While the fashion industry is constantly churning out new styles every season, the industry would not be where it is today without the help of influential fashion icons. In this series called Get That Look, we take a cue from doyennes and trailblazers in the past, and recreate their looks with a modern twist.

Since his arrival on the scene in the 60s, music icon David Bowie and his evolving style have made quite a fashion stir. His willingness to push boundaries and never back away from controversy has earned respect across the entertainment industry. At a time when fashion neophobia was high, Bowie challenged gender conventions and embodied the belief that constant reinvention is a way of life, making it his working principle.

Bowie had many personas over the years, from the androgynous Ziggy Stardust look to the classic rocker in his twilight years, and his style and passion will continue to inspire many in the years to come. Here are top 3 highlights of Bowie’s fashion style.

David Bowie’s Glam Rock style

Taking inspiration from Japanese culture, Alice Cooper, and Stanley Kubrick’s “A Clockwork Orange”—came David Bowie’s most memorable persona, Ziggy Stardust. Kicking off the Glam Rock era, Bowie’s style during that period indulged heavily in stage makeup and took references from Kabuki and Noh Theatre. The mismatch became a success and cemented Bowie’s position as a leading trendsetter of his time.

The iconic turquoise blue suit that Bowie wore on the MV “Life on Mars” was designed by Freddie Burretti—Bowie’s go-to fashion designer (as well as lover and protege) during the early 70s. It has since been immortalized at the Art Gallery of Ontario, Toronto. You don’t have to go all the way to Canada as Noose & Monkey has a similar style that works just as well. Match the suit with a Dries Van Noten White and Black Striped Shirt; the optical illusion stripes will definitely be eye-bending. Do not shy away from putting on some makeup—Urban Decay is a good place to start, the basic Moondust Eyeshadow Palette will give you a luminescent glow around your eyes. Pro tip: your eyeshadow can double up as a blusher too.

Golden Goose Deluxe Brand has a David Bowie-inspired limited edition version of its iconic ‘Superstar’ sneaker. Available in black canvas with a silver star, the heel also features the artist’s favourite colours: red and blue. 

David Bowie’s Thin White Duke Style

With his hair pulled back, emanating a more subdued aura, Bowie took a retreat from his usual flamboyant style and adopted the persona of the Thin White Duke. This character was based somewhat on Bowie’s role as the alien in the movie, The Man Who Fell to Earth. The Thin White Duke phase saw him favouring a monochrome suit with bold gentleman look.

The classic white button-down shirt from Benjamin Barker features a wing tip collar and french cuffs. It looks sharp when crisply ironed and relaxed when untucked, perfect for any occasion. Put on a waistcoat over and you will realise that Massimo Dutti does have a slim tailored cut. To complete the outfit, Brioni‘s suit pants are flattering and charming to make you look debonair. Whether you are dressing for work or to make a fashion statement, a well-fitted suit can go a long way.

Accessorise to enhance your outfit with an Oval Onyx Cufflinks from Brook Brothers, or some rings from Tiffany and Co.. Ditch the misconception that Tiffany only sells jewellery from women—in fact, they have a good selection for men too.

David Bowie’s Comeback Style

After retiring both his previous characters as Ziggy Stardust and the soulful Thin White Duke, Bowie went for a more flamboyant and bold aesthetic.

Unless you are the man himself, a gold jacket can be quite hard to pull off. A cross between brown and grey, the taupe shade would be a very close second. Burberry’s Bomber Jacket is cut for a flexible fit with a military zipped pocket at the sleeve—a homage to the classic military jackets back in the day. Who says guys can’t wear rompers? About 2 months back in May, RompHim, a male-only romper, crowdfunded on Kickstarter. The project funding goal set at USD 10,000 eventually brought in over USD 350,000, making it one of the most successful kickstarted projects of all time. So, get your very own Denim Boiler Suit from ASOS. Last but not least, Rick Owens has the most amazing shoes, that will make you the centre of attraction.

Image credits: Consequence of Sound, Pinterest, ASOS, Burberry, Benjamin Barker, Dries Van Noten, Urban Decay, Noose and Monkey, Golden Goose Deluxe Brand, Massimo Dutti, Rick Owens, Brioni, Brooks Brothers and Tiffany and Co.