The mod, punk and new wave archetypes of 1980s England come up time and time again as fashion inspiration, but The Style Council, as a band, had a unique look that set them apart from more popular groups of the era like The Clash and The Specials. Comprised of Paul Weller and Mick Talbot, the duo's soulful, politically-charged synth pop was a mixture of many different sounds, and so was their style, an odd blend of England's mod looks updated with classic Ivy League prep and even Parisian touches that was dubbed French Ivy for its youthful but cosmopolitan vibe.
The look is effortless and cool, but requires more than throwing on a leather jacket and ripped jeans—think the bright colors of the 1960s, like oranges, pinks and reds. Sweaters, in neutral colors to balance bright shirts, look best lazily knotted over the shoulder, and the shoe choice for the ivy set will always be loafers. Below are some ideas on how to cop the look:
Thom Browne Varsity Blazer and Engineered Garments Herringbone Cambridge Trousers
Comme des Garcon Button Front Cardigan, BillyKirk Nautical Webring Belt Nautical Webring Belt, Steven Alan Scout Sock
Hentsch Sunday Shirt and Breitling Montbrilliant Watch
Bass Landrover Loafer and Burberry Bonded Cotton Trench Coat
