Quade Cooper
Designer and professional rugby player, 34
Professional rugby player-turnedfashion designer Quade Cooper opens his (very organised) closet to reveal a fun mix of collectable sneakers, clean-cut basics, Balenciaga and his very own SHOSAI streetwear label. Citing Kanye West as a style influence, Quade’s daily outfits reflect a high-end but minimal aesthetic where layers, texture and a neutral colour palette all play a key role. While he does admit to a “10 year fashion faux pas period”, it seems Quade has finally found his sartorial groove.
How would you describe your personal style?
My personal style is somewhat based around simplicity and complementing colours. I like simple shapes where the detail is in the fit and texture with colours that complement rather that match.
Who are your style icons? For me I look at a lot of fashion inspo mainly from women with how they layer their outfits and the colours they use and then put similar outfits together with my own personal style. Some of those people would be Hailey Bieber and Sofia Richie, with local inspo being Nadia Bartel. She puts really good neutral tones and textures together well. From an icon point of view I would say Jerry Lorenzo, Russ Westbrook, Kanye and Shia Lebeouf’s vintage style
What’s the oldest thing in your wardrobe?
A Daniel Patrick hoodie I bought in 2016. I love the fit and it’s attached to memories of my first trip to NYC.
What are your favourite brands? Aime, Leon Dore, FOG, Rhude, Balenciaga, Honor the Gift, Uniqlo for socks and Zara for basics.
Have you ever made a style faux pas?
I would consider 2008-2018 a 10-year fashion faux pas period where I was still finding my own style. I look back at photos every now and then for a bit of a laugh.
What is the most surprising thing about your wardrobe?
How well organised it is. I have it all colour co-ordinated, and style type organised.
Top three wardrobe must- haves? Every wardrobe must have fresh white socks, fresh white Ts and a pair of SHOSAI sweatpants.
What is the most sentimental item in your wardrobe?
I’m not very sentimental at all when it comes to material things like clothes and possessions. My friends and family take most of my clothes and shoes, which is good because a lot of things would just sit and never get worn. But I would have to say my first samples of my brand SHOSAI, as it was my dream for years to create a brand. To see it come to life and be able to hold some clothes that were mine and my vision is something I’ll always appreciate.
What would you buy if money was no object? Air Jordan Diors – high and low.
Summer or winter fashion? Winter as you get to layer but I do love summer style now.
Loafers or sneakers? Sneakers.
Is there anything in your wardrobe you have regretted throwing out? I never regret throwing things out or giving them away. Without change there’s no growth.