The David Bowie Influence

David Bowie pioneered the marriage between fashion and music. Throughout his 50-odd year career, he has captivated the fashion world's imagination with vibrant colour, trend setting silhouettes and larger-than-life characters. Every few years, Bowie re-invents himself with a new look, accompanied by a new persona. The Thin White Duke, Ziggy Stardust, Aladdin Sane and Major Tom all helped shape the face of men's style through the ultimate vessel: David Bowie himself. As a tribute to a recently re-invented Bowie, we're taking  a fond look back on some his most inspirational looks and suggest ways to incorporate a little Bowie in your everyday life. 

This iconic outfit has been copied my many trendsetters over the years, but Bowie himself was inspired by the influential actress, Marlene Dietrich. This wide-legged pant have come back in a big way this season. Both Lanvin and Ance feature wide-legged, pleated slacks in their Spring 2013 lines. After so many years of tight jeans, it's time to slip into a classier look - the wide legged pant.

 This 1972 picture of Bowie features jacket with a high-contrast floral filigree pattern. With summer coming up, it's the perfect time to find a lightweight jacket with an some eye-catching patterns. Lace-up wrestler's boots were a big trend in Europe some five years ago and may be ready for re-visiting, but avoid looking like you are wearing a costume. The David Bowie look is all about confidence and carelessness - by adopting too many elements at once you can look lost between characters. 

This 1972 photo was taken during an Interview with David Bowie. Men's scarves have been seen from some designers such as Louis Vuitton and Robert Graham. The more colorful they are, the better, but look for smaller, geometric, non-floral prints. To pull of this look wear your scarf untied around your neck, over top of a suit, but no tie. This a great way to bring a sense of luxurious style to your everyday look.  

David Bowie dressed like a gentlemen in the streets of Munich, circa 1976. The texture of his wool suit looks deep and rich, even through this black-and-white photo. Also notice how thick his tie is. Even with this wide tie and bulky fabric, expert tailoring makes this suit look trim and stylish. Consider shopping around for a thick wool suit to wear in the fall and modernize with a knit tie or chambray shirt. 

This mustard yellow suit is one of the most recognizable of Bowie's looks. The colour is generally only suitable for the eighties, but many companies are offering coloured suits this season. Head down to H&M for their selection of suits and blazers in every colour. 

At 60 years old, David Bowie just released a new album. Not only that, but it's good, too. He has proven himself as an incredible musician, and that he's not ready to get off the stage yet. Check out this Style article for more information on his career, his style, and the man himself. He has style, confidence and the tenacity of a true Great White Shark. David Bowie, we salute you.

Happy Hunting,

Mr. Darcie