Studied Nonchalance: Steve McQueen, Style Icon

It might be the most famous car chase in cinematic history. The jet-black 1968 Dodge Charger soars through the air and slams the pavement, trampolining its way through the steep streets of San Francisco while weaving past trolley cars and stunned traffic. In pursuit is the iconic 1968 Ford Mustang GT Fastback, piloted by the iconic actor, Steve McQueen. Although McQueen forwent much of the stunt driving in the box-office hit, Bullitt, he was well-known as an avid racer (he competed in the Baja 1000 and the 12 Hours of Sebring, for example). McQueen owned Porsches, Ferraris, Jaguars, and an array of motorcycles and airplanes.

“I remember seeing him across the swimming pool and my knees were knocking. He radiated such macho energy. Men wanted to be like him. Uptight society ladies and biker molls wanted to be with him,” recalls actress and ex-wife Ali MacGraw. McQueen was undeniably the “King of Cool,” largely because he looked the part.

The superstar’s wardrobe was an extension of his effortless, rugged, and masculine personality. Here are some of the elements that make Steve McQueen a style icon:

The Persol Sunglasses:

The Harrington Jacket:

The Chunky Shawl-Collar Cardigan and Desert Boots:

The Basic Outfit:

The Bikes:

The Cars: