James Byron Dean (February 8, 1931 – September 30, 1955) was an American film actor.

“Only the gentle are ever really strong.” —James Dean

 He acted in a total of seven films and starred in three, but be warned, though: After watching Rebel Without a Cause, East of Eden and Giant, you’ll want to undoubtably drop your next paycheck at the nearest Levi’s store.

James Dean is one of the biggest style icons of the past century. The enigmatic star epitomised cool when he first came on the scene in the mid fifties.

Dean’s wardrobe staples include white tees, denim and a leather jacket. His rebellious look marked a definite departure from predominantly preppy styles of that era.

The brooding young actor gained global fame playing Jim Stark in Rebel Without A Cause, a teenager who, as the title implies, can’t seem to stay out of trouble. Dean had a classic greaser look with slicked back hair, jeans and a tight white T-shirt that was capped off with a red windbreaker, and of course, a cigarette dangling from his mouth. His rebellious look marked a definite departure from predominantly preppy and buttoned-up mid-century styles.

Dean embodied the essence of cool. He was one of the first male actors who gained as much attention from women as he did from men.