perspective.
DA: How does the concept of conscious fashion shape P. Johnson’s overall design identity?
TR: We create valuable, long-lasting pieces, which is an inherently low-waste approach. Even our ready-to-wear collections are produced in small quantities, allowing for thoughtful planning. Furthermore, we also keep our team small, employing only those who are passionate and highly skilled.
DA: Do you have any styling tips for gentlemen looking to stand out with their own flair?
TR: Dressing well is about being comfortable and making a statement. Simplicity is key—mastering the basics allows your natural confidence to shine through. When you focus on timeless, understated pieces, you’ll always look effortlessly stylish.
DA: If someone were to invest in three P. Johnson pieces, which would you recommend?
TR: I’d suggest a relaxed pair of pale chinos, a light blue Oxford shirt with a soft collar and a versatile navy blazer. These foundational pieces are elegant, practical and can be styled in countless ways.
TEXT Jessica Esther