John Travolta has recently made waves with his striking new fashion choice—a beret—as he enters a new chapter in his career as a director. The 72-year-old actor showcased this distinctive accessory at the premiere of his film *Propeller One-Way Night Coach* in New York City on May 20. During an interview with PEOPLE, Travolta expressed his delight over the public’s reaction to his stylish statement, describing this look as “an homage to being a director.”
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The actor first embraced the beret at the Cannes Film Festival on May 15, where its impact quickly went viral. Travolta, who donned a classic black three-piece suit complemented by a white shirt, tie, and cream-coloured beret, noted that such attire marks a significant shift in how he wishes to present himself. “I wanted to differentiate all these years of watching me in photos,” he explained. “I can’t tell the difference between what year was that? What movie was that? What press conference was that? And I thought, ‘I’m gonna tag it now,'” he continued, aiming to give this new style an identity tied to his directorial ventures.
At the New York premiere, Travolta wore a navy blue beret that perfectly matched his three-piece suit and bowtie, reiterating his commitment to this new image. He expressed how, following his recognition by fashion icons like *Vogue* and *Harper’s Bazaar*, he felt a sense of achievement. “Once they voted me the best dressed at Cannes, I went, ‘Okay, we’ve arrived,'” he reflected.
This new stylistic choice isn’t just a random whim for the actor; it has roots in cinematic tradition. In a separate interview with CNN, Travolta articulated his admiration for classic film directors who often donned similar headwear. “The old school directors wore berets and glasses. And I thought, that’s what I’m doing,” he said, highlighting his desire to pay tribute to the filmmaking pioneers who inspired him.
Travolta’s daughter, Ella, accompanied him to both the Cannes premiere and the New York event, showcasing her own elegant style in a stunning black velvet dress. The father-daughter duo shared these significant professional moments, with Ella also starring in *Propeller One-Way Night Coach*, an adaptation of a book Travolta originally published in 1997. He penned the book, driven by his passion for aviation, as a family-friendly tale for his son.
The Cannes premiere was particularly poignant, as Travolta received an honorary Palme d’Or from festival director Thierry Frémaux. The revered actor was visibly emotional, stating, “This is beyond the Oscar,” as he reflected on the honour bestowed upon him, underlining the significance of the moment in his illustrious career.
As celebrities and fans continue to comment on Travolta’s new look, it has sparked a broader conversation about the intersection of fashion and film. His decision to adopt this style can be seen as a purposeful move to re-establish his identity as both an actor and a director, bridging the gap between his enduring legacy and his fresh pursuits in directing.
John Travolta’s insights into his new style reflect a thoughtful approach to his career progression. By choosing a beret as his signature accessory, he not only pays homage to legendary filmmakers but also carves out a new visual representation of his evolving creative journey. The actor’s commitment to this direction signifies a celebration of both his past and future in the world of cinema. As Travolta continues to navigate his dual roles as a father and filmmaker, one thing is clear: the iconic actor is set to make a significant mark once again.