Suave Sixties Style

It cannot be denied that the Sixties are having a moment right now. There seems to have been an upswing in media inspired by or set in the Sixties, from Mad Men gracing television screens to the year’s big awards contenders in film, A Serious Man, Nine and An Education. The recently released Youth in Revolt and this Friday’s A Single Man continue this trend and show that slick Sixties style is still a winner.

A Single Man based on the book by Christopher Isherwood, comes with flawless sartorial credit, being the directorial debut of the man heralded as the ‘saviour of Gucci’, Tom Ford. Colin Firth, as the main character George wears costumes designed by Ford throughout, a parade of sharp suits, crisp white shirts and slim ties. George describes his clothing as a kind of ‘armour’ that he puts on piece by piece, steeling him for battle with the world.

At first glance Youth in Revolt seems a world away from glossy, impeccable period detail of A Single Man. But note: gawky Michael Cera, in order to win over the girl next door, creates a dashing alter ego to give him the confidence to woo her. This alter ego, named Francois Dillenger and based on the French New Wave icon Jean-Paul Belmondo, rocks the causual Sixties look in a shirt by hip label Band of Outsiders.

There really is no better era for dressing to look sharp and well-put together and making you seem confident and a little louche. Granted, a new Tom Ford suit is a bit out of most people’s price ranges but you can easily recreate the look shopping on the high street. Try Uniqlo for affordable separates, especially their J+ range, their collaboration with designer Jil Sander.

Above all, never forget the accessories.
Try the ever reliable Top Man for skinny ties, Aspinal of London for pocket squares and Retrospecs for Anglo American glasses. Add a tie clip and a tumbler of scotch and you’re ready to go.