“if a man enjoys any opportunity to wear his tuxedo he should do so” – Frank Sinatra
Christmas is just around the corner and the party invites are out in force, if like me you may be thinking what to wear, but have you even taken the time to think about what you wear actually says about you as an individual? No.
Then I’d like to cordially invite you to look at what wearing black tie should really be saying about you. You know every man in the room is going to be trying to look his best, so what is going to distinguish you from the rest? Ensure you make an entrance that leaves a lasting impression with these top tips to Black Tie.
#1 – Find that fabulous fit
Black tie dress can be snazzy, sexy and superb – but only if fitted correctly so if you are going to gain any kind of style the first and foremost tip is – find that fit! Take the time to make sure that the fit is close but not too tight, without any kind of pinching that could possibly hinder your movements or wrinkle the jacket. Get it right and it will give the girls plenty to gossip about, get it wrong and you’ll feel like a trussed up penguin and look as uncomfortable as you feel.
#2 –Choose the right tie
Is your face angular, oval or narrow? Make sure the type of tie you choose coincides with the frame work of your face, then match it with the facing of the suit. The tie may be small, but if not chosen correctly it could make or break your overall appearance so it is well worth trying a few on to get this right.
If looking at a bow tie then go for a self- tie, as it is much better constructed and at the end of the evening a self-tie draped around the neck adds up to that comfortable, confident look that all the ladies love. Need to know how to tie a bow tie? Here’s a handy link…
#3 – Coordinate
There are a substantial number of options available to you regarding the details of your outfit but it’s essential you coordinate correctly.
Belt or Straps
This does depend on the quality of the event you are attending but with most events being sat down 3,4, 5 or even 7 courses I recommend straps. They’re a nicer way of letting out that waist band discreetly.
Shoes
What you wear on your feet speaks in volumes, yes, shoes say it all. Black is usual with a vast range of styles available, for comfort choose a soft leather formal pump or very simple (no broguing) highly polished favourite.
Trousers
Flapping shirts are definitely a no, no. Choose high waist trousers, plain hemmed bottoms – no turn-ups, and coupled with a waist coat as these will consume any overspill of material. A nice neat tucked in waist will not only give you longer legs but that awesome 007 look that every guy in a tuxedo secretly strives for.
#4 –Add appropriate colour
Believe it or not, eighty per cent of people base how they perceive us on colour. Be it a paraquette lining or a purple waist jacket, your first impression should be nothing less than impeccable. Avoid the novelty tie, unless you want to be remembered as ‘that guy with the fun bow tie’ and remember whichever colour you choose don’t forget to coordinate with cufflinks.
#5 Individual Flair
These days black tie is necessarily black, opting for a midnight blue, navy or white tuxedos have been seen as acceptable alternatives for some years now and velvet is also a popular alternative.
Be cautious – just because Eddie Redmayne looked hot in midnight blue at the Oscars this year doesn’t mean it will look good on you or be appropriate for your occasion. If you want to add individuality to your look without the drama consider jacket and waistcoat linings as an alternative.
So ultimately it’s a case of if you want to dress to impress make sure you dress to suit your body type, your personality, and most importantly the event you’re attending. Odds are if you consider these tips you’ll be well on your way to getting it right this party season.
If you want to discuss your look further feel free to give us a call and book in for a no obligation appointment.
