Decoding the Fashion Code from ‘The Old Guard’

When we think of fashion in film, it’s easy to conjure images of Audrey Hepburn’s timeless elegance in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” or the avant-garde looks of “The Hunger Games.” However, it’s the subtle, character-driven wardrobe choices that often slip under the radar, creating an immersive experience without us even knowing it. “The Old Guard” (2020), a film directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood, proves to be a treasure trove of such sartorial subtleties. A story centered on a covert group of immortal mercenaries, it’s as rich in character depth as it is in style.

This movie is not just another action-packed spectacle; it’s a canvas where each character’s history is painted through their wardrobe. As a self-professed fashion aficionado and cinema enthusiast, I find myself enamored with the task of dissecting each look. Trust me, there’s more to Andromache’s (Andy’s) rugged boots than meets the eye, and Nile’s utilitarian chic is a narrative in itself.

As we embark on this sartorial odyssey, we’ll delve into the wardrobe of each character. Not only will we scrutinize the threads that make up their aesthetic, but we’ll also explore how these choices reflect their centuries-spanning backstories. So, grab your notepad and your espresso, because class is in session, and today’s lecture is on the art of wardrobe storytelling.

Brief character analysis and style breakdown

Fashion, much like a well-composed film, is about storytelling. Every stitch, every fabric choice, and every worn-in crease tells a tale. “The Old Guard” provides a splendid example of how a character’s wardrobe can be a window into their soul. The characters in this film are as complex as they are ancient, and their styles are thoughtfully curated to reflect their individual identities and histories.

• Andy (Charlize Theron) – Imagine a wardrobe that has been through centuries of battlefields and boardrooms. Andy’s clothing is practical, suited for combat, yet it retains an edge of timeless style that nods to her ancient origins.
• Nile (KiKi Layne) – The newcomer to the group, Nile’s style evolves from military-regulation to an individualistic blend of tactical and casual, a sign of her transition into her new immortal life.
• Booker (Matthias Schoenaerts) – Booker’s wardrobe is that of a man who has seen empires rise and fall. It has a disheveled elegance, a touch of the romantic poet that hints at his past and his pain.
• Joe (Marwan Kenzari) and Nicky (Luca Marinelli) – This pair, with their centuries-old romance, sport a complementary aesthetic. Their clothing balances between functional modernity and hints of their long-gone cultural origins.
• Copley (Chiwetel Ejiofor) – As the outsider looking in, Copley’s style is sophisticated yet reserved, reflecting his analytical mind and his role as the bridge between the old world and the new.
• Merrick (Harry Melling) – The antagonist with a tech mogul’s arrogance, Merrick’s wardrobe is sharp, clinical, and as cold as his intentions.

Through their wardrobes, we see the armor they’ve built around themselves, both literally and metaphorically. These characters are a testament to the idea that clothes are never just clothes; they are the armor we wear into battle, the uniforms we don for our daily skirmishes, and the comfort we seek in moments of solitude.

Understanding the aesthetics of ‘The Old Guard (2020)’

The aesthetics of “The Old Guard” are a masterclass in visual storytelling. It’s a blend of gritty realism with a touch of the ethereal – a nod to the immortal nature of its protagonists. To further dissect the film’s aesthetic:

• Historical Influence – Elements from the characters’ pasts peek through in the details, be it a Napoleonic coat or a Scythian-inspired piece of jewelry.
• Modern Practicality – Beyond historical nods, the characters dress for the present day, balancing a modern look with functionality.
• Visual Cohesion – There is a consistent color palette of earth tones and muted colors, which ties the immortal team together visually while allowing their individual personalities to shine through.

Charlize Theron as Andy

Charlize Theron graced the screen as Andromache of Scythia—Andy for short—exuding an aura of timeless warrior ready for combat in the urban jungle. But what exactly makes her look so captivating and how can we emulate it? Let’s break it down.

