Loosely based on the rock opera by The Who, Quadrophenia captures the well dressed Mod subculture perfectly. The look we are going to dissect in this post is not the slim suits and pencil ties but the more casual look Jimmy, played by Phil Daniels, sports when visiting his friend Peter in the scrapyard.
The Outfit
The Coat
Worn by Mods to keep dirt and grease off their suits, the M1951 Fishtail Parka became an iconic fashion piece. They have become collectors items now and sell for up to £800 on eBay, fortunately many modern day imitations can be bought for less than a £100.
The Jeans
Levi's used Quadrophenia to advertise their jeans in 1979, straight fit were popular with Mods. Jimmy is even seen getting in the bath with his jeans on in an effort to shrink them to shape.
The Boots
Clarke's desert boots were initially based on designs worn by British soldiers that they purchased in the crowded bazaars of Cairo. They have remained an integral part of men's fashion and are an excellent smart casual shoe. Jimmy can be seen wearing them in the scrapyard. We like the "Destroyed Leather" version below.
The Polo
Fred Perry polo shirts have been adopted by a number of subcultures since the brands inception and the design has changed very little since then. You can pick yourself up a polo shirt very similar to the one worn by Jimmy or you can opt for a more modern slim fitted one.
Even though Quadrophenia was set in the 60's a lot of the fashion worn has directly influenced what men are wearing today. It is an excellent casual and timeless look.