Cool, clean, and sharp. These are the three words that best describe Mod fashion. And in contrast to the fleeting trends today, it was a full-blown cultural shift that combined music, modernism, and a love for tailored style with a touch of rebellious twist on top.
Mod fashion always looked forward, and that’s why while the movement was rooted in the past, its influence is very much alive to this day. Musicians, actors, models, all who represented the era became icons of fashion that still inspire how we dress today.
And here are the stars of the era:
Steve Marriott
The frontman of The Small Faces, Steve Marriott, lived and breathed what can only be described as Mod style at its most authentic. When we think of him, the images of sharp suits, rollneck jumpers, and Cuban-heeled boots inevitably flood our minds. Oh, and the attitude, of course. Marriott had this boyish charm about him, which, together with some casual pieces like the iconic Harrington jacket, remains, to this day, a blueprint for modern Mod dressers.
Michael Caine
Michael Caine, Michael Caine… With those thick-rimmed glasses, fitted suits, and unique charisma, it’s no wonder his early film roles (The Italian Job, Funeral in Berlin, Alfie) turned him into a Mod icon. He made the working-class look cool and stylish. Today, his signature mix of classic tailoring and casual cool is a masterclass in timeless menswear.
Paul Weller
Nicknamed The Modfather. And for a good reason. He was the frontman of The Jam and later The Style Council. He revived Mod fashion from the dusty cupboard of time in the late ‘70s and made sure it’s alive and thriving through the decades. He particularly favoured the crisp button-downs, Italian-cut suits, and desert boots. All still cool, still dapper today. Weller’s look will be forever sharp and always evolving with the times.
Mick Jagger
Jagger was a case of a rockstar with Mod leanings. His early look, which favoured slim trousers, tailored jackets and bold patterns, often blurred the lines of what we understand by dandyism and rebellion. He had the ability to mix flamboyance with precision tailoring that still inspires contemporary rock and mod fashion. Especially for men unafraid to experiment.
David Hemmings
Remember Blow-up? The 1966 thriller mystery, thanks to which David Hemming became the face of the swinging London scene. His lean silhouette, mop-top hair, and modish ensembles he loved (black turtlenecks and structured blazers) all captured the artistic edge of the movement. It’s one of the most understated, camera-ready looks that remains endlessly referenced still.
Brian Jones
Here comes The Rolling Stones’ original style chameleon: Brian Jones. The man who brought boldness to Mod with his penchant for velvet blazers, patterned shirts, and androgynous flair. Without a doubt, he had a fearless sense of style that foreshadowed glam, so it’s no wonder he remains an inspiration for those who dress to stand out.
Twiggy
Of course, we couldn’t leave out Twiggy, the poster girl of the whole era. Her cropped hair, shift dresses, and graphic eyeliner on her big doe eyes shaped the female side of the movement. Decades later, her youthful energy and playfulness still feel fresh and modern.
Mary Quant
The mother of the miniskirt. Yes, Mary Quant was the designer who democratised fashion for women and gave Mod the signature piece. Her contribution was not just aesthetic; it was very much political. She helped women claim fashion as a form of self-expression. And thanks to her impact, she is still being felt every time someone chooses fun over conformity in their style.
The Signature Mod Pieces You Still Need Today
Having met the celebrities that shaped fashion, it’s time we analyse what it was in Having met the celebrities that shaped fashion, it’s time we analyse what it was in what they wore that’s still iconic. Here are some pieces of Mod that will seamlessly fit in your modern wardrobe, and, in fact, make it better:
- Chelsea Boots — sleek, comfortable, and perfect for dancing the night away through the London nights.
- Slim suits — always tailored, clean, and never overdone. If you love a sharp silhouette, you definitely need one of those.
- Mini Dresses & Shift Silhouettes — for women, such items are youthful and liberating. Own yourself and your freedom, embrace the mini dress.
- Statement knitwear — polo necks, colour-block jumpers, and bold geometrics—is all very Mod and will improve your winter wardrobe for the better. If you come across these, be sure.
A Fashion Legacy Built to Endure
What ties all these icons together is their fearless approach to fashion. They were anything but afraid to be bold, original, and cool. The Mod ethos lives on in today’s slim silhouette, bold prints, and minimalist-meets-maximalist attitude. Are you suiting up or going full-casual? Well, a touch of Mod will add that instant edge you need. Just look at the icons for inspiration.