• The Timeless Leather Jacket: At the heart of Andy’s wardrobe is a rugged, well-worn leather jacket. It’s more than just a piece of clothing; it’s a second skin that tells a story of countless battles and whispers of immortality. This jacket signifies resilience and an eternal cool that never fades, no matter the century.
• Relaxed-Fit Pants: Comfort meets utility in Andy’s choice of pants. They’re not just any pants; they’re relaxed-fit cargo or tactical pants that allow for ease of movement during high-octane action sequences. These pants are a nod to practicality, a cornerstone of Andy’s style philosophy.
• The Combat Boots: Sturdy, reliable, and ever so versatile, the combat boots are a quintessential part of Andy’s ensemble. They ground her look (quite literally) and serve as a testament to her readiness for anything the eternal life throws her way.
• Accessories with a Story: From the scarves that speak of distant lands to the understated jewelry, each accessory Andy dons carries a piece of history, an echo of her long journey through time. It’s the subtle details that round off her outfit, making it deeply personal and unique.

Emulating Andy’s style means embracing the essence of her character — strength, practicality, and a touch of the eternal. It’s about finding pieces that resonate with your personal narrative while keeping functionality at the forefront.

KiKi Layne as Nile

KiKi Layne’s Nile Freeman is the new immortal on the block, and her style evolution throughout the movie mirrors her journey from Marine to a member of the Old Guard. Her look is contemporary, with a military edge that pays homage to her roots. Let’s dissect the key components.

• The Military-Inspired Jacket: Nile’s style is anchored by her military jackets. These pieces are functional, with a structured fit that commands attention and respect. They are symbolic of her discipline and the remnants of her life before immortality.
• Layering for Versatility: Nile’s approach to layering is all about adaptability. She pairs tanks and tees under her jackets, ready to peel off or add on as the situation demands. The layers reflect her transition, her uncertainty, and her adaptability to her new, undying existence.
• Boots Made for Walking … and Fighting: Like Andy, Nile relies on boots — they’re practical, durable, and suitable for combat. Her boots, however, often have a slightly more modern design, reflecting her more recent entry into the world of immortals.

To channel Nile’s style, one must embrace the military aesthetic while injecting a fresh, modern vibe. It’s about balance, mixing the old with the new, and being ready to face the unknown with confidence and adaptability.

Matthias Schoenaerts as Booker

Booker, played by Matthias Schoenaerts, is the heartbroken immortal, a man out of time whose style is a blend of classic and casual. His wardrobe is an amalgam of timeless pieces that have seen centuries and trends come and go. So what are the staples of Booker’s wardrobe?

• The Classic Peacoat: A nod to his Napoleonic roots, Booker often dons a classic peacoat. It’s a piece that has stood the test of time, much like Booker himself. The peacoat is a symbol of enduring style and his refusal to forget the past.
• The Henley Shirt: The Henley is the unsung hero of Booker’s attire. It’s casual yet refined, a comfortable middle ground between a t-shirt and something more formal. It’s a shirt that tells us Booker appreciates the simple pleasures that have remained constant through his long life.
• The Worn-in Jeans: Booker’s jeans are a testament to his laid-back approach to immortality. They’re well-worn, comfortable, and unpretentious, reflecting his down-to-earth nature and his desire for some semblance of normalcy in his ceaseless existence.

Booker’s style is one of understated elegance and comfort. It’s about choosing pieces that have stood the test of time and wear them with a sense of history and a hint of melancholy.

Marwan Kenzari as Joe

Marwan Kenzari’s Joe is a warrior-poet, a lover whose style is as passionate as his undying love for Nicky. His wardrobe is a curated collection of pieces that speak of his rich heritage and his romantic soul. Let’s explore the elements that define Joe’s style.

• The Layered Shirts: Joe layers his shirts with intention, often combining different textures and patterns. It’s a sartorial choice that reflects his complexity and depth, the multiple layers of his character revealed over time.
• The Statement Scarf: Joe often sports a scarf, an accessory that adds a splash of color and a touch of his Middle Eastern roots to his outfit. It’s a piece that speaks of his identity, his history, and his flair for the dramatic.
• The Tailored Pants: Unlike his fellow immortals, Joe leans towards more tailored pants, a nod to his appreciation for craftsmanship and detail. These pants are a silent homage to the beauty he has witnessed throughout his long life.

To emulate Joe’s style is to wear one’s heart on one’s sleeve. It’s about embracing heritage, expressing love through clothing, and not being afraid to show the world who you are through the art of fashion.

Luca Marinelli as Nicky

Luca Marinelli’s Nicky is the embodiment of the noble warrior, his style a mix of practicality and a touch of European sophistication. His wardrobe speaks of his crusader past while staying grounded in the present. Let’s dissect Nicky’s key fashion elements.

• The Functional Sweater: Nicky’s choice of sweaters is always functional, yet with a hint of refinement. They are comfortable, providing warmth and ease of movement, yet they never look out of place in a more sophisticated setting.
• The Durable Jacket: Much like his fellow immortals, Nicky opts for jackets that can withstand the wear and tear of combat. However, his jackets often have a subtle, European cut to them, reminding us of his origins.
• The Classic Boots: Nicky’s footwear of choice are boots that blend the line between utilitarian and classic. They are sturdy enough for battle yet wouldn’t look amiss on the streets of a European capital.

Nicky’s style is about blending the old and the new, the practical and the sophisticated. It’s about wearing clothes that serve a purpose while still paying homage to one’s roots.

Chiwetel Ejiofor as Copley

Chiwetel Ejiofor’s character, Copley, is the outsider looking in, his style a reflection of his analytical and observant nature. His wardrobe is less about combat readiness and more about intellectual pursuit. Let’s delve into the styling choices that make Copley stand out.

• The Scholarly Blazer: Copley’s blazers are tailored, structured, and imbued with a sense of academia. They’re a nod to his role as a historian and the keeper of the Old Guard’s tales. The blazer is his armor in a world of books and secrets.
• The Crisp Shirt: Beneath his blazer, Copley wears crisp shirts, a testament to his meticulous nature. The shirts are often in muted colors, reinforcing his preference for blending into the background, observing from the shadows.
• The Practical Trousers: Copley’s trousers are practical and unobtrusive, allowing him to move swiftly and silently from one historical mystery to the next. They are the foundation of his understated yet intentional look.

Copley’s style is that of the academic, the observer. It’s about dressing with a purpose, with an eye for detail and a respect for the quiet power of knowledge.

Harry Melling as Merrick

Harry Melling’s portrayal of the antagonist, Merrick, is as much a style departure as it is a character one. Merrick’s wardrobe is a stark contrast to the immortals, a blend of corporate greed and youthful arrogance. Let’s analyzse the elements that shape Merrick’s distinctive style.

• The Modern Suit: Merrick’s suits are modern, sharp, and often in lighter shades that set him apart from the darker tones of the immortals. They speak of his wealth, his ambition, and his desire to stand out.
• The Bold Tie: Never one to shy away from attention, Merrick’s ties are bold, often patterned, and a clear signal of his confidence (or overconfidence). They are the exclamation points to his power suits.
• The Sleek Footwear: Merrick’s choice of footwear is sleek, often with a shine that catches the light as he strides confidently (or perhaps, recklessly) towards his goals. They are the finishing touch to his modern mogul aesthetic.

Merrick’s style is a reflection of his character: ambitious, brash, and unapologetically modern. It’s about dressing to impress, to command attention, and to showcase power.

Styling tips for different occasions inspired by ‘The Old Guard’

‘The Old Guard’ offers a wealth of styling inspiration for a multitude of occasions. Whether you’re dressing for a casual day out, a night on the town, or even a formal event, there’s a character whose aesthetic you can channel. Let’s explore how to adapt these immortal styles to different settings.

