Black Tie Lessons from Red Carpet Mistakes

1. The tux is about looking dapper, not duplicatable.

Tuxedo Junction
Tuxedo Junction

Strutting your pre-event stuff in front of the mirror in your home you're sure to look distinguished, in a room of hundreds of exactly the same, you become indistinguishable. You are not a penguin at the Aquarium and there are a range of choices from subtle all the way to Elton John to create a bit of interest and actual distinction.

Embellished bow-ties

or silk ties, black on black color schemes, vests, custom shirt studs, and even a different

color tux jacket

are a few of the ways to add a refreshing creative touch to your black tie affair.

Leather Bow Tie by Robot & Brucling
Leather Bow Tie by Robot & Brucling

2. Hair & Grooming are your supporting cast, don't ignore them.

Hairy Situations
Hairy Situations

At the risk of getting yelled at by Christian Bale here goes: he looked amazing - from the neck down. Yes he may have been growing out that Grizzly Adams for a big movie role, but he could've at least tamed that bad boy a bit for company. The non-actor has even less of an excuse for follicle follies.

3. Balance your proportions with tie choice.

Black Tie at Oscars
Black Tie at Oscars

Remember that like the gorgeous celebrities themselves, dressing too is all an illusion. While a bow-tie may be classic it's not the best choice for guy with a shorter or stockier frame. A long silk tie is a better choice, as it helps to lengthen and thin the torso.