From the timeless elegance of Sean Connery, suave temperament of Pierce Brosnan to the dynamic charisma of Daniel Craig, there is more to a Bond flick than sci-fi gadgets, envious speed machines, exotic locales, sultry damsels and not to forget an adrenaline pumping action and a broiling plot. James Bond movies have ruled over our imaginations for 5 decades now. What makes the MI6 Agent utterly irresistible and different from other international spies? What makes Bond movies one of the highest running movie franchises in the history of world cinema?
Although the movie history is replete with spy heroes, James Bond with his sartorial dominance in style and impeccable dressing sense is the only one who renders aesthetics to bloodshed with a refined and seductive poise. So what is it that gives Bond the status of a demigod and makes him handle himself with a seductive charm and outlandish sophistication? It is his unique and immaculate sense of dressing and styles that has given Bond the license to impress. Here is a look at all the actors who have portrayed James Bond and their outstanding and envious sense of unmatched style.
Sir Sean Connery - Sir Sean Connery defined James Bond on screen with a successful run as the spy in seven films from 1962-67, 1971 and 1983. Connery is the actor who made suits everyday outfits. Whether it is the perfectly carved three-piece Conduit Cut in Goldfinger or the fine textured perfectly fitting charcoal coloured suit worn in Dr. No over a crisp white shirt and accessorised with a dark tie, Connery was the first one to give Bond his legendary style, which is still being followed even after 5 decades. From the classic single-breasted two button suits in Dr. No, the style in Goldfinger and Thunderball changed to more fashionable suits featuring a wider choice of materials. Sean Connery returned to play Bond again in 1971 in 'Diamonds are Forever' that saw him sport more liberal and fashionable designs and flamboyant linings, cream suits and pink ties, especially in the scenes filmed in the US.
Roger Moore - By now when Roger Moore had taken over the reins of James Bond, the trend of a more contemporary Bond had already set in. Even though suits were reduced in favour of white tuxedo jackets, double-breasted blazers and coats, turtlenecks and slacks (the 1970s), the new Bond sported French-cuff shirts that became his trademark. Despite 1970s inclination towards cheesy colours and flamboyant dresses, Moore stuck with the trademark elegance of Bond with classy outfits and fitting pants rather than the baggy boot cuts. Furthermore, a great emphasis was paid on colour palettes than completely colourful patterns to maintain the sensuality and sophistication.
Pierce Brosnan - Mid 90s and the Bond franchise shifted gears to feature gravity defying stunts and adrenaline pumping action scenes. This meant a complete overhaul of James Bond shifting to a minimalist classic look than an overly trendy spy. James Bond portrayed by Brosnan donned uber smooth Italian designer suits, leather jackets, knee length overcoats and all black ensembles.
Daniel Craig - The 21st century saw a more physically fit and groomed Bond who heated up the screen with the display of his perfectly carved abs and chiseled legs. The first blonde Bond takes on the initial days of the British spy thus making his wardrobe a mix of retro and casual wear to showcase an unmatchable elegance. The brooding Bond today is dressed in outstandingly fitting Brioni and Tom Hard suits and solo button tuxedos. Even though Bond today is the most gizmo friendly, he maintains the characteristic elegance. The tuxedo however kept on changing from black in 'Casino Royale' to midnight blue in 'The Quantum of Solace' to lighter shades in 'Skyfall'. The seductive white braces with black tie and cuff links added to the X-Factor and gave the new age Bond a debonair look.
How to Replicate the Bond Look?
There is no overlooking the way James Bond dresses and if you want to replicate the classy look, you need to pay great emphasis on the fabric. Try to keep the fabric plain and single-breasted charcoal grey, black and navy fabric can take you a level up in your dressing sense. Remember that Bond keeps the button fastened and so you should.
When shirts are concerned, go for pale blues, plain whites and pale cream coloured shirts. Shirt cuffs are also an important component if you are trying to emulate the Bond look. Black ties and single-breasted tuxedos either with peaked lapels or a shawl lapel will give you a look that you are trying to imitate.
