The Most Stylish Actors on Screen

Throughout the history of film, men’s fashion has constantly evolved alongside the styles seen on screen. Leading actors have often set the standard for what’s considered fashionable. From the classic suits of Hollywood’s Golden Age to the bolder, more modern looks we see today, certain actors have become known for their iconic style. They have a natural ability to wear clothes that makes it hard to separate their on-screen characters from who they are as individuals. This article highlights the actors who have had the biggest impact on fashion trends around the world.

Cary Grant

Cary Grant is often considered the ultimate symbol of classic Hollywood style, particularly remembered for his look in ‘North by Northwest’. The grey suit he wore in that film is still one of the most iconic outfits ever seen on screen. Grant’s style was all about simple, well-made clothes that showed off his fit physique. Throughout his career, he built a wardrobe that set the standard for what a modern man should wear. Even today, his look is a major inspiration for classic menswear.

Steve McQueen

Steve McQueen, known as the “King of Cool,” was a style icon who made simple, practical clothing popular in his films, like ‘Bullitt’. He became famous for specific items like his Baracuta G9 jacket and Persol sunglasses. In ‘The Thomas Crown Affair’, he showed he could also wear formal suits incredibly well, proving his range. McQueen always looked relaxed and natural, whether in a sweater or a suit, and the clothes he wore on screen are still popular today.

Paul Newman

Paul Newman had a naturally sophisticated and classic style that he brought to films like ‘The Sting’ and ‘Cool Hand Luke’. He could make even basic clothes – a white shirt or jeans – look incredibly polished. His style was practical and suited his tough on-screen roles, but always with a sense of sharpness. Beyond clothing, his taste in accessories, especially watches, had a significant impact on watch culture. He continues to be seen as a symbol of simple, confident masculinity and timeless style.

James Dean

James Dean captured the spirit of youthful rebellion, and his simple but striking clothes in ‘Rebel Without a Cause’ helped define a generation’s style. The red jacket and white t-shirt he famously wore became almost a uniform for young men. He had a knack for looking effortlessly cool and authentic, which perfectly suited the characters he played. Though his career was short, his look in films like ‘East of Eden’ and ‘Giant’ had a lasting impact on American fashion. Designers still analyze how he transformed ordinary work clothes into iconic statements.

Sidney Poitier

Sidney Poitier was known for his elegant and respectful on-screen persona, and he carefully used clothing to highlight the strong moral character of the roles he played. For example, in ‘In the Heat of the Night,’ his neat, traditional suits stood out against the hot and disorderly setting. In ‘Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner,’ his polished and professional attire mirrored the social changes happening in the 1960s. Poitier always dressed with precision, often choosing well-tailored jackets and crisp shirts to convey a sense of leadership. He’s celebrated not only for breaking down racial barriers in film, but also for his consistently impeccable style.

Alain Delon

Alain Delon perfectly captured the stylish look of French cinema, especially in the film ‘Le Samouraï’. His iconic trench coat and fedora created the image we now associate with cool, cinematic assassins. In ‘La Piscine’, he popularized a laid-back, Mediterranean style that continued to inspire vacation clothing for years. Delon’s on-screen appeal stemmed from a sleek, sophisticated elegance achieved with simple style choices. He’s still considered a major influence on men’s fashion in Europe.

Robert Redford

Robert Redford became a style icon, embodying different facets of American fashion. He famously captured the lavish look of the 1920s in ‘The Great Gatsby’ with his elegant suits, and then defined the more rugged, practical style of the 1970s in ‘Three Days of the Condor’ with pieces like peacoats and denim. Redford’s versatility – moving between sophisticated glamour and comfortable, everyday wear – made him a uniquely American style figure, often reflecting a spirit of adventure in his on-screen choices.

