Blue Suit, Black Tie

If you are attending a New Year’s Eve party with a black tie dress code and either 1) don’t have a tuxedo or 2) simply want to be a little creative, don’t worry because there are options. In the event you’ve already worn out your black velvet blazer around the holidays and still don’t have the funds to spring for that perfect and amazing midnight blue designer one you’ve been eyeing even though it’s currently on sale for 50% off, turn to something you should already have in your closet and make your blue suit black tie.

A well-tailored dark blue suit—whether in a classic navy or a slightly unexpected and interesting variation on the hue—should be the anchor garment in any man’s wardrobe. Simply put, it is timeless and essential. Not to mention versatile. Pairing it with a classic black bow tie and crisp white dinner shirt instantly transforms it into an outfit that is perfectly suited for a formal or semi-formal occasion.

When it comes to formal or semi-formal dress, keep the details clean and simple. It’s elegant and projects a higher level of style sophistication. There are definitely certain times and places to get fancy with accessories, but a black tie event is not one of them. You have to know when—and how—to say more with less.

For me, that means my breaking out my special Tiffany & Co. cuff links, pulling on some formal black braces in place of a belt, and dressing up my jacket’s breast pocket with a crisp white pocket square that just peeks out. No more, no less. Simple and classic elegance.

This Look: Blue suit by Quinntessential Gentleman Custom (similar here) – White dinner shirt by Reiss – Sterling silver cuff links by Tiffany & Co. (similar here) – Black silk bow tie by Nordstrom (similar here) – White pocket square by Hugo Boss – Black braces by Brooks Brothers – Watch with black leather strap by Timex – Black wingtip dress shoes c/o Allen Edmonds (McAllister)

Thanks for reading and Happy New Year!

Stylishly Yours,

Brian
He Spoke Style

Photography by Rob McIver Photo.