O On: Mr Aramis Speaks

I try to be all about style and Finesse and as such spend a lot of time on men's grooming tips. Neil Cafferty from white collar remains an inspiration and so does George Clooney and now Mr. Aramis. all esteemed arbiters of Taste, men about town and etiquette and style gurus. Over the next couple of posts, i'll be sharing some tips I've gleaned from the triumvirate of men that put the G in GQ.

Dressing for this Christmas Season- Mr Aramis

When it comes to dressing for Christmas parties, I always steer towards timeless elegance, rather than fashion whimsy. For black-tie events, turn to royalty and old-school Hollywood to see how it should be done with real panache – which means black bow ties, not primary-hued or novelty ones.

In recent years, the single-breasted tuxedo has been in vogue, elongating the body and creating the illusion of a slimmer waist, but this season the likes of Brad Pitt and Mad Men actor Jon Hamm are leading the movement back to a more classical double-breasted dinner jacket. Choose black or midnight blue wool with lapels in grosgrain or barathea – I always feel velvet or satin look a bit ‘Del Boy’. Silk cummerbunds provide a sophisticated alternative to a waistcoat, but can serve to emphasise a – how shall I say it? – more rounded middle, so wear with care.

When it comes to selecting a dress shirt, I prefer a simple style, without frills or excess decoration, just a plain turn-back cuff with some smart cuff links. Personally, I like a cotton pique ‘bib’, but fine pleats can look elegant – and keep wing collars for tailcoats. Traditionally, patent shoes are worn with formal black tie, but the rules are relaxing and highly polished black Oxfords are now acceptable. A dash of Aramis adds the finishing touch.

Till Later

O