Clark Gable
This actor was the main heartthrob during the golden age of Hollywood and nobody represents the style of this era better than him. His famous smile and manly elegance are as unforgettable as his portrayal of Rhett Butler in "Gone with the Wind" (1939). He was one of the men who most influenced men's fashion in the 20th century. An example of this is what happened when “What happened that night” (1934) was released. In one of the scenes in this film, the actor takes off his shirt, revealing his N- torso. At the time for men, it was strictly to wear undershirts under the shirt. After that scene, sales of these garments fell drastically and the custom of wearing them fell more and more into disuse. Despite his humble origins, he looked impeccable in whatever he wore, be it a period suit, a simple shirt, or a tuxedo. Clark Gable is proof that posture is essential when it comes to being elegant. No matter how expensive the suit is, it's useless if you don't know how to wear it with ease and ease like Gable did.
Laurence Olivier
Few men could combine grace, beauty, and, talent like this British actor. Olivier had it all, and more importantly, everyone knew it. His interpretation of Hamlet by him is considered to this day one of the best in history and we can never forget him in "Wuthering Heights" and "Rebecca." His elegance in dressing complemented his formidable appearance, imposing presence, and great charisma of him. He wore impeccable suits purchased on very British Savile Row. He looked sophisticated even in the most casual outfits, transitioning effortlessly from an elegant tailcoat to a trench coat without losing an ounce of glamour. One of his favorite accessories was silk scarves tied around his neck. They say that his main image consultant was his wife, the mythical and glamorous actress Vivien Leigh, famous for her role as Scarlett O'Hara.
Errol Flynn
When talking about this controversial and complex actor, one thing everyone agrees on is his elegance. On-screen, he was a real chameleon, able to look great in even the most ridiculous period costumes. Not even Robin Hood's green leggings could mar his style. In his day-to-day life, he paid enormous attention to his appearance and was a connoisseur of fashion. His knowledge of tailoring would have allowed him to debate cut and style on a par with the most experienced tailor. His characteristic mustache was imitated by many men during the 30s and 40s.
William Powell
The innate elegance of this American actor was one of his main characteristics. Along with Myrna Loy, they made up one of the most iconic movie couples of the 1930s. Although he wasn't particularly attractive, Powell perfectly combined charm, charisma, and poise. Lauren Bacall described him as: “a true gentleman.” Always dressed in well-cut suits, fedora hats, and very elegant tuxedos, he forged the image of the perfect gentleman.
Rodolfo Valentino
The mythical sheik of silent movies, with his exotic appearance and charismatic presence, forged the image of the Latin lover. This Italian actor who exuded sophistication and sensuality also cultivated, when it came to dressing, very avant-garde tastes for his time. His innovative wardrobe had an enormous impact on the American masses. He imposed gaucho pants, wristwatches (which at that time were considered feminine), and gelled hair. In fact, his hairstyle with a side part and hair completely covered in Vaseline was so imitated, he nicknamed it "Vaseline." His wife, actress, and designer Natacha Rambova, played a key role in shaping his look, dressing him both on and off the big screen. Of course, his Italian blood must also have played a part in making him one of the most elegant men of his day. He had practically a suit for every occasion, and when his wardrobe was auctioned off after his death, over 50 suits were sold! He loved luxury accessories, he had fur-trimmed silk bathrobes, handkerchiefs personalized with his initials, numerous rings, watches, cufflinks set with precious stones, and diamond-encrusted cigarette cases. Valentino was an example of how to incorporate atypical elements into the wardrobe, be it a hat, a foulard, or some leather detail.
