The Outfit I’d Be Willing to Be Known For

Or, The Guy in the Red Vest

If I had to wear one outfit over and over again, I already know what it would be. Not because it’s the most flattering thing I’ve ever owned, or the most fashionable. But because I’ve already worn it, over and over. And I’ve already been known for it.

When I was first married, I had a red jumper that I loved. I wore it constantly—warm, bold, unmistakable. At some point, I added a hand-knitted red vest to the rotation. It was the kind of red that didn’t whisper. It made its presence known in every room.

I didn’t realise that I wore it that often, but the youth group at our church noticed. When new kids arrived and parents were wanting to meet the guy in charge, they would say, “You’ll recognise him. He’s the guy in the red vest.” And sure enough, the parents would look across the hall, spot me, and smile. No need for formal introductions—just a splash of red, and I was known.

I always found that funny. And accurate.

There’s something oddly comforting about being known by your outfit. Not in the celebrity sense, but in the community sense. In the “that’s who he is” sense. The red jumper wasn’t a brand. It was just… me. Warm. Visual. Unmistakable.

So, if I had to wear one outfit for the rest of my life, I think I’d choose that one—not because it’s perfect, but because people knew me in it. Because it stood for something more than clothing. It stood for being seen, being remembered, being recognised in the simple rhythm of showing up week after week.

There are worse things to be called than “the guy in the red vest.” I think I’d wear that with joy.

Daily writing prompt

If you were forced to wear one outfit over and over again, what would it be?

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