Make These Five Iconic David Bowie Looks Your 2021 Style Inspo

Welcome glam particulars, eclectic suiting and surprising equipment into your wardrobe this yr.

As a picture chameleon and tradition connoisseur, David Bowie took inspiration from the musical stars of his adolescence – like Little Richard – in addition to the artwork world, literature, drag, mime and theatre, and his sartorial collaborators from all over the world; and he blended all these influences into one inimitable sartorial catalogue. On what would’ve been the late idol’s 74th birthday, we’re wanting again on the indelible mark these David Bowie appears left on the world of trend and sweetness.

1. Wham, bam, thanks glam

Working with the Japanese designer Kansai Yamamoto, Bowie outlined what grew to become generally known as “glam”, a mode motion characterised by decadent textures, exaggerated silhouettes, sparkle, color and historically “female” particulars like ruffles and body-con knitwear. Bowie’s spouse, the supermodel Iman, memorialized the ground-breaking partnership between her husband and Yamamoto when the designer handed away final Summer time.

Tip: Classic shops are a wonderful useful resource for the flamboyant fare glam gave us. Have a socially-distanced scroll by a few of your fave spots’ Instas for finds whereas your daring new hair dye units in.

2. Relaxed ‘match

Captured right here by the legendary photographer Mick Rock (whose pictures proceed to convey many memorable musicians’ enduring appears to life), Bowie’s extra informal apparel was deeply influential to trend creatives like Gucci’s Alessandro Michele. And why not? The pairing of wide-leg trousers with prim buckled sneakers is a stroke of sartorial genius.

Tip: Don’t be afraid to play with proportion and vibe in your outfits! Demure with daring is at all times a cute coupling.

3. Suiting up

Few individuals might rock a swimsuit fairly like Bowie, whether or not it was within the model of a dapper Forties movie star or one thing a bit extra louche. This ensemble, from the Freddie Mercury Tribute live performance in 1992, reveals off his eclectic method to dressing by the combo of a stunning pastel hue, trim tailoring, distinction shirting and an suave tie.

Tip: Suiting doesn’t must be extreme – search for items in surprising colors and put on with patterned accents to present it your individual twist.

4. Historical past lesson

On a number of events, Bowie wore bespoke items crafted by the legendary designer Alexander McQueen (like this frock coat – an merchandise name-checked in his hit track, “Queen Bitch” – which Bowie donned for just a few songs whereas on stage on the Glastonbury Festival in 2000). Harking back to the fanciful fare sported within the Victorian and Edwardian eras, the piece is up to date by its styling with a recent sort of shirting.

Tip: In the event you discover some luxurious material in a thrift store (or have materials at residence that you simply don’t know what to do with), why not take it to an area tailor – historic references in hand – to present it a second life? Put on with fashionable items to keep away from wanting like a interval film character.

5. Wow issue

One might argue that Bowie’s mere presence gave sufficient oomph issue to each setting he stepped into, however his skill so as to add star energy to even the best of lewks – like a rugged jumpsuit – was really out of this world.

Tip: In the event you assume your outfit wants a gold jacket, it undoubtedly does.