How to Wear a Suit Like a Music God

Icons like Nile Rodgers, Bryan Ferry, and David Bowie all made classic suits the foundation of their look both on stage and off, but you would never confuse these swaggy rock gods for their accountants. Why? They sweated all the details and made a statement out of a uniform. You can look as cool as them, too. The key is subverting tradition in subtle ways. Here, we’ll take a look at ways to mix up your suiting style to let your inner rocker shine through.

By Elliot Aronow

November 30, 2015

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1/10
David Bowie
Follow Bowie's lead and wear a few clashing patterns, keeping everything in the same color palette.
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Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards
Break your suit into separates to make it a bit more casual like Chic did in their late '70s heyday

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3/10
Bob Dylan
When you don't work in an office, you don't have to shy away from loud patterns like houndstooth or Prince of Wales check.
Redferns
4/10
Bryan Ferry
A double-breasted suit in an unexpected color like bone or camel is solid style move, on Ferry or anyone.

5/10
The Temptations
Who needs a tie when the rest of your look is clean as can be? Take a cue from the Temptations and go super minimal.
Redferns
6/10
Marvin Gaye
Marvin shows us that an immaculate white shirt and a skinny polka-dot tie are always effortlessly awesome.

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Mark Ronson
A metallic suit is the epitome of cool. Pair a tonic jacket with a slim tie like Mr. Ronson here for a similarly slick look.
8/10
Bob Marley and the Wailers
You can look as cool as Bob Marley and the Wailers—just remember to keep proportions slim and let the quality and cut of the cloth do all the talking.

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James Murphy
Sometimes the best way to rock a suit is to dress it way, way down like James Murphy did here.
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10/10
Thelonious Monk
The best way to look like a rock god in a suit is to act like you're wearing a T-shirt.
Elliot Aronow is founder of Jacques-Elliott, a lifestyle and accessories brand based out of NYC. Catch him on instagram here.