Remembering David Hockney, fashion's menswear icon who made colour cool

David Hockney's death on June 11 at age 88 marks a figure who fused art with flamboyant menswear to redefine color in fashion. Throughout his career, he favored bold hues and unconventional pairings that challenged conventional menswear. Stories about his outfits—from a pink-striped rugby shirt to pistachio sport coats—show how his public image blurred the lines between art and attire. Even a moment with King Charles, who complimented his yellow galoshes, highlights how his wardrobe captured attention beyond galleries. Industry observers note that his fearless use of color inspired designers to embrace color as a masculine staple.

His fashion influence extended alongside his evolving artwork, with looks matching shifts in his work from early knit ties to later, more experimental pieces. Experts describe him as a “style icon” whose confidence translated into wearable expressions for years. His signature features—flaxen hair, chunky spectacles, and impish expressions—remained instantly recognizable as his work continued to evolve. The obituary underscores how he balanced changing times with a personal, enduring style. As he aged, his outfits remained bold, often mixing humor with high-fashion references that encouraged others to experiment.