Harrison Ford is a Hollywood legend. He’s become an icon for his roles in films like Star Wars, Indiana Jones, and Blade Runner, but a young Ford also made a lasting impression with his understated yet impactful sense of style.
Despite being in the public eye for decades, his wardrobe choices remain relevant, influential and embraces casual cool, much like Paul Newman and Ralph Lauren.
Here, we explore some of the key style lessons from Harrison Ford that continue to inspire fashionistas.
A young Harrison Ford’s Style / Getty Images
Table of Contents
1. Classic Workwear with Casual Abandon
In the 1970s and 1980s, Ford’s style was characterised by classic workwear pieces like jeans, collared shirts, blazers, and loafers. He wore these with a casual abandon that made his outfits look effortlessly cool. Ford’s penchant for stonewashed denim and impeccably tailored blazers set him apart in an era dominated by flashy trends. His refined scruff and collection of sunglasses added to his rugged charm. This look remains timeless and is a testament to Ford’s ability to blend casual and classic elements seamlessly.
Classic workwear / Getty Images
2. The Power of a Navy Blazer
The navy blazer is to Harrison Ford what the leather waistcoat was to Han Solo. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Ford demonstrated the versatility of this wardrobe essential. Whether paired with dark-wash jeans and a navy polo shirt, a Canadian Tuxedo or black slim-cut suit trousers, the navy blazer was a staple in Ford’s wardrobe. It’s a piece that speaks to his top-dog status, elevating any outfit with a touch of sophistication.
Don’t underestimate the power of a navy suit / Getty Images
3. Mastering Short Shorts
Long before short shorts became a trend, Ford was already rocking them in the 1980s. At the 1982 Cannes Film Festival, he was spotted in navy short shorts, a lightweight sweater, and beat-up boat shoes. The outfit, accented with black aviators and a small gold watch, was both casual and elevated. Today, this look is just as fashionable, with short shorts and small-faced watches making a comeback. Another effortless wardrobe composition that embraces the casual cool.
Lightweight & durable / Getty Images
4. The Importance of a well-tailored suit
Ford’s ability to pull off a well-tailored suit is unparalleled. His mastery of the shirt-and-tie combination is particularly noteworthy. He picks ties that are not too slim, not too wide, and just patterned enough. This balance is often missed by many but is executed perfectly by Ford. His suits, often complemented by opposing textures and shades, showcase his flair for classic materials. A twill trouser, cotton shirt, wool blazer, and silk knit tie create an outfit that transcends eras.
Perfect for all formal occasions / Getty Images
5. Embracing On-Court Essentials
The actor has shown that a suit jacket can be worn over more than just a button-down Oxford shirt. He has been known to pair a suit jacket with an open-collared polo shirt or even a vest, demonstrating a blend of formal and casual styles. This versatility is something that fashion icons like Ralph Lauren and Tom Cruise have also embraced, making it a trend worth following.
On-court essentials / Getty Images
6. Accessories: The Finishing Touch
Ford’s use of accessories is subtle yet impactful. From aviator sunglasses to western-style belts, these elements add a unique edge to his outfits. A standout moment was in the mid-’90s when he sported a handlebar moustache, joining the ranks of iconic facial hair enthusiasts like Tom Selleck and Mark Spitz.
Accessorising with Harrison Ford / Getty Images
7. Timeless Off-Duty Style
Ford’s off-duty style is just as appealing as his formal attire. He often opts for lace-up boots, blue jeans, oversized jackets, and baseball caps for a relaxed yet stylish look. His choice of straight-cut jeans for comfort and classic white low-top tennis sneakers for versatility demonstrates his knack for curating a timeless casual wardrobe.
Off-duty style / Getty Images
8. Perfecting the Polo Shirt
A polo shirt is a versatile piece that Ford has mastered. Whether paired with shorts for a summer look or slim-fitting trousers for a more formal occasion, the polo shirt is a go-to for Ford. His ability to elevate this simple piece through careful consideration of fabric and fit is a lesson in vintage dressing.
Perfect the polo shirt / Getty Images