ICONS: Paul Newman

Paul Newman, one of the most beloved and influential style icons of the 20th century, left an indelible mark on the world of fashion. Besides being a talented actor, Newman was also a style icon and trendsetter.

Born on January 26, 1925, Paul Newman became famous for his unforgettable roles on the big screen, but he was also admired for his impeccable fashion sense. His timeless elegance and sublime style have inspired generations of men.

Newman was known for his love of classic and timeless clothing. He loved wearing tailored suits, tweed jackets, impeccable white shirts, and perfectly cut trousers. He was a master at creating a simple yet sophisticated look, which gave him an air of effortless elegance.

A distinctive element of his style was his love for watches. Newman was an avid collector of Rolex watches, and his favorite model, the Rolex Daytona ref. 6239, became famous as the "Paul Newman Daytona," a gift from his wife, actress Joanne Woodward, with an engraved phrase on the back of the case: Drive Carefully Me. This watch was auctioned for the modest sum of 17.8 million dollars in 2017. His passion for watches helped make wristwatches an indispensable fashion accessory for men worldwide.

The three-time Oscar winner was also undoubtedly a great lover of sunglasses. Unlike his colleague Steve McQueen, who is associated with the iconic Persol 714 model, Newman loved Carrera sunglasses reminiscent of an early version of the Carrera Champions model (a line launched by the brand in 2008).

But Newman’s influence on fashion goes beyond his personal style. His relaxed and unpretentious attitude inspired a movement of informal fashion in the 1960s and 1970s. His rebellious and anti-establishment character in films like "Cool Hand Luke" and "The Sting" inspired a generation of young people to challenge conventions and embrace a more informal and authentic lifestyle.

Additionally, Newman was also a committed philanthropist and founded the charity Newman's Own, which produces a wide range of food products. His dedication to charity and social responsibility inspired many companies to follow his example, making fashion a vehicle for social change.

Even after his death in 2008, Paul Newman's influence on fashion continues to be evident. His unmistakable style remains a source of inspiration for many designers and men worldwide. His legacy of elegance, authenticity, and social commitment continues to live on through his work and impact on fashion.

In conclusion, Paul Newman was much more than a talented actor. He left a lasting imprint on the fashion world with his timeless style and relaxed attitude. His influence continues to inspire and influence fashion even today. Paul Newman will forever remain a style icon and a symbol of timeless elegance.

Paul Newman is an actor with a legendary aura, boasting three Oscars. Here is a partial filmography of one of the most enduring careers in cinema history:

"Cat on a Hot Tin Roof" (1958) - Directed by Richard Brooks

Based on Tennessee Williams' drama of the same name, the film narrates the vicissitudes of the Pollitt family in the southern United States. Big Daddy (Burl Ives), a terminally ill oil magnate, gathers his children to announce his will to divide the estate. Amid family tensions, secrets, and lies, the fragility of relationships and the inability to communicate emerge. Newman plays Brick, the alcoholic son tormented by his relationship with his father and the death of his brother.

"Hud" (1963) - Directed by Martin Ritt

Hud, played by Newman, is a rough and individualistic Texas rancher who lives in conflict with his nephew Homer (Brandon de Wilde), an idealistic and sensitive boy. Amid cattle herds and wild lands, two generations and two ways of living clash. The film explores themes such as tradition, change, and the relationship between man and nature.

"Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid" (1969) - Directed by George Roy Hill

Butch Cassidy (Newman) and Sundance Kid (Robert Redford) are two outlaws leading the "Hole in the Wall" gang in the Wild West. With the arrival of railroad men and the end of the outlaw era, the two friends find themselves forced to flee to Bolivia, pursued by a relentless bounty hunter. The film is a classic Western rich in action, humor, and friendship.

"The Sting" (1973) - Directed by George Roy Hill

Henry Gondorff (Newman) is a talented con artist who, along with the young and inexperienced Johnny Hooker (Robert Redford), organizes a complex scam against a mob boss. Amid deceptions, twists, and chases, the two protagonists find themselves facing dangerous situations and testing their collaboration. The film is considered one of the best heist movies ever.

"The Towering Inferno" (1974) - Directed by John Guillermin

Newman plays Lew Harper, a private detective hired to find the missing wife of a wealthy industrialist. His investigations lead him into the murky world of New York high society, where he must confront secrets, lies, and mortal dangers. The film is an atmospheric noir rich in suspense.

Other notable films:

"Exodus" (1960)

"The Hustler" (1961)

"Cool Hand Luke" (1967)

"The Verdict" (1982)

"The Color of Money" (1986)

"Message in a Bottle" (1999)

CURIOSITY: Paul Newman was the actor the producers of "La Dolce Vita" (1960) wanted as the lead, but director Federico Fellini opted for what he considered a more common face: Marcello Mastroianni.