5 Style Icons For Men Who Don’t Like Dressing ‘Classic’

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The New Guard

We often talk about timeless icons in menswear. And while there’s no denying that the likes of Steve McQueen, Paul Newman and James Dean knew how to dress, the industry as a whole has developed a tendency to repeatedly refer to the same group of put-together gents when discussing style icons. But what if you’re the more adventurous type? There’s a whole world out there beyond the core ‘classics’ of suits, t-shirts, chinos and tailoring. With this in mind, if you’re looking to up your style game but don’t want to appear the same as everyone else, here are five modern gents who prove that sometimes style rules are best broken.

1. Pharrell Williams, Producer & Designer

From his fondness for statement head wear to his recent red carpet appearance in a shocking pink (women’s) Cèline coat, Pharrell – who’s now in his early forties – provides an important reminder that sometimes the most fundamental fashion advice is best ignored. Take the Gust of Wind video, for example, where ‘Skateboard P’ sports a Dries Van Noten tie-dye knit adorned with a tangle of J.W. Anderson for Loewe’s brooches. It works because it’s unexpected, colourful, bold and unapologetic. An innovator and legitimate trendsetter, Pharrell isn’t the least bit afraid to experiment (see: the short tuxedo he wore to the 86th Academy Awards) and seems completely comfortable with his own style. It’s this unwavering confidence and self-belief that allows him to try out – and pull off – some of menswear’s more trickier items, including faux fur coats, printed trousers and skater shorts. For him, it’s all about the fit. Being 5’7″, it’s crucial that everything is in proportion. That doesn’t mean Pharrell plays it safe though, he just finds ways to make styles work for his smaller frame. He flouts the rule that shorter guys shouldn’t wear cropped trousers or long shorts by remembering to keep things trim and fitted on top. If you’re into putting a quirky, high-end spin on street and skate wear, then look to Mr Williams for tips on pulling it off.

Pharrell Williams Personal Style Lookbook

Inspired By Pieces
  • Asos Denim Shorts In Slim FitAsos Denim Shorts In Slim Fit
  • Asos Slim Fit ShortAsos Slim Fit Short
  • He By Mango Garment-dyed Cropped TrousersHe By Mango Garment-dyed Cropped Trousers
  • Reiss Bless Crew Neck T-shirt WhiteReiss Bless Crew Neck T-shirt White
  • He By Mango Classic-fit Suit TrousersHe By Mango Classic-fit Suit Trousers
  • He By Mango Skinny Black Jude JeansHe By Mango Skinny Black Jude Jeans
  • Topman Hudson Reyes Black Leather LoafersTopman Hudson Reyes Black Leather Loafers
  • Vivienne Westwood Brogue ShoesVivienne Westwood Brogue Shoes
  • Ben Sherman Classic Gingham Check Long Sleeved ShirtBen Sherman Classic Gingham Check Long Sleeved Shirt
  • Loewe Leather Bomber JacketLoewe Leather Bomber Jacket
  • Saint Laurent Leather-trimmed Wool-blend Varsity JacketSaint Laurent Leather-trimmed Wool-blend Varsity Jacket
Final Word

Although certain individuals’ style icon status is undisputed, it’s worthwhile remembering that sometimes ‘classic’ and ‘timeless’ can be a little too safe. If you’re searching for a new set of icons that acknowledge the style of our forebears but add a generous dose of contemporary fashion, take note of these five modern day trendsetters. Do you have any style icons that don’t dress classic but still look first in class? Let us know in the comments section below.

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