James Bond is a timeless style icon. A byword for suave sophistication, 007 conjures up mental imagery of impeccable tailoring and sharp eveningwear, and – in Daniel Craig’s case – that pair of blue swim trunks might also spring to mind. But there’s another, more subtle yet equally memorable sartorial moment from Casino Royale – Craig’s 007 debut in 2006. In the movie, a brooding Bond shares a tête-à-tête with M in the Bahamas. Unlike countless Brits abroad, he is dressed to perfection for the Caribbean heat in khakis and a navy blue Sunspel polo shirt.
British heritage brand Sunspel produces the kind of hard-working, well-made staple pieces that should be the foundation of every wardrobe. Performance and durability triumph over trends, and this has been the company’s ethos since it was founded in 1860.
Bond’s polo shirt may be simple in execution but there’s a much deeper story to it. James Bond costume designer Lindy Hemming tasked Sunspel to create all of Craig’s underwear, T-shirts and polos for Casino Royale, and the navy blue number, adapted from the Riviera Polo Shirt, was specially re-cut to fit Craig’s lithe yet muscular physique.
The Riviera Polo Shirt is a signature Sunspel garment developed in the 1950s, inspired by the French Riviera. Made from Sunspel’s own Supima cotton, it’s breathable, comfortable and cut with a modern silhouette. Basically, everything you could possibly want or need for a summer vacation.
So, if you’re in need of some holiday ensemble inspiration, look no further than a modern fashion icon that serves style and substance with a dash of espionage.
£140; sunspel.com
Words: Gemma Billington
Gemma Billington is a London-based writer and editor