Michael Caine

Michael Caine became a style icon in 1960s British films like ‘The Italian Job’ and ‘Alfie’, perfectly embodying the “Mod” look with his distinctive glasses and tailored suits. This look captured the changing spirit of London at the time. Later, in ‘Get Carter’, his clothing – long coats and serious suits – showed a tougher, more realistic side of British men. Throughout his career, Caine’s style always hinted at a journey from working-class roots to success, and he continues to be a major influence on British fashion.

Marcello Mastroianni

Marcello Mastroianni became the defining image of Italian style, particularly during the ‘Dolce Vita’ era, and especially in the film ‘8 1/2’. His signature look – black suits, white shirts, and dark sunglasses – was both sophisticated and effortlessly cool. He had a natural ease, a quality known as ‘sprezzatura,’ that made even formal clothes seem relaxed and comfortable. His clothing choices were a key part of the fantastical mood in his films with Federico Fellini, and he continues to be a major influence on contemporary Italian tailoring.

Harrison Ford

Harrison Ford is known for a practical and tough on-screen style, especially as Indiana Jones. The combination of a leather jacket and fedora became incredibly iconic. His look in ‘Blade Runner,’ particularly the large, detailed overcoat, helped shape cyberpunk and futuristic fashion. Even in roles like ‘Sabrina,’ Ford showed he could wear classic American clothes well. Overall, his on-screen outfits prioritize being durable and fitting the personality of his characters.

Richard Gere

As a movie and fashion fan, I’ve always loved how ‘American Gigolo’ basically launched Giorgio Armani into the stratosphere. Seriously, Richard Gere’s character was the guy who showed everyone what relaxed, modern tailoring could be. The film wasn’t just about what he wore, but how he dressed – it created this whole new link between movies and high fashion. Gere moved so effortlessly, and his clothes – those soft shoulders and subtle colors – really reflected that. It totally changed how men thought about luxury in the ’80s, moving away from stuffiness. Even today, that movie is a huge inspiration for costume designers and fashion retailers alike – it really nailed the look!

George Clooney

George Clooney is known for bringing back the classic style of Old Hollywood, often wearing tuxedos and open-collared shirts. His look in movies like ‘Ocean’s Eleven’ updated the cool, sophisticated style of the Rat Pack with sharp suits and a relaxed attitude. Unlike many actors, Clooney doesn’t chase the latest trends; he prefers clothes with a timeless look and perfect fit. In films like ‘Up in the Air,’ he embodies a clean, professional, and minimalist style. Many consider him the most stylish leading man of today, carrying on the tradition of the elegant stars from the 1950s.

Brad Pitt

Brad Pitt is famous for his adventurous and diverse fashion choices in films, ranging from the edgy look in ‘Fight Club’ to the vintage style of ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’. He uses clothing to help define his characters – think of the bright, patterned shirts in ‘Ocean’s Eleven’ – and isn’t afraid to try new textures and styles from different time periods. Whether it’s modern or historical, Brad Pitt consistently influences fashion trends.

Idris Elba

I’ve always been impressed by Idris Elba’s style. He really came into his own after ‘Luther,’ and it’s amazing to see how he carries himself on screen, especially in films like ‘The Dark Tower.’ He just owns a well-tailored coat and suit – it’s very British and always looks powerful and dependable. His characters don’t just wear clothes; they project strength through them. It’s a great mix of classic quality and practical, modern style. Honestly, I think he’s become a real icon for sophisticated, masculine fashion worldwide.

Ryan Gosling

Ryan Gosling has become a major fashion influence, starting with the iconic scorpion jacket from ‘Drive,’ which quickly became a viral trend. In ‘Crazy, Stupid, Love,’ his character essentially taught viewers how to dress well, focusing on the importance of a good fit and stylish colors. Then, in ‘La La Land,’ he popularized slim-fit pants and knit polos with his vibrant, vintage-inspired outfits. Gosling carefully chooses his on-screen clothing, and his style choices often set trends you see in stores. He’s known for a look that combines classic vintage pieces with a modern feel.

