Jay Subyakto

For Jay Subyakto, style isn't about chasing trends, but rather consistency and comfort. For nearly four decades, he's been loyal to white, and especially black—a personal "uniform" born of practicality when working behind the scenes. "When I was a cameraman, black was a must so I wouldn't stand out. Over time, it felt practical, and it turned out to be the best fit for me," he says casually. From there, an aesthetic was born that has become firmly rooted in his persona: simple, straightforward, yet full of character. Jay's steadfastness in dressing aligns with his artistic attitude. He never gets caught up in the dictates of fashion or seasonal trends. For him, true style is what suits you, not what the fashion world is promoting. "Fashion can be cruel—it dictates what people should wear, even when it might not suit them. I prefer independent designers who are original and don't bend to trends," he says.

This attitude fosters an awareness of sustainability, given that textile waste is one of the most damaging to the environment. Jay's style inspiration is inextricably linked to his parents. He grew up watching his mother always look immaculate, able to combine batik with modern clothing without the help of a stylist. From there, he learned that clothing is not just about appearance, but also a representation of value and dignity. Unlike his younger sister, Chitra Subyakto, who was chosen alongside him on Tatler Asia's Most Stylish 2025 list in the Power Couple category, Jay finds identity through monochrome simplicity.

When it comes to wearing an Indonesian touch, he prefers sarongs and jackets to batik shirts, which he feels don't suit his body. For Jay, style is a reflection of authenticity. He believes everyone should have the courage to choose what truly suits them, without fear of being different. That's what makes him stand out, not because of the shimmer of layered clothing, but because of the consistency and integrity of his appearance. With his bold and elegant style without being overdone, Jay Subyakto proves that being stylish doesn't always mean adding something, but rather daring to "subtract" until only the essentials remain.