Episode 1: A Gentleman’s Second Life – A Change in Dress Style
Thursday, March 6th, 2025
Hello Ladies and Gentlemen, I am Miyuki Kitagawa. Throughout my career, I have assisted many business leaders, executives, politicians, and fashion-conscious gentlemen in selecting their suits. As a suit consultant at VESTA, my mission is not merely to recommend our “good suits” but to provide each individual with the perfect piece that maximizes their inherent charm.
In this column, using the keyword “Power of Suit,” I will explore how suits are not just garments but tools that can transform lives. Through interviews with suit enthusiasts, domestic and international style influencers, and successful individuals, I will redefine the role of suits in the modern era and share styling tips to help you stay ahead in both business and private life.
Featuring Kenji Wada Instagram: @kwad
The refined check pattern of a Scottish tweed jacket, tailored at Ginza VESTA, which he has worn for many years.
Kenji Wada had a long and successful career at a major insurance company before transitioning into a fulfilling second life. His approach to fashion reflects a philosophy that goes beyond mere clothing. In this feature, we delve into the origins of his style, the influences that shaped him, and his perspective on fashion in his post-retirement life.
From Career to Second Life
After graduating from university, Wada joined a major Japanese insurance company, where he worked for 34 years. At 57, he took early retirement and transitioned to a medical corporation in Osaka at the invitation of a friend. By 60, he had fully retired and now enjoys traveling across the country, living a relaxed and fulfilling life. His Instagram frequently features jacket styles alongside scenic travel photos.
“I don’t wear suits as often as I used to, but I always carry a jacket. It makes me feel at ease, especially when dining out.”
Surprisingly, Wada finds that fashion has become even more important in retirement. Although casual wear is more acceptable in daily life, maintaining his personal style helps him create structure and a sense of fulfillment.
“I wear ties less often now, but a jacket is indispensable. Depending on the colors and patterns I choose, I can adapt my look to different occasions. When I put on a jacket before heading out, I feel like my day has truly begun.”
His refined attire and graceful demeanor perfectly embody adult dandyism.
The Origins of His Suit and Jacket Style
Wada’s philosophy on fashion traces back to his high school years during the Ivy League boom in Japan. The school’s strict uniform rules made him focus on details such as shoes and accessories.
“Loafers were prohibited, so from the age of 16, I wore straight-tip leather shoes. The first pair my parents bought me was from Otsuka Shoes. Since I only had one pair, I took great care to polish them daily.”
During his university years, he enjoyed a more casual style, but upon entering the workforce, he had his first suits custom-made at a tailor his father frequented. The first suit he personally purchased was from Paul Stuart.
“At the time, my starting salary was just under 200,000 yen, and the suit cost around 100,000 yen. Every time I received a bonus, I added a new suit to my collection.”
Even after retiring, Wada’s meticulous approach to clothing remains unchanged.
On this day, he folded his pocket square in a TV fold, inspired by James Bond.
The Influence of James Bond’s Style
Wada cites James Bond, particularly Pierce Brosnan’s portrayal, as one of his greatest style influences.
“Brosnan had a well-balanced style. What I admired most were his turn-up (double-cuff) shirts, TV-fold pocket squares, and the way he handled his suit buttons. When standing, he would fasten the top button of his single-breasted suit; when sitting, he would unfasten it. These small details still influence my style today.”
Like a scene from a movie, Wada’s refined gestures and sophisticated attire seamlessly blend into his daily life. He also pays close attention to accessories such as watches, shoes, and belts, ensuring a well-coordinated look.
The classic elegance of full-brogue shoes by John Lobb in brown.
A Passion for Watches and Shoes
Just as with suits and jackets, Wada has a strong appreciation for watches and shoes.
“As I’ve grown older, I’ve come to prefer simple three-hand watches. When I graduated from university, I wore a Rolex, but back then, it felt a little like I was trying too hard.”
One memorable anecdote about his shoes illustrates the unexpected connections that fashion can create.
“When I was stationed in Kitakyushu, a company president I had just met chased me down in the elevator lobby after a business meeting and said, ‘Mr. Wada, those are John Lobb City II shoes, aren’t they? I own the same pair!’ It’s amazing how fashion can create moments of instant camaraderie.”
The Impact of Style on Work and Private Life
Wada’s dedication to dressing well has had a positive influence on both his professional and personal life.
“In business, dressing appropriately helped me quickly connect with like-minded individuals. In my personal life, dressing well in places with a dress code—such as fine dining establishments—often led to smooth and engaging conversations with new acquaintances.”
Dressing well is not just about self-expression; it also shapes how others perceive and interact with you. Through years of experience, Wada has come to deeply appreciate this principle.
His style is the result of years of careful cultivation—learning from James Bond’s mannerisms, developing a taste for quality from a young age, and using clothing as a way to enhance his second life.
Kenji Wada’s wardrobe is not just a collection of garments; it is a reflection of the dignity and character that define his life.
Author: Miyuki Kitagawa
General Manager of VESTA by John Ford, a bespoke tailor in Ginza, Tokyo. Native in Japanese, fluent in English, Italian, and French, she has 25 years of experience as a menswear expert. Known for her exceptional eye for quality fabrics and craftsmanship, she serves a clientele that includes top executives, politicians, and ambassadors worldwide. Even former Italian ambassadors to Japan have praised her work. She frequently contributes to fashion publications and has a deep knowledge of sartorial history. Her favorite food is fugu sashimi (tessa). https://johnford.co.jp/