• Casual Immortal Chic: For a day out with friends or a casual date, take cues from Andy’s leather jacket and relaxed-fit pants, or Booker’s henley and jeans combo. These pieces are comfortable, cool, and exude a laid-back confidence.
• Evening Elegance: Draw inspiration from Joe’s layered shirts and statement scarf for an evening look that’s both sophisticated and personal. Or, take a page from Nicky’s book and choose a functional yet refined sweater paired with tailored pants.
• Formal Immortality: For formal events, why not emulate Merrick’s modern suit but tone down the arrogance with a more muted tie? Alternatively, Copley’s scholarly blazers and crisp shirts offer a more understated approach to formalwear.

Adapting the style of ‘The Old Guard’ characters to different occasions is about finding the right balance between their timeless aesthetic and the demands of the modern world. It’s about making their immortal style work for your mortal life.

Getting the look: summary of outfits and where to buy them

Now, for the pií¨ce de résistance, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of where to buy these timeless pieces to complete your Old Guard-inspired wardrobe. The key is to source items that are not only stylish but also of high quality, ensuring they stand the test of time (even if we can’t all be immortal).

• Leather Jackets and Combat Boots: For the foundational pieces like leather jackets and combat boots, look to brands that specialize in leather goods or military-inspired apparel. Think Schott NYC for jackets and Dr. Martens or Timberland for boots.
• Tailored Blazers and Modern Suits: For blazers and suits that capture the essence of Copley and Merrick, check out contemporary tailors such as Bonobos or Theory, which offer modern cuts and a wide range of sizes.
• Casual Shirts and Henleys: For the perfect henley or casual shirt, brands like J.Crew or Everlane offer quality and sustainability, giving you that Booker-esque timeless casual look.
• Statement Scarves and Tailored Pants: Accessorize with a statement scarf from a brand like A Peace Treaty, which offers unique patterns and quality textiles. For tailored pants that channel Joe and Nicky, retailers such as Hugo Boss or Ted Baker provide that European elegance.

Remember, quality is key when emulating the timeless looks of ‘The Old Guard’. Invest in pieces that will not only last but also tell a story, much like the immortal characters themselves.

Incorporating ‘The Old Guard’ Style elements in daily outfits

Integrating ‘The Old Guard’ aesthetic into daily wear doesn’t require a complete wardrobe overhaul. It’s about incorporating elements of their timeless style into your existing wardrobe, creating a look that’s uniquely yours but with an immortal twist.

• Mix and Match: Don’t be afraid to mix pieces from different characters’ styles. Pair Andy’s leather jacket with Nile’s boots, or Joe’s scarf with Booker’s jeans. It’s about creating a cohesive look that’s eclectic yet harmonious.
• Accessorize Wisely: Sometimes, all it takes is the right accessory to give a nod to your favorite character. A rugged leather belt, a pair of gloves, or a vintage-inspired watch can add that Old Guard touch to any outfit.
• Focus on Fit and Function: Emphasize fit and functionality in your clothing choices. The Old Guard’s wardrobe is about clothes that fit well and serve a purpose, so choose pieces that allow you to move comfortably and confidently through your day.

By incorporating these style elements into your daily outfits, you can channel the immortal cool of ‘The Old Guard’ characters in a way that’s practical for your everyday life.

Conclusion

From the worn leather of Andy’s jacket to Merrick’s sharp suits, the characters of ‘The Old Guard’ offer a treasure trove of fashion inspiration. By breaking down their styles and understanding the essence of each character, we can translate their immortal aesthetic into our own mortal wardrobes. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of rugged charm or a hint of modern sophistication, ‘The Old Guard’ provides the perfect blueprint for timeless style. So go ahead, experiment with these styling tips, and make each piece your own.

And now, I pass the baton to you, fellow fashion enthusiasts, to share your unique style tips in the comments. How would you incorporate ‘The Old Guard’ aesthetic into your wardrobe? What pieces have you found that capture the essence of these characters? Engage with us, and revisit us for the latest updates on fashion advice and exclusive deals!