The godfather of so much more than just music, there were few corners of popular culture that Bowie did not dominate and conquer. The original and arguably last of the rebel, rebel’s, he paved the once difficult path of expressionist dressing, unwavering in his conviction and unswerving in his execution.
While fashion-historians and stardust-emulators alike tend to focus more on his limb-bearing catsuit-collection and garishly-proportioned rompers, the GOAT of chameleon-curiosity frequented an altogether different off-stage wardrobe that you have most probably been blindly unaware of.
From pioneering the now Teddy-boy popular high-waisted denim and white-tee combination to bringing loose fitting tailoring into an epicene glamour, the only that bites harder than ‘Diamond Dogs’ is Bowie’s big fits. Much like his music and memory, Bowie’s style influence still lives iconically on, so let’s dance through some of his biggest flexes, shall we?
-Red-Sails.jpg "The Style Oddity: David Bowie’s ‘80s style files")
(All) Red Sails
A block-colour masterclass, this is peak-flexing in both the wardrobe and hair department from our favourite cosmic-being. While the traditional co-ord is usually executed in two parts, Bowie proves three is most certainly not a crowd with this post-box red tri-set.
The Sun Machine
While the Fibonacci-sequence detailing of this silk shirt is a sophisticated-flex in itself, it’s the multi-faceted layering that’s really upping the dapper-status of this delinquent dress. While the white vest underlay could prove to be more Bruce Springsteen then bonafide style-arbiter, the near fluro luminescence of this riotous blazer ensures this looks packs some serious stage presence.
-Things.jpg "The Style Oddity: David Bowie’s ‘80s style files")
Oh! You Pretty (In Pink) Things
Make like Aladdin Sane and throw your book of antiquated conventions firmly in the gender bin. Bowie’s riot of no-rules hues is matched only by the open fit of this camp-collar shirt blazer. Opt for a soft taffy shade and let it do the shouting by pairing with washed out denim c’est noir, and you too could be a hero (even just for one day).
Jean Genie
Pirate blouse? Check. Pose that looks like you’re making your stance on Free Market Capitalism clear? Check. A pair or high waisted, perfectly faded, sublimely boot-cut jeans? Check, check, check, check. Jean Genie by lyrics and so clearly by wardrobe nature, Bowie gives us mere mortals a masterclass on how to bring gender-neutral and completely unfussed dressing to a day-to-day scenario. Bravo Bowie, bravo.
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