Our Man…Bond!

James Bond is the quintessential gentleman: handsome, worldly, sophisticated, charismatic.  Even in situations beyond his control, he always finds a way to look good while looking for a “Plan B”.

You may be surprised to know however, that in times past, some critics said that his attire wasn’t always appropriate for the situation.  They said that often times James was “overdressed” in particular situations.  Roger Moore is said to have brought this matter to light, requesting that more attention be given to ensuring that Bond’s attire be timely and appropriate.

Pierce Brosnan represented James Bond’s style with power and elegance.  Few men can wear a suit as comfortably and confidently as Mr. Brosnan.  The most resent actor to play Bond, Daniel Craig, creates a rugged, edgier, more resolute looking Bond.  It works well.  In fact, each of the actors that have been called upon to bring the character to life on the silver screen contributed in their own way to James Bond’s overall image, which is in a word – impeccable.

The key to James Bond’s style is to remember to wear clothes that are appropriate for the situation.  When the occasion is somewhat demanding Bond’s suits are more than capable of the task without being overtly stylish or trendy.

Let’s take a closer look at our man Bond, and break down some of the clothing essentials that make the man.

The Bond Classic Blazer
Much of James Bond’s look has subtle appeal to it, and using basic colors and simple lines always gets the job done right.  A classic blazer is a perfect Bond staple.  Wear your 2 or 3 button blazer paired with a well-pressed dress shirt.  If you’re shoping for a new blazer, find one with moderate buttons, details, and styling.

The Bond Dress Shirt
James Bond’s wardrobe is never complete without the perfect dress shirt.  Get simple button-down dress shirts in a tailored fit to wear with your trousers and shoes.  Try adding patterned shirt in softer tones to your collection of solid shirts.  Daniel Craig wore this look well in the last film, Casino Royale.

The Bond Classic Trousers
Remember, classic basic trousers are always stylish.  Wear your pair with a single pleat or flat front, slant pockets, two rear pockets with button hole, straight cut, and a zip fly.

The Bond Evening Wear & the Tux
The tux is essential formal evening wear and should be considered a staple in your closet as well.  It’s obligatory for Bond’s exotic locales and evening events, so if you haven’t found the right one, now’s the time to start looking.  There are a myriad of choices when it comes to options for your tux; from peaked lapels for a highly formal look, or with notched lapels.  More standard details include horn buttons and black ottoman silk trim.  Also, when choosing your formal wear, don’t forget the classic James Bond essential to the tux: the cummerbund.  The cummerbund completes the look, and keeps your evening wear dapper.

The Bond Suit
The suit really does make the man.  Bond’s suits are custom tailored in Italian fabrics, with 2 or 3 button jackets and double vents.  Typically, he’s decked out in dark blues and shades of grays.  When in sunny exotic locations, he’s often seen in lighter shades of gray, beige, natural linen and khaki.

NELSON WADE
At NELSON WADE, you’ll find the finest in high quality Italian fabrics, created with impeccable English style, in the tradition of a bespoke men’s tailoring shop on Savile Row.  We pay special attention to the subtle details and accessories (i.e., suit jacket lapels, buttons, vents, pant cuffs, shirt collars and buttons, custom ties, pocket squares, cufflinks, etc.).

Wonderfully tailored shirts and suits say a lot about you before you’ve even said a word yourself.  We have a variety of classic basics to choose from.  In classic James Bond style, we’ll create beautiful Made to Measure clothing to fit your lifestyle.  There’s nothing better than clothing that was made specifically for you.  When you look good, you feel good.  When you feel good, anything is possible.  We can help you with everything from your business attire to your formal evening wear, and everything in between.  Give us a call and let us help you create your own version of 007’s wardrobe, and much more affordably.

So, while NELSON WADE can’t help you save the world, while utilizing some of the coolest gadgets around, and driving 6 figure exotic sports cars, all while romancing the woman of your dreams, we will promise to help you look great while you try.

-Q (aka Jason Thomas)

(Look for the latest James Bond film, Quantum of Solace at UK Cinemas October 31 and in US Theaters November 14)

When Daniel Craig reprises his role as James Bond in QUANTUM OF SOLACE, he will be wearing an OMEGA Seamaster Planet Ocean 600m Co-Axial Chronometer with a black dial. Special thanks to Omega Watches for support in this article.

James Bond materials © Danjaq and United Artists.
007 and James Bond Trademarks, TM Danjaq

Visit NELSON WADE for custom clothing, such as Made to Measure Suits, Custom Shirts, Custom Neckties.