The Sopranos is still the undisputed greatest TV show of all time, but that's not what we're here to talk about. We're here to talk about the style tips we can all learn from Silvio Dante, a.k.a. the most stylish motherfucker on the show.
Tony's consigliere and manager of the Bada Bing titty bar, Silvio (played to perfection by Steven Van Zandt) was my favorite character. He rarely became the centre of attention but he was always there when he was needed; whether it was to crack jokes, offer some sound advice, or pull off a particularly troublesome killing. But, for me, it was his style that really set him apart from the other fellas. When it comes to Silvio Dante's style, you can't simply focus on his amazing haircut and knack for suits, you have to embrace the whole package.
Now, in a fashion world seemingly helmed by Alessandro Michele's wild and unashamedly showy vision for Gucci, not to mention a resurrection of suiting and bowling shirts — little Sil's style has perhaps never been so relevant.
Here are five tips to learn from Silvio Dante's style.
Go Nuts With Wild Shirts
The key to Sil's spring and summer looks is a dazzling array of shirts. They come in a mind-boggling amount of different designs and colors, but, as a general rule, he sticks to bowling shirts in the day time and smarter shirts in the evening. The only real discerning similarity between them all is that each one is a bold statement piece. Wild patterns, uneven pinstripes in odd colors, snakeskin-like silk materials — you name it, you'll probably find Silvio Dante wearing it.
You'll never find him buttoned up to the top, so wear them either completely unbuttoned with a white tank top underneath, or with at least three (go for four) undone to show off your jewelry and a bit of chest hair.
Check out our full guide on bowling shirts.
Don't Be Scared to Throw on a Suit or Jacket
Unless you still have to wear one for work or you're an early adopter of officecore, chances are you haven't worn a suit recently. Some of us at Highsnobiety are curious about how to style suits correctly, but when in doubt just have a little look at that guy above.
The cream colored two-button with its wide shouldered fit and leather lapels, the sovereign rings, the mad checkerboard print shirt, the facial expression, the hair, the crumbling cigarette. Now tell me again, what do you have against throwing on a jacket every now and then?
Going from no suit to full suit is probably too big of a jump to make overnight. However, there's no reason why you can't throw a jacket over a shirt and a pair of trackies, or wear a pair of smart trousers with a T-shirt and a leather jacket. If you are feeling up to it though, you can check the items below to get close to Silvio Dante's suit style.
Gold Jewelry Makes Everything Look Better
Sil knows the power and importance of jewelry. While often overlooked, a splattering of sparkly pieces can change an average or a boring 'fit into something a whole lot ballsier. For Silvio Dante, there are only two rules: it has to be gold and you have to wear a lot of it.
His gold cross pendant necklace features throughout all six seasons, paired interchangeably with gold bracelets, watches, sovereign rings — but never earrings.
GP Cuban Chain
Hatton Labs
Slick It Back
Silvio's slicked-back hairstyle could be considered a bit dated, but we see no reason why this one can't stick around a little longer. The big quiff and neatly trimmed sides is said to enhance the squareness of your jaw and face and add toughness to your demeanor. Just take it easy on the gel when it comes to styling it.
Don't Give a Fuck
The most important tip we can all learn from Silvio Dante is to simply not give two fucks about what anyone thinks about you. Fancy wearing that leather blazer over a tee and some track bottoms? Do it. Fancy wearing nothing but a pair of slacks and a tank? Do it.
But don't just listen to me. If you need inspiration, listen to the big man himself in this 41-minute supercut of his best moments below.
Need more TV-inspired fashion? Check of some Fez from HBO's Euphoria best 'fits