Daniel Craig

Daniel Craig’s time as James Bond dramatically changed the character’s style, beginning with ‘Casino Royale’. His suits, created by Tom Ford, were tailored to be lean and athletic, a departure from the more relaxed fits of earlier Bonds. In ‘Skyfall’, he embraced a tougher, classically British look with pieces like a Barbour jacket and knitted sweaters. Craig’s on-screen fashion is known for being sharp and enhancing his physical presence. He’s had a major impact on current trends, popularizing slimmer, more fitted suits and athletic cuts.

Tom Hardy

Tom Hardy is known for the realistic and detailed way he approaches his characters’ clothing choices. Think of the rugged coats he wore in ‘The Dark Knight Rises’ or the sharp, stylish suits he used to portray the Kray twins in ‘Legend,’ capturing the look of 1960s London. His characters’ clothes always feel authentic and practical, but also visually compelling. From the worn outfits in ‘Mad Max: Fury Road’ to the elegant suits in ‘Inception,’ Hardy brings a unique intensity to everything he wears. He’s truly skilled at adapting to a wide range of different styles and making them his own.

Cillian Murphy

Cillian Murphy’s performances, particularly as Thomas Shelby in ‘Peaky Blinders’, have significantly influenced men’s fashion. The show brought back early 1900s British style – think detachable collars, heavy coats, and newsboy caps – making it popular again. In ‘Oppenheimer’, he continued this trend, sporting 1940s academic looks with wide-brimmed hats and high-waisted pants. Because of his lean build, Murphy looks striking in tailored clothing, which perfectly suits the serious and reserved characters he often plays. He’s become known for the iconic hats and other headwear featured in his roles.

Timothée Chalamet

Timothée Chalamet is known for pushing boundaries with his style and is considered a key figure in a shift towards more modern ideas of masculinity. He often wears unconventional and gender-neutral clothing in his films, like ‘Dune’. His look in ‘Call Me by Your Name’ helped bring back a relaxed 1980s Italian summer style, featuring short shorts and linen shirts. He frequently works with top fashion designers to create unique and daring outfits for both films and red carpet events. Chalamet’s style is characterized by slim silhouettes and a fondness for rich, detailed fabrics, making him a major fashion influence for young people.

Mahershala Ali

As a film buff, I’ve always noticed how incredible Mahershala Ali looks on screen. It’s not flashy, but his clothes always feel right for the character. Take ‘Green Book,’ for example – his outfits really showed a sense of control and elegance, and even the colors seemed to tell a story. In ‘Moonlight,’ it was a bit more everyday, but he still commanded attention with his style. Honestly, the way he wears a tux is just flawless! Costume designers must love working with him. He embodies a really modern take on classic, dignified dressing – it’s sophisticated without being stuffy.

Chadwick Boseman

Chadwick Boseman was known for his striking style in films like ‘Black Panther’, where he combined African patterns with futuristic designs, creating a unique look for superhero movies. In ‘21 Bridges’, he portrayed a classic, strong detective. Overall, Boseman used clothing to convey power and celebrate his heritage. He left a lasting mark on how culture is represented through fashion in film.

Benedict Cumberbatch

Benedict Cumberbatch is known for his impactful style choices on screen. His take on Sherlock Holmes updated the detective’s look, popularizing the Belstaff coat. He often uses clothing to emphasize his height with tailored, well-made outfits. In ‘The Power of the Dog,’ he convincingly portrayed a Western character with a realistic and carefully considered style. Cumberbatch frequently plays intelligent characters, and their smarts are often reflected in their classic and precise clothing. He’s become a major influence on contemporary British fashion in film and television.

Harry Styles

Harry Styles is now acting in films, like ‘Don’t Worry Darling’, and continues to be known for his daring and unique style. The costumes in the film used classic 1950s American looks to create a seemingly perfect, but unsettling, atmosphere. Styles often draws inspiration from vintage fashion, favoring softer colors and designs that challenge traditional ideas of what men’s clothing should be. His on-screen style builds on his personal fashion sense, helping to make more colorful and individual men’s fashion mainstream.

