‘Preppy but masculine’: how actor Sean Keenan nails his style

Each week, we quiz a prominent person about their style and the inspiration behind it. Ahead, actor Sean Keenan, who is best known for his lead role in Nitram and currently stars in the TV series No Escape.

“I grew up in a country town in Western Australia, so when it came to fashion, there were surf stores and that was it.” Credit: Rudolf Zverina

How would you describe your style? It’s simple and no-fuss.

What’s the oldest thing in your wardrobe? A pair of Australian corduroy work pants from the 1920s; they’re oversized with a bit of a flare, I wear them rolled up. Also, I have my dad’s Red Wing riding boots from the ’70s – they’re beaten up and worn in but still look great.

And the most recent addition? A black trench coat from Japanese label Comoli. I feel like a samurai wearing it.

A Cartier “Tank” watch ensures Keenan stays stylish and punctual.

What would you wear…
…on a first date? A nice button-down shirt, jeans and leather boots.
…on a plane? Track pants, a tee, Acne Studios wool jacket, a scarf I can also wear as an eye mask and trainers.
…on the red carpet? I’m a suit guy. It’s all about colour – deep green or blue, for example. I wore a beautiful blue Versace suit to the Barbie premiere; it was my Ken look.

What’s your favourite fashion era? I’m most influenced by the ’90s, with a lot of nostalgia for the denim, flannelette shirts and grunge music.

Who are your favourite designers? I love P Johnson for suits, Celine for the simplicity. And I’m friends with Emma Mulholland, so I wear a lot of her label Holiday – it’s great for the beach or just being out in Sydney on a sunny day.

What’s your fragrance of choice? Chanel “Bleu”.

What are the three essential items in your wardrobe? A pair of black wool pinstripe Celine pants that are comfortable and look great with everything. Nudie jeans because they do lifetime repairs and I don’t have to replace them. And a good pair of sunglasses. I just lost my Yanceys, so I’m wearing a burnt-orange pair I picked up from a thrift shop. I’m looking at Cazal for my next pair.

Any go-to jewellery? A Cartier “Tank” watch and a silver and black tourmaline ring I bought in Udaipur.

Can you recall a favourite outfit from when you were a child? I remember dressing up as an octopus for kindy – face paint, a stuffed shirt, six extra arms, all homemade. That was a great look.

What was your first fashion moment? I grew up in a country town in Western Australia, so when it came to fashion, there were surf stores and that was it. I first moved to Sydney when I was 18 and went insane going to all the thrift stores. I’d buy big jackets, brightly coloured and patterned clothes, put these outfits together and go to parties. It was a lot of fun.

And your worst fashion mistake? Wearing Hawaiian shirts. They were hand-me-downs from my brother.

Keenan admires Paul Newman’s “effortless” style.Credit: Getty Images

What’s on your fashion wish list? Ever since I saw Klaus Kinski running around the jungle in a white suit and black tie in the incredible film Fitzcarraldo, I’ve been obsessed. I recently saw a white silk Gucci suit that brought me back to that film. Hopefully, one day I will own that suit.

Is there anything you’d never wear? A fedora.

Is there a current trend you like? Tooth gems. Don’t judge me, they’re a nice little accessory.

What shoes do you wear most often? Dr. Martens boots. I also love the plastic Birkenstocks; they’re super light and great for travelling.

Who’s your favourite fashion icon? Paul Newman never failed to look cool. He was preppy yet masculine. Whether he was wearing a tailored suit or his nautical-themed long-sleeved striped shirt, pants and white socks, it was effortless.

What do you wear on a typical working day? For rehearsals, it’s jeans, a T-shirt and a pair of slip-on Vans and then whatever the costume is. For Death of a Salesman, it was a 1940s beige suit with suspenders and a red tie.

What’s your favourite off-duty, casual Sunday look? White jeans, a Jac + Jack tee and nice big knit. As long as it’s comfortable, and I’ve got a good book, I’m happy.

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