Get the Look: Dress like Top Gun’s Maverick
It’s not the plane, it’s the pilot.
If you’ve seen the movie Top Gun: Maverick, you already know the iconic look of Tom Cruise’s character, Maverick (shoot did we just spoil the movie??). If you have not yet seen the movie, stop living under a rock, watch it, then come back to this post. Go on…we’ll wait.
Ok, now that you are caught up, the “Maverick Look” is just as iconic as the fast flying F-18’s, action sequences, and stunning aerial shots. While we all might want to be as bad A$$ as the Navy pilots in the film- we all can’t just stroll onto an aircraft carrier and take-off in a fighter jet. But, when it comes to getting the iconic look of Maverick, that is something anyone can do with the right clothing and accessories (and budget of course). As they say in the movie- “It’s not the plane, it’s the pilot.” That’s why our crew put together this list of must get items for the Top Gun Maverick look so you too can dress like Maverick. This list dives into the key items that you can grab right now to pull together the same iconic look in the film. So- strap in, buckle-up, lock and load- or whatever it is you need to do, and grab these items for the ultimate Top Gun look.
Aviators
Kicking off our list the probably the most iconic accessories of them all: Aviators. No Aviator's wardrobe is complete without a pair of Top Gun Maverick Aviator sunglasses. First made popular by the original movie Top Gun, these sunglasses have become a symbol of pilots and aviators around the world. The large teardrop-shaped lenses provide excellent coverage and protect against glare, while the slim metal frame ensures a comfortable fit. Whether you're looking to channel your inner Maverick or simply want a great pair of aviator sunglasses, the Top Gun Maverick Aviators are a must-have.
There a few brands we have tested that rank high in quality, comfort, and durability. Our top Aviator’s to scope out are:
Randolph USA
Randolph Military Aviators—worn by U.S. Military Pilots for over 40 years, comes with an embossed military-issued case, custom Randolph dog tag keychain and military-inspired cleaning cloth. Choose from Matte Chrome, 23k Gold or their NEW Matte Black finishes paired with SkyTec™ glass American gray lenses in both polarized and non-polarized options.
$359 on Randolph USA
Tomahawk Shades
The team at Tomahawk Shades knows how to make stylish shades and when we saw they made Aviators we of course grabbed a pair. Why? Well their Aviator frames come in Gunmetal, the lens color is smoke and the frame is made of metal. Gun, smoke and metal all scream fighter pilot. Plus 100% UV protection, and are lightweight yet durable.
[White] T-Shirt
It’s a simple wardrobe add-on, yet the classic white T-Shirt is one of the most staple looks Maverick rocks all movie long. Sure there is a scene where he puts on a black T-Shirt after playing football on the beach, but hey a guys gotta mix it up once in a while, ya know? The bottom line is a classic, well fitted T-Shirt is just the staple piece needed for the Top Gun look. Don’t let the basic color and look fool you- the T-shirt can be worn under a jacket, a flight suit, even a flight jacket. It should be clean, soft, and ready to be style like the man himself.
There are a few classic shirt brands we have tested that all feature a little difference but all rock the classic look and vibe you are going for. Here are our top picks for T-Shirts:
True Classics
True Classic Men's T-Shirts have the perfect shirt feel no matter where or how you wear them. Buttery soft, comfortable, and they make you feel like you're not wearing a simple t-shirt. True Classics shirts have a modern fit that is flattering for all body types. Whether you're muscular or slim, short or tall, True Classic Men's T-Shirts will look great on you.
*** take 25% off your first order through us!
Unbound Merino
We know, the words wool and T-shirt might not go together in your mind, but with Unbound Merino it does. This wool isn’t like your typical itchy sweater. Merino only use superfine Merino wool, resulting in a luxuriously silky soft shirt that’s lighter and much softer than the average Merino or cotton shirt. We love these shirts for dressing up or down- and the best part?…you can sweat your tail off and these shirts won’t stink. Fly a plane, drive by a plane, heck take a flight across country in a plane and you’ll arrive smelling as good as the day you left.
Western Rise
The X Cotton Tee from Western Rise is a performance cotton tee that is ultra-soft, stretches in every direction, wicks moisture, and resists odors. Yeah it’s perfect for all those Navy vibes. The X Cotton is the perfect heavyweight blend of premium cotton, polyester, and stretch. This substantive jersey knit is soft, stretches to move with you, wicks moisture, dries quickly, and resists odor for days with its unique silver ion technology. Beat that in the intensity of a cockpit (even if it’s in a Minivan).
$48 on Western Rise
Bomber Jacket
The infamous bomber jacket has become an iconic piece of clothing. The jacket was originally designed for pilots, and it offers a unique combination of style and functionality. The bomber jacket is made from a sturdy material that can withstand harsh conditions, and it features a variety of pockets that are perfect for storing essential items. The jacket also has a stylish element that is perfect for making a statement. The jacket helps to cement Maverick's status as a top gun pilot, and it also adds to his cool, laid-back persona. Thanks to its appearance in the movie, the bomber jacket has become one of the most popular jackets on the market.
Our crew has found there are a few various styles to wear for the essential Bomber Jacket:
Alpha Industries
A bomber jacket ties the whole look together. The construction of all apparel from Alpha Industries is top notch and takes the best overall and most authentic bomber jacket out there. The midweight CWU 45/P jacket with TOP GUN patches on chest and sleeves inspired by the Maverick bomber jacket is the only way to go .The jacket is constructed with a 100% Nylon Shell and comes with a 100% Nylon Lining. it is waterproof, and the zipper is solid and not flimsy and the sew lines are durably stitched so no fear of tearing, shedding, or losing its structure. the velcro patches and sew on materials are solidly applied.
