On the 1 August, 1981, music’s relationship with the moving image was to change forever. We wonder if MTV knew, as they launched with The Buggles’ 1979 single Video Killed The Radio Star, just how apt its title was.

Nowadays, of course, it’s difficult to imagine an artist being signed at all without their image being thoroughly probed and valued. And having a sharp sense of style, or a strong personal brand, is often just as important as being able to play an instrument or write a catchy lyric.

But over the decades of the music video’s evolution, who’s done it best? We trawl back through the archives to unearth some of music videos’ finest menswear moments, and show you how to riff on the look today.

The Ramones – Rock ‘n’ Roll High School

Formed in 1974, The Ramones were not only pioneers of punk rock’s raucous sound, but its iconic look too.

Clad in a uniform of black leather biker jacket, tight tee, mid-wash skinny jeans and plimsolls, the New York-born band’s getup then, as now, defined style that’s easy-to-wear but packing plenty of edge.

Get The Look

The biker jacket is the frontman here, and the key piece you’ll need if you want to nod to the style of punk’s first offspring. Willing to do a little digging? Try second-hand and charity shops to pick up a bargain. Failing that, Acne Studios has a fantastic offering of buttery smooth styles, while the black leather biker is nothing short of a mainstay in most high street stores (AllSaints and Topman being two of the main contenders).

Also integral is footwear, and while Converse’s rock-infused Chuck Taylor or Jack Purcell is the obvious choice, a simple plain white plimsoll or – for something right up to the minute – a minimal leather trainer will work just as well.

It’d be remiss of us not to mention how certain elements of The Ramones’ aesthetic haven’t aged so well, however – particularly those skintight fits. Update your look with slim-cut tees and jeans.