In the conversation of iconic film anti-heroes, Travis Bickle should be one of the first names on your lips, and in the conversation of stylish iconic film anti-heroes, he should be the first. Bickle’s style isn’t just a look—it’s a statement.
In Taxi Driver, De Niro portrays one of the Hollywood’s most complex and troubled individuals, and within Travis’s character lies a wardrobe that’s as dark and brooding as his psyche. From military surplus jackets to jeans that have most likely been washed once in the last calendar year, Travis’s clothing is more than just fabric— it’s a visual representation of his alienation, disillusionment, and his fractured sense of self.
Travis is a misfit and this is something that gets perpetuated the further you get into the film, and so are his stylistic choices. At the beginning of the flick, Travis looks somewhat clean cut – nice shirt, blazer and tidy shoes. By the end? He’s anything but. Dodgy mohawk, bloody field jacket and a truly mad look in his eyes.
In an era where fashion often communicates self-expression and individuality, Travis’s outfit choices reflect something far more complex: a desperate search for purpose in a city that feels as cold and unforgiving as he does. His gear is more than a costume; they are integral to understanding his descent into madness.
A viewing of Taxi Driver often leads us straight into the depths of the web, scouring high and low for Bickle inspired bits. From military field jackets to oversized coats and aviators, we could spend hours getting lost in the surplus and workwear sections of every online retailer worth their salt.
To save you some time doing the very same, we’ve put together a curated list of gear inspired by the man himself, with all items being handpicked from EQVVS.
Universal Works Parachute Field Jacket
Obviously we had to start with the field jacket, and we reckon this one is almost spot on – add a ‘We Are The People’ badge and some blood and it’d be there. Great pockets, great collar, great colour.
Carhartt WIP Relaxed Fit Landon Jeans
Travis’s activities, especially towards the third act, require hardwearing cotton – and that’s exactly what you’re getting from these Carhartt Landon Jeans. Just like Mr. Bickle himself, these jeans are no nonsense, and get the job done.
Paul Smith Casual Fit Pattern Shirt
The shirting worn by Travis’s is easily the least distressing part of his appearance, in fact it’s actually pretty calming – lightweight, airy and nicely patterned. This Paul Smith shirt looks to be up his street, right down to the colour.
Ray-Ban Old Aviator Sunglasses
In contrast to the shirting, his choice of eyewear is most definitely distressing. The aviators only come out towards the end of the film, almost to function as a half-hearted disguise from what Travis knows he’s become. Anyway, these Ray Bans look nice, don’t they?
BOSS 3-Pack Lightweight T-Shirt
Travis Bickle is a man that does not take risks when it comes to his choice of T-shirt – they’re always white. Which makes our job easy, so here’s a three pack of BOSS tee’s. Sorted.
Norse Projects Carsten Solotex Twill Longsleeve Shirt
Now, this is nice. Definitely too nice for Travis. This is something he’d go for if it all ended up working out with Betsy.
Barbour Lifestyle Readhead Chukka Boots
It’s common knowledge that the streets of New York aren’t the most palatable, so just imagine what they were like back in the ’70s, yeah, filthy. To navigate these streets Travis sensibly opts for an old pair of brown leather boots, and we reckon these Barbour Lifestyle one’s are a good modern equivalent.
Polo Ralph Lauren Classic Oxford Shirt
As we mentioned, the only playful part of Travis’s outfits are his shirts, but perhaps we’re optimistic and thinking he’d venture this colourful. Still a nice shirt though.
Paul Smith Leather Signature Stripe Keeper Belt
Tucked tee’s are an intrinsic feature of this taxi driver’s outfits, so obviously a quality belt is of utmost priority. We like that the loop on this belt would match some of his shirts, doubt Travis would care about trivial details like that though.
AMI Classic Fit Jeans
We’re wary that perhaps the Carhartt jeans would be slightly too baggy for Travis’s taste, so these AMI ones have been included for a more typical ’70s look.
Clarks Originals Wallabee
Does Travis Bickle wear Wallabee’s? No, not as far as we know. But we reckon he’d be into them – by his choice in firearm we can tell he’s a fan of quality, robust design and no-nonsense aesthetics and that is exactly what Wallabee’s offer.
