Words: Gentleman's Journal
It’s hard to imagine how some of history’s most celebrated authors – individuals who have crafted novels so powerful that, even years after their death, they continue to influence our collective imagination – could have any more skills to rival their writing.
These are people so talented at spinning yarns that their words now form some of our favourite quotes, their chapters are still lovingly studied, and their works of fiction continue to take pride of place on bookshelves the world over. Yet many were proficient beyond the page – we’re talking fashion.
To be a master of language and an expert in style seemingly goes hand in hand. So, Gentleman’s Journal have picked some of the most style-savvy authors and shown you how to re-create their most memorable looks. If not only for sartorial inspiration, your new threads may just persuade you to start typing up your very own tome…
Having written On The Road, one of the greatest journeys in American literature, it should come as no surprise that Jack Kerouac’s wardrobe is one built for adventure. Often seen wearing easy-going wardrobe essentials such as sweaters, tees and throw-on plaids, Kerouac’s no-fuss aesthetic reflected the ideals of the Beat Generation, a creative collective he was part (accompanied by other champions of self-liberation and spontaneity Allen Ginsberg and William Burroughs).
Adopt Kerouac’s laid-back look to style by investing in casually classic items like chinos or overshirts – and, of course, a weekend bag for those impromptu getaways.
The most cherished authorial voice of the glittering 1920s, Francis Scott Fitzgerald is best known for creating the fictitious Jay Gatsby, a character who displayed extravagance in his fashion sense as well as the parties he threw.
In surprising contrast, the American writer’s attire was largely restrained, but not absent of style – he mastered dark tailoring, and it’s rare to find a photo of him where he’s not sporting a dapper three piece suit. Take note from Fitzgerald the next time you go formal by wearing your blazer and trousers in a muted shade of grey – and don’t forget to add textural interest with a selection of herringbone accessories.
Oscar Wilde once famously quoted “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken” – and he certainly stayed true to his own advice.
The 19th century wordsmith is probably literature’s most admired dandy, adapting a rakish sense of style that reflected his witty personality and passion for aestheticism – whether it was in his plays, poetry or novels, Wilde believed in the supremacy of art. Be inspired by his eccentricity by introducing opulent touches of shearling or charming prints into your wardrobe.
The Old Man and the Sea, The Sun Also Rises, A Farewell to Arms – just a handful of the timeless literary works that Ernest Hemingway composed in his signature economical writing style. A key influencer of 20th century fiction, the iconic author often described his novels as adapting an ‘Iceberg’ approach; the hard facts floated on the surface, whilst clever symbolism operated below the prose, out of sight.
Hemingway’s sense of style was much the same – at an initial glance his outfits may seem like an unconscious assortment of basics, but look closer and you’ll realise that he was actually a connoisseur at achieving pared-back panache. Recreate one of his most iconic looks by purchasing a chic turtleneck and then, just like Hemingway, wear it with classic, low key pieces.
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