Steve McQueen’s style was an extension of his personality, and with a strong love for motorsports, his wardrobe was both practical and accessible.
The King of Cool had an aura that made his fashion sense iconic. Alongside icons like Paul Newman and Harrison Ford, McQueen’s casual cool style set trends that you should be following today.
Here are 11 key components of Steve McQueen’s wardrobe that you can use to capture his look.
Steve McQueen's 11 Wardrobe Essentials
11. Leather Jacket
Nothing says cool like a well-worn leather jacket. McQueen rocked a cropped, unzipped leather jacket, pairing it with navy jumpers and white jeans. Look for a secondhand jacket with that perfect worn-in feel to truly channel his style.
The jacket’s rugged look complemented his tough-guy persona, seen both on and off the screen. When choosing a leather jacket, opt for one that fits snugly but allows for comfortable movement, ensuring you can wear it as easily as McQueen did.
The versatility of a leather jacket cannot be overstated. Whether you’re aiming for a casual look with jeans and a T-shirt or something more polished with tailored trousers, this piece can adapt. The key is in how you wear it. Over time, the jacket will mould to your body, developing a unique patina that tells your own story.
10. The Slim Tie
For a touch of elegance, McQueen often wore a slim, dark tie. He kept his tailoring simple yet sophisticated, opting for grey wool trousers, a black wool blazer, and a crisp white shirt. The tie added just the right amount of flair.
The slim tie demonstrates how a single accessory can elevate an outfit, adding a touch of sophistication without overpowering the look. When selecting a tie, consider darker colours and subtle patterns to maintain that classic vibe.
Pairing the tie with well-tailored pieces is crucial. McQueen’s style was never about excess; it was about precision and fit. A well-fitted blazer and trousers create a clean silhouette that allows the tie to stand out. This combination is perfect for both professional settings and more formal occasions, showcasing a refined yet effortless style.
A slim tie also offers versatility. It can transition seamlessly from day to night, from business meetings to dinner dates. The smooth texture and slight sheen of the tie add a layer of luxury to any outfit, embodying McQueen’s knack for making simple pieces look incredibly stylish.
9. The Trench Coat
On those gloomy days, McQueen topped his outfits with a beige trench coat. He left it unbuttoned to show off the suit underneath, often pulling up the collar — think “Bullitt” vibes.
McQueen’s choice of a trench coat demonstrated his ability to remain stylish even in adverse weather. The key to this look is the coat’s simplicity and neutral colour, which complements a wide range of outfits.
The trench coat’s loose, unbuttoned fit provided a casual yet polished look and can be replicated by choosing a coat that is slightly oversized, allowing for layering underneath. The raised collar adds a touch of attitude, transforming a functional item into a fashion statement.
Trench coats are incredibly versatile and can be worn with both casual and formal attire. Whether you’re wearing it over a suit, as McQueen often did, or pairing it with jeans and a sweater for a more laid-back look, a beige trench coat is a perfect blend of form and function, ensuring you stay dry and stylish.
8. Fedora Hat
While a fedora might seem bold, McQueen made it work with single-tone styling. Pair a neutral beige shirt and pants with this statement hat for a modern take on a classic look.
It’s certainly a bold accessory that McQueen wore with confidence and it harkens back to his roles in classic films, where the hat was a crucial element of his on-screen persona. The wide brim and shape of a fedora can add a sophisticated edge to your outfit.
Choosing the right fedora involves considering the hat’s size and shape. It should sit comfortably on your head without being too tight or loose. McQueen often paired his hats with neutral tones, allowing the hat to stand out without clashing with the rest of his outfit.
7. Pinstripe Blazer
McQueen loved a good pinstripe blazer, perfect for formal outings. Its refined pattern and notch lapels made him the epitome of sophistication. Try it with a satin tie to complete the look.
His pinstripe blazers were tailored to perfection, fitting him like a glove and emphasising his sleek silhouette. The vertical stripes add a touch of formality while elongating the body, creating a sharp, polished look.
When choosing a pinstripe blazer, consider the fit and fabric. A well-fitted blazer with structured shoulders and a slim waist will enhance your frame. Opt for high-quality wool or a wool blend to ensure durability and comfort. The notch lapels add a traditional touch, making it suitable for various formal occasions.
Pairing a pinstripe blazer with a satin tie and crisp dress shirt creates a timeless, elegant outfit. This combination is ideal for business meetings, weddings, or any event where you want to make a refined impression. McQueen’s ability to blend classic pieces with his own unique style made his pinstripe blazer an iconic wardrobe staple.
