Create a Miami Vice Don Johnson Costume

Don Johnson Miami Vice Poster

If you were to ask me to name one TV series that really embraced 1980s culture, then it just has to be Miami Vice. It had it all, including the fashion, the music and the excess. The clothes worn by Crockett and Tubbs had a big influence on 80s fashion, and they would change their outfits up to eight times in just one episode! T-shirts worn with pastel suits (with rolled-up sleeves) and Ray-bans became the must have style for men.

In particular, it was Don Johnson's James "Sonny" Crockett character that was the most influential. The white linen pants worn with slip-on loafers and no socks created a laid-back style that men everywhere wanted to replicate. An Italian sports jacket and a pastel or black T-shirt completed the look. The unshaven style adopted by Johnson also became popular, and became known as "designer stubble". Miami Vice became renowned for bringing the latest European fashion trends to our TV screen.

A T-shirt worn under a pastel or white cotton suit is going to be essential for creating a style similar to that of Don Johnson.

The quickest and cheapest option is to buy a ready-made costume. I found three choices at Amazon which were all under £30, although the one I have featured below looks superior to the other two.

Miami Vice Costumes at Amazon UK

Obviously, the most expensive option is to buy a white cotton linen suit. However, finding a complete suit is almost impossible these days, although you can buy the jacket and trousers/pants separately.

Marco Carlotti Cotton Suit Jacket

At £59.95 (as I write), this designer jacket is not a cheap option for fancy dress purposes. However, if you really want to look the part and/or you plan to wear your 80s outfit to more than one party/event, then you may want to treat yourself.

Marco Carlotti Whute Trousers

The matching trousers were £39.95 (subject to change) making a grand total of £99.90,

White Cotton Jacket by Sodial

However, I have managed to find this white cotton jacket for under £15. The XXL size is a U.S. size and is Large is the UK size. Options for other sizes are displayed underneath the jacket at Amazon.

There are also plenty of other cheaper options for trousers, too. I recommened searching for White Trousers.

White Bowling Trousers

This pair of bowling/cricket trousers is priced at £11.99 to £15.99 depending on the size you choose.

White Loafers

To complete your look you'll need a pair of white loafers. I found this pair by Gio Gino for just £9.95. Wear without any socks for an authentic look.

You'll discover many more 80s costume ideas for men at our website simplyeighties.com.