A little different than the style icons we generally discuss is Steve McQueen. He is well remembered for his leading role in classics like The Great Escape and The Thomas Crown Affair, where his fashion was impeccable, but McQueen was just a regular guy through and through. A former United States Marine from Indiana became the highest grossing actor in Hollywood, but was always down to earth. He never ran with the upper echelon and didn’t care much about popularity or fame.
McQueen had a knack for pulling off any look, from a sleek dinner tuxedo to his favourite motorbike racing gear. His nickname was The King of Cool and he certainly deserved it. Even when donning a simple blue blazer, a sweater, or his signature chinos, he was able to give his wardrobe a certain edge like none other.
Steve McQueen
What was his secret? His fashion, even though it was always well put together, never looked like he tried too hard or gave his wardrobe much thought. It was an effortless cool. We talk about that quality a lot here because it’s a key to men’s fashion success. Your clothing should be a part of you, a perfect fit, as if they were somehow made just for you. When an accessory or a piece of clothing stands out to the extent that others take notice of that particular piece, you’ve overplayed your hand. Steve McQueen never made this mistake. So, how do you achieve this?
How to Achieve Effortless Cool
Alright, here’s a big tip off for you gentlemen. Along with your business suits, formal shirts, silk ties, and other ‘dress to impress’ staples, everyone loves a rugged man. Steve McQueen was just that. He knew when to impress with his formal wear, but when he played, he did so in style. As a semi-professional off motorbike racer, he loved his chinos, his casual shirts, sweaters, and his signature sunglasses. So, for you, this means one thing. Pay just as much attention to what you’re wearing when you’re boating, hunting, or attending a weekend race as you do when you are spending a day at the office.
Brook Taverner has all the pieces you’ll need to achieve the perfect outdoor look. Here’s a brief list that will get you on the path of the king of cool:
- Perfect casual trousers, such as Daniel Chinos
- At least one pair of Ewell Jeans
- Casual shirts that look great with chinos, like Brook Taverner’s Plain Indigo button down collar shirt
- Harris Tweed Jacket
- At least one or two v-neck or crew neck sweaters for those chilly biking days
- Wool sweater, the perfect outdoor addition to any tweed jacket
Even if you don’t own a motorbike or a convertible sports car, you can still certainly pull off the cool, confident style of Steve McQueen.
As a final tip, always go for quality. Don’t skimp on this. It’ll show up after the first washing or dry cleaning. When you purchase a knock off Harris Tweed Jacket or fail to invest in quality wool sweaters, it will look like it. The key is to start off with less pieces in your wardrobe, but higher quality. You can always build on your foundation later. Now you’re ready for the great outdoors and the rugged, effortless cool of the King of Cool himself.
About Susan Grant
Susan has more than 7 years of experience as a Fashion Advisor for several reputed fashion houses and manufacturers including Brook Taverner. Her ultimate dream is to design and sell her own clothing line worldwide!
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