The Basics

Okay so you’ve discovered James Dean. The basic white tee, Harrington and blue jeans. But woah, that’s way too 60’s for you, lad. So how do you exactly pull off an outdated look with some ‘in’ items? Lemme tell ya…

First you’re going to want to get to grips with the basics of clasping that classic look. What was it that Mr Dean wore that got the heads turning? Was it those crisp rolled sleeves, was it the popped collar on the jacket or was it those turn-ups at the ankles? To be honest, it was all of the above. Each of these elements are striking in their own ways, but you can’t always get away with using them individually… pick ‘n’ mix, my friend.

Let’s start with choosing the perfect tee. You’ve had a try of the plain white and as effective as this is, it’s not doing it for you, that’s why you’re here… Remember, it’s the 21st century now, you have the wonderful world of graphic tees. Graphic tees make an impact and a half now! Yes, I know what you’re thinking, a black tee with the flames at the bottom, sick! No. I’m on about brands, brands like ‘Vans’ or ‘Thrasher’… what? You’re not an overrated skater? You can’t wear those? Pfft… I put one foot on a deck and I’m on the floor, it’s fashion, look it up! (Or carry on reading, that is ultimately why you’re hear…) Now anyways, both of the mentioned brands come through when it comes to fashion, they have such a selection of simple yet striking tees nowadays. This isn’t something you should shy away from wearing. Especially when you’re trying to nail that modern twist on a classic wildfire look!

Hey look, that’s the Vans tee I love more than a good pint. Actually that’s pushing it.. but I do love it. I’m also not too sure why I have a wrist watch on both wrists but there’s your daily dose of creativity from me. ANYWAYS, as I was saying, simple logo tees and simple graphic tees complete any retro look you are going for, especially that James Dean one you are trying to nail as we speak.

Moving on but not too fast tiger! You need to put some jeans on. Tsk, eager one you are.

Jeans are a beautiful thing that can be styled in more than one way! I recommend a pair of skinny/super skinny jeans to really put a modern twist on this look, we don’t want bootcut now. That’s had its time and trust me it’s lasted longer than it should have. In the first picture I am wearing a pair of White Stripe New Look Men’s jeans that I picked up for about £25.00. Beautiful purchase that! But as you can see, the turn-ups on them are incredible. Subtle, but there for sure. I’ve sorted these with a pair of bright white socks, this really breaks the colours up and gives you a bit more of a wow factor.

If you’ve read this far, well done, you’re over half way to being the next fashion icon.

I’ve used old school style Vans for the feet. Gotta keep them styled too! You can really get away with any kind of classic skater shoes for this one, remember, trainers and daps are the modern brogue. The Black and White colour of the shoes goes very well with the black and white theme of the outfit overall, however, you could probably get away with adding a bit of colour, be creative.

As for my jacket, I picked up this Harrington Style Jacket for £29.99 from eBay. It has been a blessing and continues to be each day. Make sure you’re popping that collar for added attitude or else there’s no point in having it. For real, pop that f****ng collar bro. Again, I would recommend a shade rather than a colour on this. Black would be perfect.

Now for the hair. You can really mix this up, any hairstyle would go with this! Oh, a buzzcut? Wear a beanie bro. Man Bun? What?! Those are still a thing?! I cut mine over a year ago now, that was a day of mixed emotions… but for real, you can be as creative as you’d like! There are so many tutorials for hair styles on the ol’ reliable that is YouTube.