The Asket guide to dressing like Marlon Brando
The Swedish brand has everything you need to emulate this style icon
Words: Zoe Dickens
In association with:
If your familiarity with the great Marlon Brando runs only as far as his Oscar-winning turning as a jowly gangster boss in The Godfather, you’re probably not alone – but you’re also missing out on taking wardrobe inspiration from one of the 20th Century’s most stylish men. From his early roles in A Streetcar Named Desire and On The Waterfront through to his later turn in Last Tango In Paris (and all the red carpet and off duty moments that came in between), Brando’s uncomplicated, down-to-earth and effortless style marked him out as a Hollywood star to aspire to – then and today.
In fact, Brando’s easy way with quality basics and versatile layering makes him the perfect style icon to emulate in both your work-from-home and weekend wardrobes – and Swedish brand Asket has all the building blocks you need to dress like Brando. Based in Stockholm, all Asket’s products feature thoughtful, quality design and construction and are crafted under full transparency and accountability, so you can look good and feel even better. Here’s the Asket guide to dressing like Marlon Brando…
Start with a classic white T-shirt
A quality white T-shirt is the foundation on which many a great outfit is built – and Marlon Brando certainly knew the power of getting the basics right. Just like Brando’s favoured design, Asket’s white T-shirt features a ribbed crew neck and a flattering, comfortable slightly loose fit perfect for tucking in to jeans or trousers. Crafted from premium Egyptian cotton jersey, it’s built to last and, as with all products in Asket’s Permanent Collection, will still be available in seasons to come.
Layer up with an overshirt
Nothing says ‘relaxed weekend’ like a cosy overshirt shrugged on over your white T-shirt. It’s also the perfect piece for tackling tricky weather conundrums and, as Brando demonstrates, can be dressed up or down with the simple act of unbuttoning. Asket’s take on the style is available in navy, olive and beige and is tailored from a military-grade pure cotton twill with three pockets for the ultimate in utilitarian style.
Keep it minimalist in a long sleeved T-shirt
Dispel any notions of awkward teenage years spent in layered T-shirts and baggy jeans. If you know how to style them correctly, a long sleeved T-shirt can become a go-to for simple everyday style. The key here is to keep things clean – Brando’s rough-rolled sleeves and steel watch are the polar opposite of try hard. Take a leaf out of his book with Asket’s combed cotton design.
Never say no to a sweatshirt
We know you’ve probably been practically living in one since March but there’s no denying a good sweatshirt can be a saviour on those days when you really don’t know what to wear. Again, all it takes to elevate this basic to a covetable classic is a bit of styling (and, we’re sorry, your baggy gym shorts aren’t going to cut it). Simple, unadorned and paired with complementary colours a la Marlon Brando is the way to go and Asket’s unbrushed Egyptian cotton version, with its ribbed neck, cuffs and waist, is the perfect piece to go with everything in your wardrobe.
Get cosy in a wool polo
Once glance at Marlon Brando brooding on a beach in his polo shirt should be enough to convince you that they are resolutely not just for uncles at family barbecues. However, if you still can’t be convinced to add the type of shirt popularised by a certain polo-centric American brand to your wardrobe, a long-sleeved wool version is the sophisticated older brother that bridges that gap between smart and casual. Asket’s version is woven from 100% traceable extra-fine Merino wool that is both naturally breathable and insulating.
Smarten up in a linen shirt
How long has it been since you put on a shirt and tie? Six months? Maybe seven? The thought of doing up that top button on your starched Oxford probably feels like quite the feat right now. But there are still important business Zoom calls to be had so investing in a comfortable linen shirt is probably the best move you can make for your wardrobe right now. In fact, Brando liked his so much that he even wore it on holiday and we know Asket’s relaxed fit design with mother-of-pearl buttons will inspire the same kind of devotion. Jaunty neckerchief optional.
Throw on a denim jacket
In his later years, Marlon Brando became the king of casualwear and couldn’t even be tempted out of his favourite denim jacket for television appearances – and, when he looked this good in it, we can see why. There’s nothing finer than a love-worn jacket and that’s exactly what Asket is hoping to provide in its raw denim jacket. Fully lined and crafted from Japanese denim made using organic cotton, this is a piece designed to be worn repeatedly and just gets better with age. You may just still be wearing yours into your twilight years too.
Asket’s cashmere sweater is the only knitwear you need this season…
Become a Gentleman’s Journal member. Find out more here.
Become a Gentleman’s Journal Member?
Like the Gentleman’s Journal? Why not join the Clubhouse, a special kind of private club where members receive offers and experiences from hand-picked, premium brands. You will also receive invites to exclusive events, the quarterly print magazine delivered directly to your door and your own membership card.
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
