If you’re a fan of American Psycho, you’re familiar with Patrick Bateman’s iconic style, particularly his signature suit. Its sleek lines and monochromatic color scheme of Patrick Bateman’s suit have become synonymous with his character. If you’re like me, you probably even thought of emulating that style.
If so, we’ve got you covered. In this article we’ll dive into what makes Patrick Bateman’s suit so iconic, and explore how you can make it your own.
The Iconic Patrick Bateman Suit
In American Psycho, the character of Patrick Bateman is known just as much for his chilling demeanor as he is for his impeccable fashion sense. One of the most iconic aspects of his style is his suit – a monochromatic ensemble that perfectly reflects his professional yet dark personality.
To better know how to emulate this appearance, let’s first take a quick look at the key features of the Patrick Bateman suit and why it’s so unique.
Material
The suit is made from a high-quality wool, which gives it a refined and sophisticated look. The wool is woven in a way that creates a subtle herringbone pattern, adding depth and texture to the fabric.
Wool is a premium material that not only makes the suit durable and long-lasting, but also gives it an air of luxury. Perfectly fitting for Bateman’s character.
Color
Patrick Bateman’s suit is a dark, charcoal gray – a color that is both timeless and modern. This color not only looks great on screen, but also helps to convey the dark and brooding nature of Bateman’s character.
The monochromatic look of the suit is also reflective of the minimalist and stylish aesthetic, representing a timeless look that works just as well today as it did in Bateman’s fictional 1980s.
Style
The American Psycho suit is a single-breasted, two-button design with narrow lapels and a slim fit. The slim cut of the suit is particularly important, as it emphasizes Bateman’s lean physique and creates a sharp, modern silhouette.
The narrow lapels also give the suit a sleek, sophisticated look that is very much in line with Bateman’s character.
Significance
Bateman is obsessed with appearances and sees his looks as a representation of his power and success. His suit is not only an important part his character, but also plays a significant role in the film itself. The monochromatic, minimalist look of the suit reflects the cold and calculated nature of his character, while the slim fit and impeccable tailoring convey his attention to detail and obsession with perfection.
The Patrick Bateman suit screams confidence and control, two qualities that are essential to Bateman’s character.
Designer of Patrick Bateman’s Suit
The designer of the American Psycho suit is a bit of a mystery, as there were no official credits given for costume design in the film. It is believed that the suits were custom-made by the Italian menswear brand Brioni, which is known for its impeccable tailoring and luxurious materials.
It’s no surprise that a brand like Brioni would be chosen to design Bateman’s suit, as it perfectly captures the sophisticated and stylish nature of the character.
Emulating the Patrick Bateman Suit
Nobody wants to look like a psychopath, but part of Patrick Bateman’s charm – both in real life, as well as within the fictional world of American Psycho – is Bateman’s charism. From Bateman’s iconic hair style, to his confidence, everything about Bateman oozed success and confidence. It’s no wonder many would want to model their own appearance in some respect after Bateman, including emulating his suit.
Here are some occasions where the Patrick Bateman suit might be appropriate, along with some tips on how to achieve the look without going overboard.
Formal Events
The Patrick Bateman suit is a great choice for formal events, such as weddings, galas, and black-tie affairs. Its sleek and modern design can help you stand out from the crowd, while the monochromatic color scheme provides a timeless and elegant look. For formal events, consider opting for a slim-fit, gray suit with a crisp white shirt and black tie. Pair it with polished black shoes to complete the look.
Business Meetings
The American Psycho suit is also a great choice for business meetings and other professional settings. Its sleek lines and minimalist design can help you convey confidence and authority.
For a business meeting, consider opting for a slim-fit, navy blue suit with a light blue shirt and dark blue tie. Pair it with black or brown shoes to complete the look.
Tips for Achieving the Patrick Bateman Look
It’s important to keep things simple and understated. Avoid loud patterns or colors, and instead opt for a minimalist design with clean lines and monochromatic color scheme.
Pay attention to the fit of your suit. It should be slim-fitting but not too tight, with a tailored silhouette that flatters your body type. Accessorize with a classic watch, pocket square, or cufflinks to add a touch of sophistication, but avoid going overboard with too many accessories.
Why the Suit is Iconic
With all the nuanced details of the Patrick Bateman suit, it is no wonder it has become an iconic symbol of power and style. Its minimalist design, sleek lines, and monochromatic color scheme have made it an enduring fashion statement that continues to inspire designers and fashion-conscious individuals.
Influence in the Film
In the movie American Psycho, the suit is an essential part of Patrick Bateman’s meticulously crafted image. The slim, modern style of the suit reflects his attention to detail and obsession with perfection, while the monochromatic color scheme and impeccable tailoring convey a sense of power and sophistication.
Although Bateman’s character is complex and often disturbing, the suit itself remains a timeless piece of fashion that is appreciated for its design and aesthetics.
Lasting Impact
The lasting impact of the Patrick Bateman suit can be attributed to its timeless design and the enduring popularity of American Psycho as a cultural touchstone. The suit has become a visual shorthand for power, style, and sophistication, and is instantly recognizable to fans of the film.
Its influence on fashion trends and contemporary menswear is a testament to its enduring appeal and the impact it has had on popular culture. Tom Ford, American filmmaker, has even cited Patrick Bateman’s suit as an influence for his own modern and minimalistic style.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Patrick Bateman suit has become an iconic symbol of power and sophistication, thanks to its timeless design and enduring popularity as a cultural touchstone.
Emulating this iconic look can be achieved by keeping things simple and understated, with a focus on clean lines, a monochromatic color scheme, and a tailored silhouette that flatters your body type.
Whether you’re attending a formal event or a business meeting, incorporating the Patrick Bateman suit into your wardrobe can help you exude confidence and authority.
