It’s undoubtedly the most social time of the year. Sparkling occasions abound - Christmas drinks, office parties, New Year’s Eve - it’s enough to make anyone have a wardrobe crisis! Hushh gives you some insight on how to inject some glamour.
Whether planning a special date, heading out for cocktails or hosting a soiree at home, everyone wants to make an impression. Dressing up has become increasingly rare, especially during Covid, but nothing beats it for injecting some glamour into a gathering.
LOOK LIKE YOU MADE AN EFFORT
Gentlemen - even if it’s a casual occasion, you still want to look like you made an effort, don’t you? A pair of dark wash jeans and a simple shirt worn with a v-neck sweater is a good starting point. Add some ‘oomph’ by topping it off with a black leather jacket or contrasting blazer (in wool or tweed). Keep the color palette neutral for evening - think black, grey, and navy - it will be more than appropriate and inject a bit of elegance.
For a more formal do, wear a suit, but don’t make it look like one. What do we mean by that? Well, lose the tie for starters, and unbutton your top button. You will still look sharp (assuming your shirt and suit fit well) but less like you’re heading to the office. A suit with some pattern or texture (grey check or tweed, for example) will also be more interesting. Add a pocket square and loafers to pull it all together. Stepping up the formality a bit, a dark grey or navy suit will take you almost anywhere, particularly when worn with a classic French cuff shirt fastened with cufflinks (every man should have at least one in the repertoire- if you don’t go see Mark at Fountain City Jewelers). Oh, and worn with a tie, of course. For sharp tailoring options on the high street, try Jigsaw Menswear, Reiss, J Crew or even M&S. Or seek inspiration from men’s clothing and lifestyle website Mr. Porter.
For black tie events, choose a dinner suit in black or midnight blue in wool. Single breasted is the most popular option, although double-breasted is making a comeback. For a modern look, go for a slim leg trouser, and don’t worry about a cummerbund. If you’re going to buy a dinner suit, look to Reiss and of course, Moss Bros.
ACHIEVE EFFORTLESS ELEGANCE
In winter, there are always so many interesting textures to add a touch of the extraordinary - sequins, faux fur, molten metallic fabrics and of course, leather. A leather skirt or trousers with a cashmere sweater or silk blouse, for example, is a funky alternative for dinner or drinks. If you’re hading out straight from the office, a simple black dress worn with boots for day are transformed by adding heels, jewelry and a sleek clutch.
HERE ARE TOP TIPS FOR ACHIEVING EFFORTLESS ELEGANCE THIS FESTIVE SEASON:
1. The basics matter: Well-fitting and supportive underwear are the foundation of your look - get this right and the rest will follow. If your outfit calls for tights or stockings, seek out Wolford (www.wolfordshop.com). Their colors, patterns and quality are unrivaled.
2. Be prepared: Nothing is more panic-inducing than discovering your dress has a broken zipper or you don’t have the right shoes. Try everything on at least a week in advance, giving you time to get any last minute dry cleaning done or to fill any gaps.
3. Mix it up: Mixing high street and designer, new and vintage willcreate a look that is uniquely yours. Seek out smaller boutiques for a more individual look.
4. Think beyond black: Navy, for example, is chic and looks less harsh. Claret and teal are also beautiful tones that suit most skin tones.
5. ...And beyond the dress: Jumpsuits are, quite literally, a ‘one pice wonder’ creating a long fluid silhouette. Reiss has some very elegant jumpsuits in a variety of styles.
Think about the finishing touches, to add polish. Get your makeup applied professionally. This is not the time to experiment with a brand new look - you may not like it, and you want to look like you!
Remember, if you are unsure of the dress code for a particular event, check with your host. It is much better to ask than to risk embarrassment. Whatever you choose to wear, do so with confidence and a smile - nothing says elegance quite like it.