Jacob Elordi

Jacob Elordi has become a fashion standout thanks to his recent roles in ‘Saltburn’ and ‘Priscilla’. In ‘Saltburn’, his character’s clothing was relaxed yet sophisticated, blending classic style with a modern feel. As Elvis Presley in ‘Priscilla’, he perfectly portrayed the changing trends of 1950s and 60s rock and roll fashion. Elordi’s tall frame and handsome features make him look effortlessly good in vintage clothing. Many consider him a contemporary take on the classic leading man, with a fashionable, modern twist.

Austin Butler

Austin Butler’s work in films like ‘Elvis’ and ‘The Bikeriders’ showcases his dedication to fully embodying his characters, starting with their clothes. For ‘Elvis,’ he wore a huge variety of outfits that traced the evolution of American music style, from early pink and lace looks to the famous leather suits of his 1968 comeback. Critics, especially in the fashion world, have praised how he wears these bold costumes without letting them steal the show. Then, in ‘The Bikeriders,’ he adopted a tougher, more classic look inspired by mid-century motorcycle culture. Butler consistently uses clothing to help tell the story of who his characters are.

Donald Glover

Donald Glover, who also performs as Childish Gambino, skillfully uses clothing to emphasize the quirky and often critical themes in his work, especially in the show ‘Atlanta’. His characters’ outfits are a distinctive blend of designer pieces and vintage finds, creating a relaxed, yet stylish look. When he played Lando Calrissian in ‘Solo: A Star Wars Story’, Glover brought a bold and elegant flair to the role through colorful and dramatic capes. Glover’s style is notable for being unexpected and always reflecting current trends, making him a key figure in blending streetwear and high fashion in film and television.

Oscar Isaac

Oscar Isaac is known for playing characters who appear both thoughtful and tough, and his clothing choices often reflect this. In films like ‘Inside Llewyn Davis,’ he wore textured, comfortable clothes, while ‘A Most Violent Year’ showcased his ability to embody 1980s power dressing with coats and tailored suits. He frequently uses clothing to suggest a character who is either world-weary or intensely focused. Even his ‘Star Wars’ pilot uniform became a memorable example of practical, heroic science fiction fashion. Overall, Oscar Isaac’s on-screen style is defined by its adaptability and strong, masculine feel.

Dev Patel

Dev Patel’s fashion choices on screen have matured significantly since his early role in ‘Skins’. In ‘The Personal History of David Copperfield’, he sported a vibrant and modern take on Victorian clothing with layered, colorful outfits. He’s known for choosing fabrics with interesting textures and unusual colors that suit him well. In ‘Lion’, his style was more relaxed and contemporary, reflecting a worldly and modern sensibility. Overall, Patel’s on-screen looks consistently convey warmth and a sense of artistic expression.

Rami Malek

Rami Malek’s roles, particularly in ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ and ‘No Time to Die’, have featured memorable costumes. He convincingly portrayed Freddie Mercury’s evolving style, from the flamboyant glam rock of the 70s to the simpler, athletic looks of the 80s. In the James Bond film, his character’s sleek, modern clothing stood out against the classic Bond style. Malek himself is known for preferring sharply tailored, boldly shaped clothes, making him a popular choice for designers seeking a fresh and contemporary inspiration.

Andrew Garfield

Andrew Garfield is known for his versatile style, easily shifting between looks like the nerdy charm in ‘The Amazing Spider-Man’ and the vibrant costumes of ‘Tick, Tick… Boom!’. His on-screen outfits always feel genuine and fit the characters he plays, often prioritizing comfort and realism. In ‘Under the Silver Lake’, he perfectly captured a cool, laid-back Los Angeles vibe that felt very current. Garfield has a knack for making even traditional clothes seem fresh and youthful, making him a standout in contemporary screen fashion.

Tell us who your favorite fashion icons are in movies and TV, and what outfits they wore that you remember most! Share your thoughts in the comments below.

2026-02-28 19:48