We’re always looking to unlikely style icons here at Proper, something about people wearing great outfits whilst being blissfully unaware of the fact just makes them even more cool. So that’s what has prompted this series, we’re looking at fictional characters that have appeared in some cracking rigs, doing a bit of quick analysis and then giving them a score out of ten. Originally we wanted to run this series with real-life famous people, but then it occurred to us we could get in quite a bit of trouble with photographers, so to avoid legal trouble that’s why we’re going down the fictitious characters route.
Booting off the series is possibly one of the greatest fictional characters of all time – power plant employee, local dullard and the best father in Springfield, Homer Simpson. The Simpsons has been running for what seems like eternity, and in the 700+ episodes of the show, it has to be said that Homer has appeared in a number of pretty stylish get-ups. When he finally decides to change out of his ill-fitting white polo shirt and jeans Homer is a man with an eye for style and a penchant for outerwear – knitted garb, fluffy hats, waterproof jackets, the lot.
Usually, when Homer breaks out of his usual clobber it’s for a special kind of event or occasion, like sailing or fishing or becoming the ploughing kingpin of Springfield. These circumstances mean that he usually dresses with functionality as the main motivator behind his stylistic choices, if it’s raining he’ll wear a coat, if it’s cold he’ll wear a sweater. But sometimes Homer will appear in a fine selection of garb for seemingly no reason, and that’s what we like about him and his choices of wardrobe… much like his actions themselves he doesn’t need to explain them to anyone.
Knit Sweater + Boots
Here’s a rare photo of Homer kicking it with Mr Burns, and he’s certainly dressed to make an impression on his higher-up. His fisherman knit sweater looks to be pretty toasty and has been paired with weatherproof mid-length boots. With that aforementioned functionality driving his stylistic choices, he’s opted to tuck his pants into the boots as to not get his bottoms dirty, bonus points for this.
7/10
Mountaineering Outfit
Homer has gone all out for this outfit, and it has paid off, he looks the business. Bright orange parka with a matching fur-lined hat, a set of navy gloves and he’s even decided to bring out some special rucksack. You can tell a great deal of thought has gone into this rig and for that reason it’s getting a big score.
10/10
Flight Jacket
We haven’t got a whole outfit to look at here, just a single piece of outerwear, but what a piece it is. From the fur collar to the elbow patches, this jacket looks like it has aviation in mind. It also looks as if it could be military issue, perhaps Homer is into vintage workwear? Either way, it’s a great piece of outerwear and he’s pulling it off well, although it would’ve been nice to see it paired with a hat and some trousers.
6/10
Sailing Outfit
Another occasion that Homer has dressed for, this time, an induction into sailing by the local maritime enthusiast, Horatio McCallister – another fellow with a wardrobe that we could do a whole series about. Homer has nailed the lower half of his outfit here, we’re liking the big blue trench coat thing, it even looks a bit chore jacket-y. The knit underneath looks to be pretty solid as well, the only part that’s letting it down is the hat which looks like it wouldn’t be out of place in a 1980s chippy.
5/10
Skiing Outfit
Any kind of winter sport warrants a big outfit, and Homer has paid attention to that rule here. He sports a lovely blue button-up jacket, an orange beanie, burgundy gloves, and it even seems he’s matched his ski boots to his base layer. It’s well thought out and each piece works nicely with the other, we’re also quickly realising that Homer loves a fleece/fur collar. The only thing that might be better than his outfit is Ned Flanders from the same episode, but that’s a story for another day.
8/10
Hunting Outfit
Homer is generally a pretty plainly clothed man, but not when he goes hunting it seems. Here he appears decked out in a matching all-over print jacket and hat, the pattern looks like it could be Springfield’s equivalent to Burberry Nova Check. Look at the way he’s even got his cuffs shooting out the bottom of the jacket a little bit – so tasteful.
9/10
Relaxing Outfit
This outfit is carried solely by the slippers. They show his playful side and also look pretty comfy, as far as outfits go for chilling around the house, this one is up there. Not too sure on the colour combo of his dressing gown though.
6/10
Mr. Plow Outfit
Homer’s outfit he wears when he takes on the persona of Mr. Plow is one of the most iconic get-ups from the entire series. The jacket has that iconic red spell out on the back that matches its collar, cuffs and waistband. Homer has paired this bespoke piece of outerwear with a fleecy hat, and it’s becoming obvious he has a favourite kind of silhouette when it comes to headwear.
10/10
Witness Protection Program Outfit
In this episode, Homer finds himself in the witness protection program, and he’s proud to be part of this club, so much so he’s got a matching T-shirt and cap advertising the fact. This is one of the more casual outfits on this list but Homer has still managed to curate an American streetwear kind of look with it. Evidently his, stylistic prowess knows no bounds.