Even before his sartorially striking role in HBO's Liberace biopic, the actor's costumes have made him a style inspiration. Click through to see what we've learned.

1970: Adam at 6 A.M.

Flaunting beefy forearms is a surefire way for a college professor to reinvent himself as a Midwestern lineman.

1972-76: The Streets of San Francisco

The lesson here is to avoid the aviators-and-peaked-cap look, which was de rigueur for guys in 1970s S.F., cop or not.

1979: The China Syndrome

When you need to summon courage in the face of a possible nuclear meltdown, nothing helps like a beard.

1984: Romancing the Stone

There are very few times in your life when you can dress like you're going on a treasure hunt. So when you're actually doing just that, spring for a safari suit.

1987: Fatal Attraction

A great suit can drive a woman crazy, so be careful about what you wear- that whole scenario can backfire.

1987: Wall Street

Despite felonious shortcomings, Gordon Gekko got one thing right: He dressed for success. At least before prison.

1989: Black Rain

Want to look like a badass? A leather-jacket-and-sunglasses combo is the way to go.

1992: Basic Instinct

Against Sharon Stone's famous white dress, Douglas held his own in sharp suits and deep-V sweaters. When he wasn't naked.

1993: Falling Down

If the whole nerd look works for you, run with it- but maybe without the pocket protector.

2007: King of California

Scraggly facial hair and artfully disheveled bedhead worked for Douglas, inspiring baristas everywhere.