Many men struggle to find inspiration to polish their look. With so many options on the market, it becomes overwhelming to work out which styles and trends best suit one’s personality and build.
Tired of a monotonous wardrobe and a lack of fresh ideas? Feeling that the outfits do not reflect the man inside, but unsure where to begin? And wondering how some famous men always manage to look so good? A little inspiration from their style can reveal new ideas and techniques. Below, we look at how elements from four famous men can be adapted into a wardrobe with that certain something, so long sought after.
1. The Duke of Windsor: what to borrow from his style
Also known as Edward VIII, the Duke was famed a century ago for his style of dress. What exactly set him apart? First, he was celebrated for his impeccably cut suits. He was famous for quality fabrics, often in bold patterns. Indeed, the Duke popularised tweed in Europe, along with striped cloths and the Prince of Wales check, a pattern that still bears his title today. Likewise, the wide, triangular Windsor knot is often associated with him. Finally, the Duke was a pioneer of smart casual. He had a gift for mixing formal and relaxed pieces into a look that was stylish yet relaxed. His abdication from the throne was just as stylish, and just as relaxed.
2. Cary Grant: how to adopt a simple, elegant style
The actor’s style is defined by simplicity and elegance. For the more understated man, here are a few ideas to draw on. First, Grant was known for his minimalist style. He avoided loud colours and garish patterns. Grey, navy and black were part of his daily arsenal. He was also famed for the whiteness of his shirts. Always perfectly pressed, they gave him a neutral yet dapper look. Unlike the Duke of Windsor, Grant favoured less ostentatious accessories. He preferred plain ties or discreet patterns, and white pocket squares. Well-cut overcoats and trench coats completed outfits of rare refinement.
3. Gianni Agnelli: how to wear nonchalance with style
The style of Gianni Agnelli, the legendary Italian industrialist, combines a keen eye for detail with a nonchalant Mediterranean flair. Curious what might be “stolen” from him? First of all, the tie worn over the jumper. It was his signature, lending him a distinctive, relaxed air. Another emblematic detail was the watch worn over the shirt cuff. This “arrogance” became iconic and showed that broken conventions can sometimes add personality to an outfit. And with his obsession for Italian-style suits, with unpadded shoulders and half-lined interiors, elegance and comfort went hand in hand. Beyond suits, Agnelli was also known for sport jackets, often worn with contrasting trousers. It was a mix-and-match that looked casual but was meticulously chosen.
4. Ralph Lauren: how to adopt a typically American look
Across the Atlantic, Ralph Lauren’s style is synonymous with the empire of the same name, which he built from scratch. What does that mean in practice? First, American preppy style with Western influences. Ivy League-inspired suits and equestrian touches are central to his style. V-neck jumpers, casual jackets and chinos are also essential. What sets Lauren’s style apart is the force with which it evokes nostalgia for the past. His ideas draw on vintage pieces, reinterpreted in a modern key. Lauren also excels at the art of layering colours and textures. Every outfit is built of many layers, such as shirts under wool jumpers and tweed jackets, for a rich, sophisticated look.
In short, the Duke of Windsor showed that innovation and attention to detail can turn any outfit into a symbol of taste. Cary Grant showed the importance of simplicity and flawless cuts to a classic, elegant style. Gianni Agnelli combined nonchalance with sophistication and proved that personal style is the simplest form of creative expression. Ralph Lauren, with his timeless American taste, shows that tradition and modernity can coexist in harmony. The styles of these famous men offer plenty of ways to redefine a wardrobe. A quick Google search will prove the point.
