How to Wear Suits Like Robert Downey Jr.

Whether wearing a necktie or bow tie, a velvet men's suit or a black-tie tuxedo, Robert Downey Jr. always looks effortlessly cool and polished. If you want to dress like Tony Stark, aka Iron Man, the most famous comic hero on the big screen, here is the definitive guide to doing it — or at least dreaming about it.

Robert Downey Jr. Style Elements

It's all about the fit when looking as put together as Robert Downey Jr. Knowing how to read men's dress shirt sizes is essential if you want to achieve RDJ's sharpest looks, whether you're channelling Tony Stark's suave persona or the sophisticated style of Hank Palmer from The Judge. Let's look at some key RDJ style elements.

Classic Suit

Downey embodies the look of a classic hero—impeccably styled from head to toe with a taste for the finest suits. Money is no barrier for him, and he enjoys what makes a suit expensive: perfect tailoring, premium materials, and unmatched style. For a similar elevated look, consider a Givenchy two-piece, a Dolce & Gabbana solid suit, or a timeless option by Giorgio Armani. A carefully chosen necktie to match will complete this effortlessly sophisticated look.

The Check Suit

It is impossible not to notice Robert Downey Jr.'s check suit, complemented by his sneakers, a bow tie that's always in style, and round glasses.

The Tuxedo

We have seen him wearing the classic black tuxedo with a white dress shirt and bow tie. He also dares to wear sporty shoes with a tuxedo, and surprisingly, Downey Jr. does not look like a luxury hotel waiter!

The Three-Piece Suit

The three-piece suit is the definition of elegance par excellence. What defines Robert Downey Jr.'s style is that he knows how to combine colours. The idea is that the jacket and pants are the same colour, but the tie is of another tone. If you're very cheeky, try a pastel or other attention-grabbing colour.

The Formal Suit

If you must attend a formal event requiring a suit, take cues from Robert Downey Jr.'s unique style. The actor mostly resorts to black suits on red carpets, but depending on the occasion, you could finish the look with a bow instead of a tie and, for more contrast, a pearl grey shirt.

The Plain Shirt

A plain black or white shirt always gives you a more sophisticated touch. Neutrals are perfect for making you appear formal and well-dressed on any occasion. Pair your shirt with a matching dress pant for a cohesive look.

We recommend a stretch poplin military shirt by Ralph Lauren with a blue tie, a modern-fit stretch poplin dress shirt by the Saks Fifth Avenue Collection or a jacquard dress shirt by the Versace Collection.

The Accessories

Remember that your accessories never go unnoticed and can add elegance to your style. Combining a suit with sneakers is a trademark look for Robert Downey Jr., who doesn't hesitate to attend presentations and other exquisite red carpets in a sporty pair of shoes.

Although his personality generally appears larger than life, RDJ doesn't often wear bright, bold colours. Stick with the basics: black, white, beige, khaki, navy blue, grey, and the like. These colours are elegant and sophisticated.

Final Thoughts

With a style that we can call modern and cool, Downey Jr. is not afraid to combine classic elements with more unexpected details. The actor's trademarks are his mirrored sunglasses, a tailored suit, a planned colour palette, and always stylised hair.

Does Downey Jr.'s wardrobe inspire you? Get out there — swap out your old blazer for a suit, call your barber, and lock in a pair of sporty shoes. Be the superhero of your style!

Peter Marshall is a legend amongst the men of OTAA. Sharp dressed to a point, only his wit has more edge.
An English gentleman, lover of business and an avid blogger