6. Shawl Lapel Cardigan
For a more casual vibe, McQueen often wore a shawl lapel cardigan. It’s perfect for lounging at home or strolling around town. Pair it with a distressed denim shirt and straight-cut trousers for effortless style.
Steve often opted for cardigans in neutral tones, making them easy to pair with a variety of outfits. The shawl lapel adds a touch of class to an otherwise casual garment, making it suitable for both relaxed and semi-formal occasions.
When selecting a shawl lapel cardigan, focus on the fit and material. A cardigan that fits well around the shoulders and torso will create a sleek silhouette. Soft, high-quality materials like wool or cashmere ensure both warmth and comfort, making the cardigan a practical addition to your wardrobe.
Pairing the cardigan with a distressed denim shirt and straight-cut trousers creates a laid-back yet stylish outfit. This combination is perfect for casual outings, whether you’re grabbing coffee or running errands.
5. Double-Breasted Suit
Steve McQueen’s double-breasted suits were a masterclass in easy elegance. He preferred slim-cut, black suits with patent leather shoes. The six-by-two button structure offered a modern fit, making it a timeless choice.
When choosing a double-breasted suit, pay attention to the fit and fabric. A slim-cut suit with structured shoulders and a fitted waist will create a sleek, polished look. High-quality fabrics like wool or a wool blend ensure the suit drapes well and feels comfortable.
Pairing the double-breasted suit with patent leather shoes adds a touch of luxury and sophistication. This combination is perfect for formal events, business meetings, or any occasion where you want to make a strong impression.
4. Desert Boots
When formal shoes were too much, McQueen turned to desert boots. These versatile brown suede boots worked well with everything from blazers to jeans. Don’t forget the shades—McQueen’s Persol sunglasses were the perfect accessory.
Desert boots are a versatile and stylish footwear option and his choice of brown suede perfectly complemented neutral colours. The boots’ simplicity and comfort made them a go-to choice for various occasions, from casual outings to more relaxed formal events.
When selecting desert boots, consider the fit and material. A well-fitted pair of boots with soft, high-quality suede will ensure both comfort and style. The boots should have a sleek, streamlined design that complements a variety of outfits.
Pairing desert boots with a blazer and jeans creates a smart-casual look that is both stylish and comfortable. This combination is perfect for a night out or a casual business meeting.
3. Waistcoat
McQueen often layered with a waistcoat, adding depth to his look. A well-fitted waistcoat can transform an outfit from casual to sophisticated. Look for high-quality materials and a fit that complements your suit and fits snugly around the torso.
Pairing the waistcoat with a crisp dress shirt and tailored trousers creates a timeless outfit. This combination is perfect for formal events, business meetings, or any occasion where you want to make a refined impression. The waistcoat’s design should complement the rest of your suit, creating a cohesive, polished look.
A waistcoat also offers versatility. It can be worn on its own with a dress shirt for a more relaxed look (Think Tommy Shelby and the Peaky Blinders) or layered under a blazer for added formality. The key is to choose a waistcoat that fits well and is made from high-quality materials, ensuring both comfort and style.
2. Shearling Jacket
For winter, McQueen’s go-to was a shearling jacket. Light suede with cozy cuffs and lapels, this jacket was both stylish and practical, perfect for cold weather.
The shearling jacket is a perfect blend of style and practicality. McQueen’s choice of light suede shearling jackets added a touch of rugged elegance to his winter wardrobe. The soft, cozy cuffs and lapels provided warmth and comfort, making the jacket a practical choice for cold weather.
When selecting a shearling jacket, once again you need to consider the fit and material. A well-fitted jacket with soft, high-quality suede and shearling lining will ensure both comfort and style. The jacket’s design should be versatile, allowing it to be worn with both casual and semi-formal outfits.
Pairing the shearling jacket with jeans and a sweater creates a stylish, practical outfit for winter. This combination is perfect for casual outings, whether you’re running errands or enjoying a winter stroll.
1. A Classic Watch
Just like Paul Newman brought to fame the iconic Daytona REF. 6239, Steve McQueen took a particular likening to the Tag Heuer Monaco, making it synonymous with the stylish actors’ name.
Known for its bold square case and distinctive design, the Monaco became an icon in its own right, largely thanks to McQueen’s endorsement. Tag Heuer is closely tied to motorsports, McQueens favourite off screen hobby, so it’s a no-brainer that he became attached to this watch.
Steve McQueen’s style was all about simplicity, confidence, and timeless pieces. Incorporate these 11 elements into your wardrobe to capture his cool attitude. Remember, it’s about how you wear the clothes, not just the clothes themselves.