Contrasting Suits of the King and Prime Minister

<This article was originally written in Japanese and published in the evening edition of the Nikkei on November 26, 2022.>

Just a short while after Charles III ascended to the throne as the King of the United Kingdom in September, Rishi Sunak became the third Prime Minister of the nation in October.

The sight of these two figures conversing in the palace was nearly inconceivable just six months ago. Their contrasting suit styles today reflect a facet of the changing ruling class of the country.

Traditionally, members of the British royal family have set the standards for suits that align with their individual personalities. Charles III is no exception. Since his days as the Prince of Wales, he has favored double-breasted suits and exuded a flamboyant V-zone that includes pocket squares and boutonnieres. He is passionate about supporting the fashion industry and raising awareness about environmental protection. Charles is known to choose the best of British heritage brands for his suits and shoes, and he maintains a commitment to repairing them when they show signs of wear, continuing to use them for an extended period. This practice, known as "Charles Patch," has even given rise to a quirky trend, with some individuals deliberately distressing brand new clothing to mimic his style. The King embodies the aesthetics of the classic gentleman, and he is both the King of Suits in name and reality, displaying a high level of consciousness as a leader in an era where sustainability is paramount.

On the other hand, Sunak is a financial elite in the realm of global capitalism, with a background that includes Goldman Sachs, a Stanford MBA, and a tenure as the Chancellor of the Exchequer. His £3,500 suit can be likened to "hedge fund haute couture," tailored to make the compact Snack, who stands at 5 feet 6 inches, appear smart and well-proportioned. His tailor, Henry Herbert, was founded in 2009 and, though situated on Savile Row, is a newcomer compared to other century-old establishments in the area. Sunak pairs his slim, sleek suit with skinny ties, Prada shoes, and holds a high-end, high-tech insulated mug in his hand. The Guardian referred to Sunak as a "hired assassin planning swift clean-up after missions." This accolade can be interpreted as acknowledging his competence in handling the economic turmoil left in the wake of former Prime Minister Johnson's resignation.

The entirely different directions of the suits worn by the King and the Prime Minister seem to reflect the diversification within the conservative ruling class.

However, one commonality is that both suits appear detached from the everyday reality of the majority of the British populace.

<Photo: Buckingham Palace reception, 5/May/2023. HM King Charles III hosts a reception at Buckingham Palace for the Heads of State who are due to attend tomorrows Coronation. Thank you for the photo by Ian Jones. Creative Commons>