Cary Grant snatches 'Greatest Ever Male Style Icon' from David Beckham

The Hollywood screen legend, remembered for his sophisticated looks, has left modern-day style guru 33-year-old Beckham trailing behind him in a poll of 4,000 Brit men.

Grant, who died in 1986 at the age of 81, was chosen for his sharp but classic look. He was a huge hit with women in Hollywood and was married five times.

Third place on the list went to 'Pirates Of The Caribbean' star Johnny Depp, 45, with 'The Great Escape' actor Steve McQueen, nicknamed the King of Cool thanks to his rugged, laid-back style, coming in at fourth place.

The top five was rounded off by Sean Connery, 77, who acted as James Bond in seven 007 movies.

The poll was commissioned by top tie and scarf maker Peckham Rye, and its creative director Matt Start revealed that he found Grant deserved the title.

"Cary Grant is a worthy winner," Daily Star quoted Start as saying.

"His film North by Northwest shows a stunning scene when he is walking along the side of a train in a light blue suit, white shirt and tie as he puts his sunglasses on.

"That look, even though it was first seen back in 1959, spawned so many copycat looks and fashion wise is still an iconic movie scene.

"David Beckham should be delighted to come second in the list. He always reinvents his look and carries everything off really well," he said.

The founding editor of online style magazine fashion156.com, Guy Hipwell, was not at all surprised that Grant had landed the number one slot.

"That iconic late 1950s-early 1960s sharply-tailored look will always be in style," he added.

The Top 20 male icons, as per the poll is:

1. Cary Grant

2. David Beckham

3. Johnny Depp

4. Steve McQueen

5. Sean Connery

6. Brad Pitt

7. James Dean