Style Secrets to Steal from 40 Years of James Bond

When we think of James Bond, we think of the tux. Over nearly four decades, more than five men have worn formalwear with the ease of a t-shirt, each adding their own edition of the classic. Time has passed: Cuff links, cummerbunds, and studs have been added and removed, and it's Bond's tailored looks that still stand out. But the tuxedo is just the beginning of that. In more than 20 movies, we'd venture the iconic character has gone through more costume changes that any other film star. From that, there's much to learn. But let's start with five iconic looks, all from different Bonds (and eras), that you should add to your wardrobe now — as soon as you master the tux, of course.

The man who defined the role also had a particularly strong era with which to wear suits: From 1962 through 1971, Connery proved over and over that a suit should be worn everyday of a man's life. No matter the weather, look for something that's slightly textured (like this charcoal masterpiece), then ground it with a dark knit tie and crisp white shirt (don't forget the matching pocket square). Really after Pussy Galore? Few things impress more than pulling off a three-piece.

As the seventies became the eighties, Bond became somewhat trendier: shirts unbuttoned a bit low, collars a tad wide. This being 007, of course, there were occasions to get dressed. And while neckties were sometimes absent throughout Moore's 12-year-tenure, he went a step beyond the standard tuxedo. Take this cream dinner jacket, for instance, which would win any summer night when paired with black pants and slightly askew bow-tie. Great for the casino, sure, but also for an event that requires you to out-dress a room full of penguins.

If a man is channeling James Bond, he's likely already in tailored clothing daily. But that doesn't mean a tie is always necessary — even for someone who's technically employed by the government. Dalton's Bond may have been the most serious — and his lapels the widest — but there's a rakishness that comes through when you forego the tie and let your hair grow a bit loose. Note that if you carry a gun, people will undoubtedly still take you seriously, even in this more casual spin on suit dressing. Or: Keep this idea in your back pocket for the next wedding.

No, a suit will not keep you warm in all 12 months — especially if you find yourself on a tundra anytime soon. During Brosnan's tenure as the secret agent, he killed it in the outerwear department — from more casual wind-breakers and military styles, to the real coat that matters: the overcoat. Look for one that's dark and plush, like this Brioni one Brosnan wore, then wear it with rich colors. The result? People will treat you with respect typically reserved for Judi Dench.

Sure, Craig often wears a suit as 007. But these are modern times. And like other Bond's before him, the actor has successfully proven that you can wear sportswear and still look sharp. Not only is this look another argument for why all men should own white jeans, it's also a testament to the power of fit: Keep things trim, and lines clean, and you'll look like you don't need a suit. A motorcycle doesn't hurt neither, nor does the artful mix of brown shoes with a black jacket. Here's something to try before Bond 23 is released in 2012: All of the above.