Rod Stewart’s Style Icons: The People Who Inspired His Look

When you think of Rod Stewart, what pops into your mind? That unmistakable raspy voice? His chart-topping hits? Or perhaps his ever-evolving, iconic style that’s been turning heads for decades? From the Mod vibes of the 1960s to the glam rock extravagance of the ’70s, Rod Stewart’s look is not just fashion—it’s a statement. But have you ever wondered who influenced this legendary style? Today, we’re diving deep into Rod Stewart’s style icons and the fabulous fashion figures who inspired his unforgettable image.

The Mod Revolution: Starting with the ’60s

Back in the swinging ’60s, the Mod style was all about sharp tailoring, clean lines, and a rebellious yet polished edge—a style that Rod Stewart didn’t just witness but embraced. The Mod movement was a British cultural explosion, influencing everything from music to fashion, and Rod walked straight into this trendsetting wave.

One of Rod’s earliest inspirations came from the clean-cut aesthetics of the era’s musical giants like The Beatles and The Who. Their sleek suits and tailored looks undoubtedly rubbed off on young Rod. But more importantly, the sultry, rebellious charm of the era’s Mod culture fueled his fashion evolution.

David Bowie: The Ultimate Glam Rock Gamechanger

If Rod Stewart’s style evolution had a major turning point, it was the arrival of glam rock in the ’70s— and no one embodied this movement better than David Bowie. Bowie's fearless approach to fashion helped redefine what rock star style could be, and that certainly gave Rod the green light to go bold.

Bowie’s use of vivid colors, theatrical makeup, and androgynous flair echoed in Rod’s own style. Remember those feathered locks, leather jackets, and flamboyant shirts? That’s Rod paying homage to Bowie’s avant-garde glam. In fact, Bowie’s influence helped Rod step outside the conventional rock star box and carve out a space for himself as a style chameleon who wasn’t afraid to experiment.

The Rolling Stones: Rock ’n’ Roll Attitude Meets Fashion

Rock stars are known for their larger-than-life personas, but when it comes to attitude and raw energy, it’s hard to top the legendary Rolling Stones. Mick Jagger and Keith Richards weren’t just music powerhouses—they were ultimate style icons who injected a rebellious cool factor into everything they wore.

Rod Stewart’s leather jackets, skinny jeans, and vintage tees certainly channel the Stones’ unapologetic rock ’n’ roll vibe. Their rough-and-ready look helped shape Rod’s image, combining nonchalance with swagger—a mix that screams classic rock cool.

Steve McQueen and the Hollywood Cool Factor

Outside of the music world, Rod Stewart also drew inspiration from Hollywood’s golden era, specifically from screen legends like Steve McQueen. Known as “The King of Cool,” McQueen’s effortless style—think fitted leather jackets, bandanas, and timeless casualwear—resonated with Rod’s laid-back yet stylish approach.

McQueen’s style gave Rod a dose of classic American masculinity, mixing rugged charm with sophistication. This Hollywood influence added another dynamic layer to Rod’s look, balancing rockstar flamboyance with cool boy-next-door vibes.

Motown Magic: The Influence of Marvin Gaye and Soul Classics

The style isn’t just about clothes—it’s about attitude and vibe. Rod Stewart’s soulful performances and smooth swagger indicate a deep influence from soul and Motown legends like Marvin Gaye. The suave suits and sharp looks of the Motown era brought a touch of elegance to Rod’s already magnetic presence.

By blending soulful style with rock influences, Rod created a signature look that was both edgy and polished—a true reflection of his diverse musical and fashion inspirations.

The Skate Punk Era and Punk Rock Rebellions

Fast forward to the late ’70s and early '80s, punk rock stormed the scene, shaking up fashion with ripped tees, studded leather, and rebellious hairstyles. While Rod never fully dove into punk aesthetics, he definitely borrowed some of the edginess and attitude from this era.

His rough textures, layered necklaces, and daring outfits mirror the punk scene’s fearless spirit, showing that Rod kept his finger on the pulse of evolving trends while always maintaining his unique flair.

Why Rod Stewart’s Style Still Matters Today

Even now, decades later, Rod Stewart’s style remains influential. His fearless blend of Mod sophistication, glam rock flair, rock ’n’ roll rebellion, and Hollywood cool ensures he stands out in the celebrity fashion scene. For fans of Rod and fashion enthusiasts alike, his style journey offers a masterclass in how legendary musicians use fashion as a tool for self-expression.

What makes Rod’s look truly iconic is how he mixes various influences—British Mod sharpness, Bowie’s glam drama, Rolling Stones’ raw edge—into something unmistakably his own. He’s proof that great style isn’t about following rules but about making your own.

Final Thoughts: Rod Stewart—A Style Chameleon Forever

Rod Stewart’s style icons range from legendary rockstars to Hollywood legends and soul masters. Inspired by David Bowie’s boldness, the Rolling Stones’ rebellious spirit, and the polished look of Motown greats, he created a style that’s as unforgettable as his music.

Whether you’re a fan of classic rock or simply love eye-catching style, Rod Stewart’s fashion evolution reminds us all to be bold, mix influences, and never be afraid to express ourselves. So next time you see Rod rocking that signature feathered hairstyle and killer leather jacket, remember: there’s a story and a whole squad of style legends behind that look.

By koalafriend

Tags: Rod Stewart style, Rod Stewart fashion, Rod Stewart inspiration, David Bowie fashion, Rolling Stones style, classic rock style, glam rock fashion, 1960s Mod fashion, 1970s glam rock, rock star style icons