Straight from the film festival where actors dress to get noticed, there's some wisdom in all this black-tie attire even if your summer events have no red carpet to roll out.
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If you're going to wear a white t-shirt with a suit, the tailoring should be light in both colour and weight. White bucks and a matching belt help others know this look is no happy accident.
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Black-tie is a novelty for most men, and switching up your hair style for something a bit more dapper is a great way to show you put some effort in.
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If you want to look truly excellent in your tux, you've got to buy your own. None of this renting business, as Alec Baldwin proved all week: He owns this Zegna tux here, even though the brand probably would've been happy to lend one.
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White cashmere, off-white chinos, a little ironing: Make this your own formula for low-key swagger when you're hanging out near the coast. And if you'll never wear white, this monochrome thing would also work with a brighter blue sweater, navy chinos, and the same brown shoes.
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Because when you're so knotted up for evening, stubble and a smile can go a long way toward showing you're having a good time. Just because it's a special occasion doesn't mean you need to get all baby-faced.
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Go tonal: In a field of well-dressed men wearing white and black, we've gotta call-out this comedian for his slate grey shirt. Reminds us of The Great Gatsby, but, you know, more modern.
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Prince of Wales plaids and other checked suits that may have once been considered stodgy can look mighty youthful, especially on a younger guy and in a trimmer fit. Try it out. Like so. Don't forget the pocket-square. (Fast forward to 2016: He sure looks different now.)
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But if you're not quite ready to go for the plaid thing, there's no reason not to wear a jacket that has some texture to it, perhaps from sort of linen blend. You'll stand out against all those black penguins.
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At the after-party: Lose the tie. Have another drink.
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While we typically prefer a peak lapel around here, there's a way to make a notch lapel catch our eye: Choose one that isn't too skinny, then find a bow tie that matches the heft. (Pine's could have been a bit bigger, but close.)
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If it's your lady's occasion, here's how to be a good date: Dress to fit the dress code, but not to compete with other men there. Also, stare at her a lot. Smile.
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Wearing sunglasses at night is, indeed, something that you should not be attempting. If you need vision correction, there's no shame in wearing your spectacles. When not in use, they'll look great in your breast pocket.
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Consider the off-white bow tie, as this Italian director chose here. In his case: Tighten the damn thing. And try out a slightly smaller collar, too.
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Ex-vampire boy, stylish man now has got a lesson for all you kids who prefer incredibly skinny ties: If you're going for the whole Reservoir Dogs thing, then your lapels better match up. If not, the whole thing will look out of proportion.
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Few men have ever looked terrible in a trim, bad-ass, black leather jacket. If it's cold enough to wear yours in summer, all the better if you do so with a pair of light blue (or yellow, or even mint) chinos.
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