When discussing the Dandy style, we naturally think of the flamboyant Irish playwright Oscar Wilde, velvet jackets and romantic shirts with frills and lace that defied 18th and 19th-century men’s fashion. Today, thanks to brands like Prada, Gucci, Louis Vuitton and Fursac, dandy clothing is contemporary. And pretty much wearable. So, keep scrolling to understand how to ace the dandy style in a modern and effortless way.
What is the Dandy Style?
The dandy fashion began in England in the late 18th century, among young aristocrats who enjoyed dressing in a flamboyant style. The typical dandy clothing of these trendsetters consisted of elaborate shirts with high collars and starched cravats, tailored suits and waistcoats embellished with several accessories like lapel pins and pocket watches. Additionally, the fashionistas wouldn’t leave home without long scarves, bejewelled walking canes, and immaculately polished shoes. In other words, Dandy is a fashion trend for men who like to stand out from the crowd with their rather exotic looks.
Dandy Style, the Harry Style’s Way
Harry Styles has embraced the eccentric dandy style like no other. No wonder the British singer found in Gucci, by Alessandro Michele, his ideal of self-expression. However, Harry’s androgynous-dandy wardrobe is a tad caricatural, including sparkling suits and feather boas. So, unless you’re going on tour with your pop band, you should consider the perfectly cut 3-piece suits instead. Add a dandy touch to your suit with fun-style accessories like colourful socks and cufflinks. And why not try with bold jewellery and bags to create this new masculine aesthetic?
The Modern Dandy Style
A true dandy knows the importance lies in the details of clothing. A perfectly fit suit is essential, neither too tight nor too loose. The resulting look must be refined and far from the look of a costume party. Pay attention to details like embroideries and buttons, textures and colours. Velvet, corduroy, brocade, and natural materials like cotton and linen are a must. Be adventurous with your trousers and shirts too. And don’t forget to finish with a good perfume.
This gallery from the opening of an Etro boutique Made-to-Order is a perfect example of dandyism. The new dandy is a rediscovering of a taste for the suit, the cut, the quality of materials and craftsmanship.
Elevated Yet Effortless
Overall, the style of the modern dandy is groomed. Additionally, he has fun with his clothing but, instead of dressing up as a 19th-century dandy, he plays with details. For example, a tailored suit embellished with a fun lapel pin or a pocket square in contrasting hues. Eventually, you’ll like this article we’ve written a whole article about how guys are wearing brooches and pearls in a cool and elegant way.
In this Instagram video, Mohammed Al Turki, film producer, shows his day one at the Venice Film Festival, where he’s chosen a Bulgari brooch to add something special to his silk tuxedo lapel.
Classic Yet Bold
The modern dandy enjoys trying new styles. Although he wears classic suits with elegant Oxford shoes, his tailored clothing comes with bold prints or bright colours. As you can see on Prada’s Instagram, which shows some pieces from the AW 24-25 collection, the new dandyism aesthetic is strong and will mark 2024.
A micro-trend seamlessly merging with the major trend of the new masculine aesthetic is the ‘man-bag’. Harry Styles is noted for sporting bags from women’s collections. However, Jacob Elordi takes the art of carrying a bag to another level, showcasing it with unparalleled flair
Feature Image Courtesy of Prada AW24