As the story goes, having beaten off scissors and, rather miraculously, paper, Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson decided that he would conquer the world of wrestling. After he smelt what was cooking and became one of the greatest entertainers to ever step inside the squared circle, he set his eye on Hollywood, where it could be argued the term ‘box office gold’ was coined for him. A mesmerising run of profit-making films followed, and before long Johnson became the most bankable star in Tinseltown, commanding an average $22 million for his services on film.
It goes without saying that to get to such a level, you have to have it all: the looks, the mega-watt personality, the muscles, the business nous and of course, the style. The latter is no mean feat, considering Johnson’s hulking frame (20-inch biceps, 31-inch thighs) is hardly tailor-made for clothes. But with the help of his stylist, Ilaria Urbinati, who has also worked with the likes of Rami Malek and Donald Glover, Johnson has been able to cultivate a sophisticated man about town look that is a fountain of inspiration for other ripped guys.
The Look
The California native’s suave style is rooted in tailoring. Eschewing on-trend slim fits for more classic cuts that work for his shape, Johnson manages to rock a timeless look that works for him and his build. Bespoke garms and heavy alterations are key, as additional room is likely needed under the arm and around the shoulders for more freedom of movement than you would usually get in a suit you can buy off the peg.
Colours are usually muted and neutral, nothing too bright or garish, with a large check often the only statement. As is to be expected, trousers are straight, with a slight taper to accommodate his thunderous thighs, while shoes are smart in the form of mocassins, Derbies or luxury sneakers.
Inspiration: Ilaria Urbinati, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Muhammad Ali
Go-To Brands: Todd Snyder,
Follow Him: @therock
Two Tickets To The Gun Show Please
When he’s not schooling Hollywood jabronis on how to fill movie theatres, Johnson is giving the rest of us a masterclass in how a T-shirt should fit. Baggy, awkwardly long sleeves can make even impressive arms look like Twiglets. But by hitting the mid-bicep, they accentuate hard-won gains, while a body that doesn’t cling too tightly helps swerve the gym bunny look.