$325 on Alpha Industries
Jeans
Jeans have been a fashion staple for decades, and they show no signs of going out of style anytime soon. Top Gun Maverick jeans from the iconic movie Top Gun are a staple in the Maverick look. The dark wash and slim fit give these pants a sharp look that is perfect for a night out on the town or a special event. And of course, the fact that they were worn by Tom Cruise in one of the most popular movies of all time doesn't hurt either!
While Tom Cruise clearly wears one style of jeans, it is no question the right fit and pair from any brand can tie a Maverick look together. Our crew found these to be the jeans to go with when considering the next best pair:
Levi's 90's 501 Jeans
The jeans Maverick himself wears in Top Gun? The answer: Levi's 90's 501 Jeans. These jeans are not only the go-to for many guys, like Maverick, but they are seen as some of the most classic jeans ever made. The iconic jean brand is found almost everywhere and can be worn almost anywhere. Classic fit, slim taper, and a dark color will pop on the white shirt above.
$27 on Amazon
Tailor Stitch Sawyer Wash Organic Selvage
Making a solid pair of jeans is all about keeping it simple and doing things the right way, not the easy way. For these Slim Jeans in Sawyer Wash Organic Selvage, Taylor Stitch did just that. They’re woven on old-school shuttle looms from 100% organic cotton and outfitted with custom YKK hardware engineered to last you a lifetime. Because the process involves a heavy garment wash, they feel as soft and well worn as they look. Finished them off with the TS signature map print pocketing and a leather back patch for some added visual appeal.
$188 on Taylor Stitch
Duo Denim
Swet Tailor is a denim alternative, yet looks just like it. Say what? The classic look of denim in an innovative, flexible fabric. This jean alternative will be your closet’s new best friend. Made from Cotton/Viscose/Poly/Spandex blend, these have 5-pocket styling and extra comfort with added stretch in the waistband. Slim Fit and true to size. Slim through seat and thigh, below knee, leg, and opening.
$129 on Swet Tailor
Boots
There's no question that boots are an essential piece of gear for pilots [cough] people. Not only do they provide protection from the elements, but they also help to keep your feet firmly planted in the stirrups. That's why it's no surprise that boots play a starring role in the iconic movie Top Gun. In fact, the boots worn by Tom Cruise in the film have become just as iconic as the movie itself. If you're looking for a pair of boots that will make you feel like a true Maverick, then you need to check out some boots that are sure to give you a boost of confidence when you're in the cockpit- or drivers seat of the car you drive.
While Tom might wear cowboy boots in the first film, a more updated and modern look can do the trick. Here are a few crew finds that we think make great boots for the look:
FRYE Boots
Honestly anything from FRYE is top quality when it comes to boots. But we have an affinity for these stonewashed vintage-like leather boots for a failsafe option for traversing city terrain. They're affixed to a firm Goodyear welted construction and feature eyelets along the smart lace-up closure and a full inside zipper closure. Comfortable and can wear all-day no matter where you take flight.
$358 on FRYE
New Republic
For those wanting something a bit more slim, sleek, and polished, New Republic has some great choices. Designed with a sleek silhouette helps to elevate the look while also adding to the overall style of the Maverick vibe. Adjustable straps for added comfort, and the coloring can go with those blue jeans and jacket.
$104 on New Republic
Amberjack Chelsea
Amberjack shoes are some of the most comfortable we have ever tested so naturally we had to look at the Chelsea boots. Amberjack designed these shoes to feel even better than they look so you’ll be ready for anything. The soles are made with new, proprietary materials that deliver surprisingly sweet comfort, all day long. A-grade full grain leather comes from one of the best tanneries in the world, that means you get incredible quality at a price you won’t find anywhere else. The shoes are then made by masters in Portugal who have decades of experience but also aren’t afraid to get a little futuristic with it. This is a totally different type of shoe.
$195 on Amberjack
Watch
Als, we come to what we think makes any guy feel like a bad-a$$ on the ground or in the sky- a watch. A watch with an aviation-inspired design that has a unique look is just what we need…aside from the need for speed. The watch is such a classic look and a timeless piece that it is no question it made the list. You can go aviation themed, or just simple and classic. No matter the look, grab one that says you are as cool as Maverick.
Our crew has reviewed a lot of watches and these happen to be our favorites by far-
Megalith Watches
What can we say? Its classic, solid with quartz and a leather band. Megalith 8086m men watches with black leather strap, cool look of the rectangular case&black dial and the puristic and clear line of the quartz watch design complement each other ideally and guarantee a show stopping appearance.
$42.99 on Megalith
AVI-8 Watches
Ok, give us a more on brand watch for a Maverick vibe than a watch made by a brand called AVI-8? Go on…we will wait. Could not do it. A tribute to arguably the most iconic plane from the WW2 era, the Hawker Hurricane Classic Chronograph is characterised by a simplicity that echoes the design of its namesake. Clean, bold lines surround the dial on which the colours and graphics celebrate the fighter plane’s simple but striking motif that identified the Hawker Hurricane.
$180 on AVI-8
Watch Gang
Need help picking a watch? We did too at first, so we went with Watch Gang. Watch Gang is a program where you get watches picked and shipped for you. After you sign up, Watch Gang ships out your first watch within 3 business days. After your first watch arrives, you will fall into their normal monthly subscription shipping schedule, and watch watch is shipped out mid-month. Pretty simple and yet exciting to know a new watch is arriving each month!
Coming in for Landing.
There you have it- The tools needed to nail the Maverick look. If you’re looking to emulate Maverick’s style, we recommend exploring the brands above and seeing what fits your own style and interpretation. Each of these brands has a unique look that can help you achieve the right level of badassery for your everyday life. Whether you need a new pair of boots or just want some inspiration for your weekend bomber jacket, these brands have got you covered. Start shopping and take your style up a notch!
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