At this point, it’s no secret that Johnny Depp is hardlyHollywood’s golden boy. Yet,however divisive the man may be in real life, his character in Mike Newell’s 1997 gangster
film Donnie Brasco has at least got his sartorial shit together. In the role of Joe Pistone, an undercover
FBI agent infiltrating the Mafia as “Donnie Brasco”, Depp kills it in the style stakes, reminding us of the enduring
appeal of the seventies – an era thatcontinuesto inform our approach to dressing today, as evidenced by the current corduroy-peppered
collections of every major fashion house this season.
The success of Depp’s styling as Pistone can be largely attributed to the role of one
particular hero piece: the classic brown leather coat. Such a garment has long been a staple in winter wardrobes,
and for good reason: practical, universally flattering and perennially stylish, it represents a certain
self-assuredness, a trait embodied, of course, by the smooth-talking, slick-haired Pistone.
The particular style of coat sported by Pistone is very much of its time:
single-breasted, wide-lapelled and extending to upper thigh.Costume designers
Aude Bronson-Howard and David Robinson created a pared down, polished yet casual aestheticfor Depp’s character,
teaming the leather coat with dark blue denim creased-front jeans, a forest green knit polo shirt and worn-in black
leather Western-style boots. Simplicity is key to the success of this ensemble: the coat does most of the talking,
while the addition of a few understated accessories, such as a pair of gold-framed aviators and a single Claddagh
ring, contribute to the appeal.
The classicality of Pistone’s attire allows for effortless emulation. Simply invest
in high-quality vintage-inspired pieces that will endure as staples for seasonsto come. For a contemporary iteration of Pistone’s iconic coat, look to
renowned British label Cromford Leather Company: its
sleek Eastwood coat – a double-breasted reddish brown number with brass buckles – brings timeless sophistication to
any outfit, be it casual weekend garb or more formal wear. Pair with a luxurious polo shirt from King &
Tuckfield and dark denim jeans from the east London-based Blackhorse Lane.
It’s a throw-on and go kind of outfit that requires minimal investment of time and energy - perfect for a man on a
mission.
