HOW TO DRESS LIKE JAMES BOND

I often hear from new clients that they want to dress like James Bond. Specifically, they’re usually referring to Daniel Craig’s James Bond. I’ve recently binged a couple of the 007 films on some of the travel I’ve been doing for styling clients lately, and I thought it would be helpful if I shared some tips and tricks to getting that signature style.

Initially, it may not seem like it, but it’s relatively easy to dress like James Bond. I’ll walk you through the tips and tricks to look like him, the items and brands he wears, and exactly where to get them.


Tips to Dressing Like James Bond

1. Minimize patterns.

You will rarely see James Bond rocking patterns of any kind. His items usually consist of solids. This makes your items easier to pair because you won’t need to worry about clashing patterns.


2. Use simple colors.

Bond is rarely seen wearing anything besides neutral colors, apart from navy blue. Adopt this same principle into your wardrobe and aim to have at least 60-70% of your closet in neutral colors - Grayscale (anything white to black) and browns.


3. Focus on fabrics and quality.

Because Bond’s items aren’t overly loud, the focus goes towards how high quality the items are. Poorly made items sometimes try to hide behind loud colors and patterns.

We’ll cover the brands he typically wears in just a bit, but know that you must focus on keeping things high quality. You will never get the same look if you try to cheap out.


4. Fit is everything.

Once again, because the items aren’t overly loud statement items, we need to focus on ensuring everything fits well. He never has items that are excessively tight or too loose. Everything conforms to his figure without squeezing it.

If you don’t have a good tailor on lockdown, find one. When getting started, any tailor will do. It’s just more important that you’re getting your clothing to fit. They will guide you through the process, so don’t worry too much about what to tell them.


5. Wear only timeless styles without trends.

One of the reasons James Bond’s style is so admirable is that it stands the test of time. The costume designers don’t look to influencer TikTok to decide what he will wear.

Instead, every item of clothing is classic - something we’ve seen throughout the years, but with a more modern fit. Focus on traditional items - Plain white tees, dark wash jeans, a navy blazer, etc. rather than what’s walking down the runway.


6. Have good items for every occasion.

Whether at the beach or playing baccarat in a casino, Bond always has a good-looking outfit ready. I often hear from clients that they "just need items for work" or "just want a couple of date night outfits." You don’t want to be the guy that’s only stylish 50% of the time. You want a congruent look all the way through, looking stylish for any occasion life throws your way.

Think about where you spend your time and start sourcing items for that, then work backward. We want to tackle the urgent stuff first and, eventually, build an entire stylish wardrobe where you have a weapon ready for anything life throws your way.



Where to buy James Bond’s Clothing

Let’s start by talking about where Bond’s clothing comes from. These are the brands he wears in the movies so that you can get the real deal.

Omega - Let’s start with the watch. Bond has worn Omega watches most of the time, before that opting for Rolex’s during Sean Connery’s tenure, and even Seiko during Roger Moore’s time. The Omega Seamaster is a fantastic watch and entry point into the luxury watch market.

Crockett & Jones - The shoes of Bond. Typically, when Daniel Craig’s character is wearing dress shoes or nicer boots, it’s coming from British shoemaker Crockett & Jones. He’s also been seen wearing Church’s and Danner boots when doing something more tactile—all great shoemakers.

Tom Ford - Tom Ford has done suiting for all the Daniel Craig Bond films. Of course, these are custom for him. Typically, when you see Bond in a tux, you can bet it comes from Tom Ford, among many other items the character wears, such as some of his knitwear. Brioni is another brand that has suited up Bond in the past.

Sunspel - For things casual, Bond can be seen wearing items from the British brand Sunspel, most notably their polos. These are relatively easy to find and an accessible price point for most. I’ve previously recommended their polos, tees, and sweaters to many clients. John Smedley and N. Peal have also had a few casual knitwear items make it into the films. For lightweight sweaters, I frequently recommend John Smedley.

Turnbull & Asser - This British shirtmaker had a long-standing part in the Bond films until recently, supplying shirts and ties to 007. Another luxury shirtmaker, Thomas Pink, has been featured on Bond as well.

Barbour - It’s hard to beat a classic Barbour jacket for some outdoor-inspired gear to keep you warm. Daniel Craig can be seen sporting a Barbour jacket at the end of the Skyfall film.

There are plenty of other brands Bond has sported over the years, far too many to name, and several who only dressed Bond once or twice. Some other noteworthy brands include Brunello Cucinelli, Massimo Alba, and Orlebar Brown.



James Bond’s Stylish Essentials To Add To Your Wardrobe

If you’re trying to dress like Daniel Craig, let’s get specific with some items you can add. There are the actual items Bond has worn in the films, so you’re getting the real deal.

Rag & Bone Henley

I often get this one for clients, and it flatters nearly everyone I put in it. This henley can be seen in No Time To Die (2021).

Barbour Jacket

Daniel Craig can be seen sporting the Barbour Beacon jacket in Skyfall. This one is a bit higher priced and low on sizing, so any waxed jacket option from them will do, like this one.

Sunspel Polo

For warmer weather, nothing beats a polo to remain stylish. Bond can be seen rocking a Sunspel polo in the Casino Royale film.

Massimo Alba Chinos

These are the chinos Bond wore in the recent No Time To Die film. While these are the same model from the same brand, the ones he wore specifically in the movie were made from corduroy. Here, we will go with a classic cotton blend to be more versatile.

Crockett & Jones Chukka Boot

In the film No Time To Die, Bond can be seen sporting the Molton Chukka Boot from Crockett & Jones. These look great with an earth-tone chino or pair of jeans.

---

So, there you have it – a comprehensive guide to unleashing your inner 007. Dressing like James Bond isn't just about following a style guide; it's about embracing timeless elegance.

Incorporate these tips, grab some of those essentials, and you’ll be ready for espionage or, at the very least, a good martini.

Hope that helps.

x Patrick