Most founders will tell you personal style is about self-expression. Jay Mehta would probably tell you it is about getting the basics right and wearing them to death. The Stamp Duty co-founder has little patience for trend-chasing or Instagram bait; he is far more interested in proportion, comfort, and clothes that actually make sense for the person wearing them.
From linen shirts he keeps reaching for to his renewed love for desaturated colours, Mehta’s approach is refreshingly practical without being boring. In this edition of Closet Diaries, he breaks down what men still get wrong, why understanding your body is the real cheat code, and the trends he would happily sit out.
What is the one piece in your wardrobe that gets worn far more than it should?
I’d say a couple of pieces: linen shirts, quarter-zips, jerseys. Basically, whatever we’re sampling at Stamp Duty at the time.
A menswear essential you think most men still get wrong?
I feel like men need to keep proportions in mind more often when they’re trying to pull something off. I always focus not just on top and bottom, but on how they interact at the waist. Experimenting with a simple, interesting tuck in the right place can go a long way in elevating an outfit, especially with lighter shirts that allow for half-tucks. Overall, men need to understand their own bodies better. Figure out what works for your body type and what you actually feel good in, rather than chasing whatever is trending on Instagram right now.
A trend you are completely uninterested in right now?
I’ve grown really tired of trends that use synthetic fabrics in non-functional ways. Not to say they don’t have a place: polyester is perfect for jerseys, and designers like Issey Miyake truly play to the material’s strengths. But seeing it used as a cheap, catch-all replacement fabric is exhausting.
A colour you have fallen back in love with recently?
I’ve been gravitating towards desaturated colours like mauve and butter yellow this year.
What are your non-negotiable travel essentials?
I don’t go anywhere without lip balm, my wired headphones, and a vintage watch.
A menswear trend you see dominating this year?
Long collars or mock-necks, structured silhouettes, and relaxed tailoring are all set to make waves in menswear this year.
Which brands or designers do you wear apart from your own?
I’ve been really enjoying Thaely’s work lately. I’m deeply interested in shoes and product design beyond clothing, and I love the strides they’re making with material experimentation. I absolutely adore Bhavya Ramesh’s work as well. She’s pushing Indian jewellery into a space that hasn’t really been explored before. In terms of clothing, I’ve been enjoying wearing my NorBlack NorWhite pieces, a brand I love supporting for the incredible work they continue to do in the space.
