James Bond Style

If you are into James Bond’s style, you’re not the only one. James Bond’s charm and undercover skills have a place in hearts of many, whether we favor classic Sean Connery, Roger Moore, or Casino Royale newcomer Daniel Craig. Refined, handsome, and sophisticated, James Bond is the quintessential gentleman.

Essential James Bond Pieces

The Blazer
Much of James Bond’s look has subtle appeal to it, and using basic colors and simple lines will always do the trick. Your blazer is a perfect Bond staple and will never go out of style. Wear your double-breasted blazer paired with a crisp dress shirt.

Tip: If you are looking for a blazer with an updated appeal, find one with understated buttons and details.

The Crisp Shirt
From jet black to bright white, James Bond’s wardrobe is never complete without the perfect dress shirt. Get simple button-down dress shirts in a tailored fit to wear with your trousers and loafers.

Tip: Branch out from solids with a cool patterned shirt in muted tones, as seen on Casino Royale.

The Classic Trousers
Your James Bond look can’t be authentic without trousers. Wear your pair with a single pleat or flat front, slant pockets, and a zip fly.

Tip: Instead of the very light chinos found on older Bond films, get your chinos in a darker shade.

The Tux
For Bond imitators, your essential evening dress is the tuxedo. It’s de rigeur for Bond’s exotic locales and evening events, so if you haven’t found the right one, now’s the time. Wear your tux with either peaked lapels for a highly formal look, or with notched lapels like James Bond’s own choice in Casino Royale.

Tip: When choosing your formal wear, don’t forget a classic James Bond essential: the cummerbund. For those of us trying to accessorize like Bond but who may be on the heavier side, cummerbunds may not always work. In that case, try a waistcoat to keep your evening wear dapper.

Finding the Look

Day Wear
Shop for your James Bond day wear in any reputable shop for classic basics. Try Ralph Lauren, Brooks Brothers, DKNY, or Kenneth Cole for blazers, shirts, and trousers.

Evening Wear
Since 1995, James Bond has been outfitted by Italian haberdasher Brioni. For a very authentic James Bond look, Brioni is offering a limited edition James Bond tuxedo, which is complete with a 007 Brioni lining, hidden pockets, and a built-in holster. More standard details include horn buttons, black ottoman silk trim, and grosgrain peak lapels.

If you are looking for traditional evening wear without the gimmicks, find an English tailor or brand. Impeccable English tailoring from Savile Row will give you your best Bond look, but you may find attractively priced evening wear in high quality if you do your research. Check all the details—the lining, the construction, and the fabric—and don’t be tempted to buy the first thing you see.

Points to Remember

Finding the right look doesn’t need to be limited to the basics listed here. With the newest film, try to identify the context for wearing each item. Consider when certain pieces are appropriate and in what season they look best. If you are into Bond throughout the years and want a little retro influence, find modern pieces with updated details instead of going completely vintage.
For anyone interested in getting a James Bond look, remember that comfort is your best accessory. No Bond lookalike will get far fidgeting on an important date, so make sure that you feel good in your best to make a lasting impression—double-o-seven style.