Style Guide: James Dean, the Understated Rebel

Heartthrob. Movie star. Fashion icon. However you classify James Dean, he remains the embodiment of the 1950s, a decade that gave rise to hot rodding, the bad boy and the very notion of cool. Dean's understated uniform--blue jeans, white T-shirt--is now considered a classic, and it's not just reserved for the angsty young. Today any rebel, with any cause, can emulate the prince of slick. Pick up a pair of saddle shoes. Swap out that tee for a more modern polo. Channel Dean's effortless style, but make it your own. Because remember: In Dean's world, there were no rules, only suggestions.

Photography: Gieves Anderson

Market Editor: Michael Cook

Courtesy Everett Collection (Dean)