Style Spotlight: Paul Newman

A jack of all trades, Paul Newman lived a life of adventure and spontaneity. He was a renowned Hollywood star who won countless awards, a talented racecar driver who competed for the Sports Car Club of America, and a passionate philanthropist who established multiple charitable organizations. The list continues, as Newman also served in The United States Navy, appeared in Tony and Emmy-nominated Broadway revivals founded Newman’s Own food product line, and so much more. He truly did it all. 

Although he passed away in September 2008, his success was undeniable and many continue to look towards him as an everyday inspiration. While his on-camera confidence is envied, people also admire his off-camera fashion choices. From well-tailored suits to leather accents, Newman sported effortlessly cool looks before they were even coined as such. While he had his staples, he continued to develop his style throughout his life. 

Paul Newman was never a flashy dresser, but the way in which he utilized basics created sophisticated outfits. Once he stepped into the Hollywood spotlight, he began to get dressed by professionals, but prior to that, his strategy of styling formed looks that matched his intellectual character. He was always humble and mature, which came across in his simple, but put-together accessories like belts and jackets. He wore preppy loungewear on casual days, choosing clean, white sneakers and blue sweaters. Another constant preference was for muted palettes. Choosing heather greys, thin stripes, collared white tops, and similar pieces allowed him to mix and match these pieces, keeping up with his sophisticated but young look. He also loved denim, picking mid-stone wash jeans. Attending Kenyon College, Ohio University, and Yale University for parts of his life, these elements can be drawn to his academic days.

For larger events, Newman adapted a classic suit and tie look to be his own. Attending philanthropic events or classier dinners meant a black-and-white traditional ensemble, but it was never that simple. Rather than sticking to harsh lines and intense shoulder panels, he opted for a more unstructured design. His suit normally also had a bit of texture, whether that be a cotton cloth or a tweed roughness. To top it all off, he loved a touch of silver, popping the shine in his cufflinks or tennis bracelet. 

Although these looks evolved based on his stage of life, Paul Newman was committed to the addition of a watch. Not only was it practical for a person with a life as busy as him, but it added that bit of elevation to every outfit. He often leaned toward the more vintage chocolate or black style, with leather bands. Despite these likings, his consistent selection was the 1968 Rolex Daytona. With an intricate dial functioning as a timekeeper, the Daytona was a prized possession for Newman. It was a gift from his wife Joanne Woodward when he began to race, who then gave it to his daughter's boyfriend, James Cox. With most of the proceeds going to the Paul Newman Foundation, Cox ultimately sold it for $17.75 million. It set the record as the highest amount ever paid for a watch at an auction, making Newman's legacy even more apparent.

To truly fit the Paul Newman model, though, his shades are a must. Newman relied on his statement sunglasses when going to sporting games, car and motorcycle races, outdoor fundraisers, or any summer or spring events. They were always large and dark, keeping his look cool and chic. Similar to a wider Aviator style, his most iconic favorites were his Carrera Champions. 

Paul Newman had a style that could be recreated from a night out at the theatre to a day on the boat. No matter where you’re going, parts of his fashion can be taken with you and easily replicated, as he continues to be a timeless icon to people everywhere.