The 21st Century Style Icons
Words: Alex Woodhall
When we think of icons of style, the mind immediately jumps to Steve McQueen, James Dean, Cary Grant, Marlon Brando and the like. The stars of yesteryear who have been inducted into the pantheon of cool and continue to be revered and a driving influence in this day and age. But in twenty, fifty years time, who will be the new breed of men who hold the same or similar status? The gentlemen who will ascend to that untouchable, demi-god standing when it comes to wearing clothes better than us mere mortals?
PRINCE MICHAEL OF KENT
When it comes to kempt and sophisticated facial hair, look no further than the Queen’s cousin. A beard of grandeur and distinction isn’t the best part of his approach to style however, elegant double-breasted suits are somewhat of a signature of his – he pulls them off better than perhaps any other man on the planet.
Double Breasted Linen Blazer, £275.00 from Reiss// Textured Linen Trousers, £115.00 from Reiss// Slim-Fit Fine Cotton Shirt, £125.00 from Browns// Campanile Leather Oxford Shoes, £280.00 from Matches// Navy Knitted Tie, £10.00 from Topman
JOHANNES HUEBL
The model and photographer is the epitome of continental cool. Suave slim fitting suits often make him the best-dressed man at many of the multitude of events he attends, he’s also nailed the off-duty aesthetic by sticking to simple timeless wardrobe staples.
J.Crew Cashmere Sweater, £225.00 from Mr Porter// Blue Oxford Shirt, £25.00 from Topman// Slim-Fit Tailored Cotton Chinos, £45.99 from Mango// Tassel Loafers, £40.00 from ASOS
DAVID BECKHAM
Sport superstar turned style icon, Becks defies type when it comes to athlete attire off the pitch. He’s survived some early sartorial missteps with sarongs and cornrows particularly coming to mind, and matured into a major face of modern British style. From rough and ready biker-inspired looks – he owns more than a few two-wheelers – to tattooed tailored get-ups, he makes everything look good these days.
Belstaff K Racer Leather Jacket, £850.00 from Mr Porter// Knitted T-Shirt, £69.00 from Reiss// Slim Fit Chino Trousers, £29.90 from Uniqlo// Washed Leather Biker Boots, £575 from Mr Porter
RYAN GOSLING
The Canadian actor and musician went from indie flicks and sleeper hits to Hollywood darling just a few years ago and hasn’t looked back since. There’s nothing too boundary pushing here but with an affinity for a crisp white shirt (tee or collared), a casual jacket, some Red Wing boots and some oft-circular eyewear, it’s a failsafe formula that Gosling pulls off with aplomb.
Hackett Suede Bomber Jacket, £675.00 from Mr Porter// Cotton T-Shirt, £9.99 from Mango// Oliver Spencer Trousers, £140.00 from Matches// Two Tone Round Sunglasses, £15.00 from Marks & Spencer// Red Wing Rubbed-Soled Leather Boots, £240.00 from Mr Porter
DAVID GANDY
The preeminent British model, one time Dolce & Gabbana muse and now driving force behind Marks & Spencer menswear, is a regular face on best-dressed lists – for obvious reasons. He wears a three-piece suit better than the rest of us and looks just as good in front of the lens as he does away from it, a true icon of style.
Thom Sweeney Checked Cotton Three-Piece Suit, £1,975.00 from Mr Porter// Tailored Fit Shirt, £99.00 from Marks & Spencer// Blue Tie, £49.00 from SuitSupply// White Pocket Square, £10.00 from SuitSupply// Del Formal Brogues, £159.00 from Reiss
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