Step Out of the Shade and Stay Cool

There was a time when suits were merely a boring but necessary item people had to wear in the office. The suit originated in England around the early 19th century but took its name from the French word ‘suivre’ which means ‘to follow’. The idea being that the trousers and waistcoat would follow the colour and cloth of the suit jacket. Originally suits would be measured and tailored to an individual’s size and style, but over the years ‘off the peg’ suits have become much more widely available and popular.

The popularity of suits as a fashion item has run very much in tandem in with the James Bond film franchise. Starting with Dr. No in 1962, a succession of super cool 007’s have inspired and wowed men all over the world with their sleek looks and suits that were the epitome of cool. From Connery to Craig, style has oozed from the big screen and had a definite impact on the fashion trends throughout the last four decades. Who wouldn’t want to recreate the look of a perfectly groomed, charming and handsome spy who had a way with the ladies? Diamonds may be forever but the secret to staying cool is to change your suit when James Bond does.

Bond-mania is about to strike again in October 2008 with the eagerly awaited Quantum of Solace. As actors and fashion trends have changed over the years how did Bond’s look evolve into how we see it on screen today? Ian Fleming once said that he deliberately didn’t describe James Bond in great detail in his books so that he maintained an air of mystery. This also meant that he was something of a blank canvas when it came to his dress sense in the movies. The classic tux will always be associated with James Bond but it’s the suits that have really brought out his style and sophistication.

It all started with the sartorial elegance of Sir Sean in the 60’s. The fashion from this time has come full circle and slim fitting two button suits are now a common sight in every office throughout the country. Roger Moore’s spell as 007 spanned 12 years and was more about safari suits than sixties chic. Moore’s successor in the role, Timothy Dalton only made two Bond films and never really got to stamp his personality on the role, perhaps it had something to do with the dubious 80’s suits of the time, which lacked real imagination and style. Daniel Craig’s incarnation as James Bond has so far seen a return to the style of the sixties and this look has proven a very popular one which should definitely not be kept for your eyes only.

Paul McIndoe writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.