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Looking for a bit of inspiration.
Attending a New years event which is black tie bit also lounge suit.
That means to me I can play a bit with the black tie look.
I have a nice bespoke black shawl neck dinner suit to wear.
What options?
Pocket square colour maybe
Open to suggestions
Thing is if you've got your jacket sorted you've already exhausted most of the available variations; things like velvet jackets, different colours, etc. I wouldn't screw with the colours - stick to being monochrome man.The variations I'd consider would be using dressy slippers on yer feet, using a necktie instead of a bowtie (still black silk please), skipping the tie altogether in favour of a silk scarf and open shirt, and perhaps if you're really feeling daring a brocade waistcoat or some such fancy thing. Anyhow have fun. And if you turn out to be the most formally dressed there you need to break out the immortal line "now I dont want anybody else to feel embarrassed..." ;)
Black tie tends to look its smartest - and best - when it is simply a black and white affair and when it is kept pretty traditional. That said, here are a couple of ideas for a change to norm.
Colour can be introduced, so long as it is done carefully. I'd suggest restricting yourself to just one item of colour. A pocketsquare, for instance, might introduce an extra element. Go for a colour that is rich and deep and expensive looking: a deep burgundy or plum, maybe, or dark green.
Alternatively, add a buttonhole flower, if your shawl collar can take one.
Christmas is perhaps the one time you might get away with coloured or checked bowties or cummerbunds too. Again, go for something restrained. For that reason, I'd suggest that a coloured patterned cummerbund is a better option than bowtie - a bit more subtle. Avoid matching bowties and cummerbunds, however.
Finally, consider going more formal than normal and combine your black tie outfit with a full dress waistcoat - one of the white tie marcella ones. It could look very smart.
Velvet slippers, darg.
Get these, then match your pocket square to the emblem. Then wear white bow tie / white waistcoat / white shirt.
Ted Baker | Ted Baker Treep Velvet Dress Shoes at ASOS
Go with the velvet sleepers but PLEASE keep them black.
I wouldn't go for a white bowtie.
At best you'll look eccentric, some might take you for ignorant of the difference between black tie and white tie and, at worst, people might start asking you to serve the drinks.