The Best Dressed Movie Characters of All Time
Words: Charlie Thomas
Cinema and film has always been closely linked to fashion. Over time some of the biggest trends have been created through the medium of film, and stylish gents the world over have always been inspired by leading men from behind the camera. Certain characters stand above the rest though, and they’ll forever be remembered for their impeccable sense of style, which has been immortalised on the silver screen, creating legends that will never fade. Here is our list of the best dressed movie characters of all time.
JAY GATSBY – THE GREAT GATSBY, , Robert Redford first dazzled as Jay Gatsby back in 1974 with his pink linen suits and mystical persona. Leonardo Di Caprio shone more recently though, proving to be perfect for the man who is as obsessed about his clothes as he is about his long lost lover, Daisy Buchanan.
JAMES BOND – GOLDFINGER, , The icon of espionage has endured decades of style, with a particular low-point being Roger Moore’s rather ghastly 70s suits. Connery is the quintessential Bond however, and he looked no better than when he owned that famous grey three-piece in Goldfinger.
DICKIE GREENLEAF – THE TALENTED MR RIPLEY, , The costume design team of The Talented Mr Ripley were nominated for an Oscar in 1999, and it’s easy to see why. Jude Law’s character, Dicke Greenleaf, epitomised Riviera-chic and his playboy lifestyle and unwavering confidence made him all the more alluring.
THOMAS CROWN – THE THOMAS CROWN AFFAIR, , An iconic film in its own right, The Thomas Crown Affair solidified Steve McQueen’s position as one of the most stylish men of the century. His character, Thomas Crown, is stone-faced and calculated and when it comes to dressing he is just as precise as when he’s organising the perfect heist.
GORDON GEKKO – WALL STREET, , Power dressing at its finest, Gordon Gekko is the benchmark for those looking to visually dominate in the boardroom. Wide silk ties, contrast collars, statement braces and double pleats are the order of the day here.
MICHAEL CORLEONE – THE GODFATHER, , Arguably the most stylish cinematic gangster ever, Michael Corleone really is the don. He opts for more understated tailoring than many of his contemporaries, which allows his perfect grooming and chilling demeanour to take centre stage.
MARCELLO RUBINI – LA DOLCE VITA, , The first film to bring continental style to the masses, La Dolce Vita was a sensation in many ways, but style-wise it truly raised the bar. Marcello Rubini looked immaculate throughout and with his brooding swagger and penchant for relaxed tailoring, he instantly became an icon of modern cinema.
JOHN ROBIE – TO CATCH A THIEF, , Cary Grant’s sartorial prowess is well documented but his character, John Robie, in To Catch a Thief is arguably one of his finest style moments. He effortlessly blended in to his surroundings, and looked just as good in his dinner jacket as he did in a striped jumper and chinos.
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Further reading
Nick Wakeman, founder of Studio Nicholson, on kickstarting her brand as a one woman show
Filippo Pignatti, founder of Gentleman's Gram, shares his secret style codes
