At New York City’s Comic Con last week, Keanu Reeves made an appearance to promote his new movie “Replicas” and likely field some questions about “John Wick.” He did all of this while wearing the same outfit he’s been sporting for almost two decades.
Reeves’ style, like the actor himself, has gained renewed relevance in 2017 due to the fashion world’s revived interest in everything ’90s. For most people, this resurgence has meant embracing modern takes on the era’s menswear staples—think Vêtements, stonewashed jeans, and graphic-patterned merch. For Reeves, it’s meant sticking to his signature uniform: a relaxed suit, a black T-shirt, and brown boots. He’s donned this look on countless occasions, from red carpet events to late-night TV appearances, while traveling through airports, strolling city streets, and even during those meme-worthy moments where he’s sitting on a bench looking contemplative. Despite its simplicity, his outfit has always managed to strike a balance between effortless cool and just-rolled-out-of-bed casual, without appearing sloppy.
Although Reeves owns other clothing—like jeans, a tan suit from last year, and the suede trucker jacket he wore at the premiere of “Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure”—most of his wardrobe consists of variations on this one outfit. Despite the minimal changes in fit over the years, he still manages to make it look undeniably stylish.
The lesson from Reeves’ commitment to his uniform is that he found a style he loved and just stuck with it. It’s a strategy that doesn’t require celebrity status to emulate. The “Keanu vibe” lies somewhere between dirt bike casual and movie premiere chic. A relaxed-fit suit with a T-shirt can easily move from casual to business-casual, so find tailoring that feels comfortable (not too tight, not too loose) and stock up on your favorite T-shirt. A worn pair of chukkas, like the ones Reeves wears, can add a touch of ruggedness to a basic outfit.
The key to successfully repeating an outfit is the understanding that nobody will really call you out on it (except maybe fashion commentators, but that’s their job). If you feel good, you’ll always look better. And Reeves’ decades-long outfit streak is a compelling argument that wearing the same thing every day (as long as it’s clean) can be just as cool as any current trend. Or, if you stick with it long enough, what you’re wearing might eventually become the latest menswear must-have.