More surprising than the appearance of quirky English pop singer Jarvis Cocker in a major Hollywood movie is the fact that Wes Anderson cast the former Pulp singer in a movie ages ago. After all, with his striking physicality, hyper-stylized vintage wardrobe and witty, sardonic worldview, Cocker was a Wes Anderson character before Wes Anderson films existed.

The Britpop survivor's brief (but memorable) cameo as Petey -- a musical henchman to Michael Gambon's sadistic farmer, Bean, in the newly released "Fantastic Mr. Fox" -- is the latest highlight in a long, varied résumé. It's included a decade-long stint on the indie margins, a short period of mid-'90s U.K. megastardom on the back of Pulp's brilliant class-war anthem "Common People" and, lately, a critically acclaimed solo career. Add to that various side-endeavors like radio DJing, documentary-making and soundtrack work.

Stylistically, the Sheffield native made his name back in the '90s with ultra-skinny thrift-store suits and stack heels that accentuated (rather than disguised) his beanpole frame. Now that he's an indie elder statesman, he has not toned down his trademark eccentric silhouette; rather, he's effortlessly evolved it into a sophisticated (but still whimsical) take on the hip college professor.

Hugo Boss Blazer

True to form, Jarvis Cocker sports a retro blazer with distinctive wide lapels. This classy Boss number isn't exactly thrift-store authentic, but it's pretty damn neat all the same. ($195 from Yoox.com)



Polo Ralph Lauren Pants Straight Fit Corduroys

Wes Anderson's dapper Mr. Fox, resplendent in a corduroy suit and voiced by Geogre Clooney in full ladies-man mode, is set to become a style icon. Stay ahead of the curve by getting in on some cord pants action. ($90 from Macys.com)

Cotton/Cashmere Sweater Vest

A sweater vest doesn't have to make you look like Carlton from "The Fresh Prince." Rocking the preppy staple with a vintage blazer and a scruffily hip shirt says booze-sodden intellectual rather than college Republican. ($40 from EddieBauer.com)

Rockport Men's Anniello Cap Toe Dressport Oxford in Dark Brown
A pair of beat-up brown Oxford brogues will add bookish suave to any outfit. These solid Rockport kicks have the advantage of being ultra-practical, as well as giving off a dilettante air. ($120 from Endless.com)