A Brilliant Double Act: Mick & Keith

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Mick Jagger & Keith Richards
Mick Jagger & Keith Richards

A slick pair of Rolling Stones wins the Loves vote for Peghah Maleknejad

“You know I was keen on Chuck Berry and I thought I was the only fan for miles,” wrote an 18-year-old Keith Richards to his aunt Patty in 1962. “One mornin' on Dartford Stn, I was holding one of Chuck's records when a guy I knew at primary school came up to me. He's got every record Chuck Berry ever made. He is called Mick Jagger. He is the greatest R&B singer this side of the Atlantic and I don't mean maybe.”  The tale of Mick and Keith’s first meeting is part of rock ‘n’ roll legend – a seemingly inauspicious encounter on a suburban platform that created one of the greatest musical double acts of all time. Like Lennon and McCartney before them, they garnered hysterical screams and imitators alike, with fans rushing to emulate their effortless slimline style. And their allure lingers to this day, as proved by their victory in the Loves vote for Another Man’s fashion assistant Peghah Maleknejad.

What makes the perfect double act? Similarities help – see Gilbert & George in matching tweed, Thelma and Louise’s complimentary red hair, and Mick and Keith’s shared affection for suits and Chelsea boots. Differences are key too. Withnail and “I” succeed despite their defiantly opposing views and Buzz and Woody have to overcome their antipathy and singular toybox backgrounds to forge their bond. Shared interests help – be it crime, as per Bonnie and Clyde or Butch and Sundance, or Chuck Berry as above.

Today, as we crown our favourite double act in rock’n’roll, we talk to Maleknejad about her love for Brian Jones and discover who would be her fantasy musical duo alongside a gallery of our favourite pairs from Loves.

Why did you love this picture?
I was really into what they were wearing, especially the shoes.

Where would you keep it if you owned it?
In my bathroom – framed of course.

Have you ever taken style inspiration from the Rolling Stones?
No, not that I can remember but I should start – I would definitely look up to Keith.

Who's your favourite Stone?
Brian Jones – I wish I had the guts to dress like him.

Who is your dream double act?
Jack White and Lee Hazlewood.

Who is your favourite pair in culture?
Patti Smith and Robert Mapplethorpe.

Who's your menswear style icon?
James Dean, nothing beats jeans and a t-shirt.

What are you looking forward to about December?
New Year's Eve, making a big dinner with friends.