Black Tie & Cocktail Attire for Men: 7 Expert Tips
From when to wear a watch to how to select your cufflinks, seven Harry Rosen staff members offer sage advice on how to pull off a formal event look worthy of topping any best-dressed list.
By: Harry Rosen Staff
Between winter weddings, holiday parties, office get-togethers, and NYE celebrations, the festive end of the year perennially promises a packed calendar of occasions, all occurring inside an exciting (albeit chaotic) compressed timespan.
Within a few indulgent weeks or the blink of an eye (whichever comes first), we’ll have attended anywhere between two to ten events, eaten ~30 variations of the same hors d’oeuvres, and spent approximately $12k on Uber rides — all the while expected to look our polished best on each occasion.
But how does one make event attire — suits, cocktail jackets, tuxedos — feel interesting and fun time after time? We’ve asked a few resident experts and pooled their advice here, including several tips on how to keep your most formal ’fits feeling fresh.
“Never underestimate the impact of a bold statement jacket worn atop a traditional tuxedo trouser. If this isn’t your first event season, chances are you’ve already got the perfect canvas to help a cocktail jacket or sport jacket turn heads. Style yours simply with a white shirt, bow tie, and loafers, and you’ve got a killer look worthy of any special event.” —Ian Rosen, President & COO
“Choose your favourite cufflinks, even if they don't ‘match’ your outfit — this small detail can really surprise and delight those who notice! When in doubt, borrow a pair from your father or your father's father for that sentimental touch.” —Adam Percival, Director of Made to Measure
“One rule I live by is to never wear a watch with a tuxedo; who cares what time it is when you're supposed to be enjoying yourself? If you must, a thin watch is acceptable.” —Andrew Treleaven, E-Commerce Product Specialist
“I always approach a formal or event look by searching for a piece that has interesting textile or fabrication — something with a bit of personality to the material. I love jacquard and other textured fabrics, but I also appreciate tonal looks and statement patterns, too.” —Sara Trudel, Fashion & Product Marketing Coordinator
“My advice would be to invest in a great cocktail jacket. It can be as bold or as timeless as you like... Just be sure to keep it elegant and polished. For fall, try a fine gauge black silk-cashmere or wool turtleneck, some neatly tailored black trousers, and either a formal loafer or velvet slipper (the shoe needs to be formal, no exceptions!).” —Adam Gallo, Divisional Merchandise Leader for Tailored Clothing, Furnishings, & Luxury Collections
“I always try to include a personal element into any event look. It might be a piece of fabric you salvaged from your grandmother’s sewing kit, reborn as pocket square. Or perhaps that perfectly patinated tie-bar you happened upon at a vintage store. Whatever it is, try to weave in something that holds some personal significance to you.” —Logan Ross, Senior Copywriter
“Avoid wearing a tuxedo or dinner jacket with notch lapels. Save notch lapels for your everyday suit. Since this is for something eventful, keep it traditional and opt for one with either a peak or shawl lapel. Bonus points if the lapels are satin!” —Zane Lim, Social Media Lead
Dressed to the Nines
