Icons of Turnbull: Leading Men in Film

Posted 26.06.25

 


As we begin the countdown to Turnbull & Asser’s 140th anniversary, we’re excited to celebrate our rich history of iconic moments—from dressing legendary actors in renowned films to creating attire for pivotal moments in British political history, and countless fascinating stories in between. It’s time to share another remarkable chapter exploring our enduring legacy on the silver screen.  


 


Dressed To Thrill: Turnbull & Asser’s Enduring Bond With 007



Turnbull & Asser’s connection to 007 began with the very first cinematic Bond (Sean Connery) who was dressed by renowned shirtmaker Michael Fish at our Jermyn Street store. Bond’s effortlessly sophisticated look in Dr. No set the sartorial standard for 007 films, a legacy that has continued through the years. 



 Celebrated costume designer Lindy Hemming enlisted Turnbull & Asser to design pieces that embodied Bond’s timeless style. A standout creation from this partnership is the iconic tie featured in Tomorrow Never Dies (1997). Its sharp design and flawless craftsmanship further cemented Turnbull & Asser’s place in cinematic history.


Discover the James Bond Collection




Jay Gatsby: The Great Gatsby (1974) 



In F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby, wealth, taste, and excess are epitomised in Jay Gatsby’s famous display of luxurious shirts. For the 1974 film adaptation, producer David Merrick turned to Turnbull & Asser to recreate this dazzling moment. A spectrum of beautifully crafted shirts housed in trunks inscribed with “Turnbull & Asser” took centre stage, adding an air of authenticity to Gatsby’s opulent world. This unforgettable collaboration highlights the brand’s ability to bring literature’s most stylish characters to life.  


Discover the Great Gatsby Collection





Indiana Jones: The Temple of Doom (1984) 



Turnbull & Asser’s craftsmanship found its way to the Shanghai nightclub scene in Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom. Costume designer Anthony Powell trusted the brand to create Indiana Jones’s signature wing-collar dress shirt and bow tie. This partnership ensured that Harrison Ford’s portrayal of the legendary archaeologist struck the perfect balance of adventure and sophistication, showcasing Turnbull & Asser’s versatility in adapting to Hollywood’s most demanding roles.  




Sir Michael Caine: A Lifelong Turnbull & Asser Gentleman 



From Alfie (1966) to Kingsman: The Secret Service (2015), Sir Michael Caine has relied on Turnbull & Asser to define his unmistakable style. His partnership with tailor Doug Hayward seamlessly combines Hayward’s impeccable suits and Turnbull & Asser’s signature shirts, resulting in some of cinema’s most iconic sartorial moments. Caine’s effortlessly sharp looks in The Italian Job (1969), Get Carter (1971), and California Suite (1978) stand as enduring examples of Turnbull & Asser’s dedication to craftsmanship and its role in shaping the wardrobe of Britain’s most distinguished actors. 





Dressed to Disturb: Turnbull & Asser’s Role in The Dark Knight (2008) 



Turnbull & Asser’s expertise in sartorial storytelling extends beyond James Bond to Gotham City, where we played a defining role in shaping one of cinema’s most infamous villains. For The Dark Knight (2008), our artisans crafted the Joker’s distinctive tie, worn by the late Heath Ledger in his Oscar-winning performance. Its semi-psychedelic green pattern was carefully selected to mirror the character’s anarchic yet calculated nature—seemingly chaotic, yet meticulously designed beneath the surface. Perfectly complementing his waistcoat and the green accents in his hair, the tie became an integral part of the Joker’s chilling aesthetic, further cementing Turnbull & Asser’s legacy in cinematic history.

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