Few Hollywood actors can – at the age of 43 – claim to be in constant demand for roles as varied as a Baltimore drug lord to Nelson Mandela. Even fewer can also DJ. And none can say they do it all while sometimes stalling to rap with Jay Z or consult on collaborations with the likes of Superdry. Idris Elba, however, is the very definition of a modern-day renaissance man. Since first shooting to fame as suited and booted Stringer Bell in The Wire, Elba has consistently impressed with his ability to stay cool – both on and off the camera. Whether he’s repping his signature laid­-back style, cutting a dapper figure on the red carpet or giving a fresh nod to next season’s trends in his downtime, there’s a reason why Newham’s finest constantly crops up in our best-dressed lists. Here are eight reasons why Big Driis is one of the most valuable players in the game right now, and why your style will thank you for taking your cue from him. Watch and learn.

1. He Knows The Trends That Work For Him

Time’s a great teacher. With over four decades under his belt, Elba has learned to trim the fat from his wardrobe, refining it so that timeless staples are kept stocked high and flash-in-the-pan fare is weeded right out. You won’t find any sliders, extreme longline tees or cross-eye-inducing prints here. That doesn’t mean Elba avoids trying his hand at trends, though. He just tries on them on for size in a subtle way that doesn’t compromise his larger frame. A bold trouser here, a coloured shoe there; this is a man who’s mastered the art of deploying bold prints, hues and fabrics in small bursts, without letting his signature style suffer. (Related: The menswear trends to skip this season, and what to wear instead)

2. He Can Wear The Hell Out Of A Suit

There are many reasons why Elba was tipped by bookies to succeed Daniel Craig as the new 007. And stellar acting chops aside, we’d like to think it’s because he looks as sharp in a suit as any other of Her Majesty’s MI6 agents. The key to Elba’s formalwear success is his secret weapon: a good tailor on speed dial. Taller than average and muscular in stature, Elba knows his frame needs some expert input to looks its best. Which is why each suit, whether a Prince of Wales check or midnight blue tux, has been nipped and tucked to perfectly flatter his form. Any agent in the making knows that a few millimetres shaved off the sleeve or the leg makes all the difference – which is why you’ll never see his trousers pooling or his cuffs around his palms. (Related: 5 experts that will make a difference to your style)