Sure, daytime talk show host Michael Strahan scored some points for bringing something different to the Oscars red carpet. A quick google of his name reveals a whole list of mixed feelings on his choice of attire. Evidently, his three-piece teal suit from his own Collection by Michael Strahan line was definitely not usual black tie attire.
A black tuxedo might look indistinguishable from the next but true style chops come into play in order to make a statement. While there is little room for mistakes or standouts, the sartorial choices one makes is all it takes to discern the fashion-forward from the conformist crowd.
We take a look at some of the male celebrities that graced the 88th Academy Awards red carpet in black tuxedos that caught our eye; probably the only time diversity is a non-issue for the award show.
The Classic
Leonardo DiCaprio has finally changed his luck at the Oscars but his red carpet style has more or less remained unchanged. The Oscar-winning actor has always favoured a classic tuxedo silhouette with wide lapels to give an illusion of broader shoulders. This time, he chose a peak-lapelled Giorgio Armani suit sans pocket square and paired with patent leather Christian Louboutins.
The Fashion Tux
Never one to subscribe to convention, Jared Leto upped his ante with this Gucci number. While a far cry from last year’s pastel Givenchy tux, the slim-fit black Gucci tux is contrasted with red piping along the lapels, sides of trousers and as an added sleeve detail. Embracing Alessandro Michele’s poetic vision for Gucci, Leto wore a red carnation tie on a black shirt in place of a traditional bow tie for added statement.
The Modern
One look at The Weeknd’s hair and you know a traditional tux is not going to look right on him. If you’re going to stick to black yet want a modern spin, take some notes from his Dior Homme tux. Just like the skinny tie, the skinny satin lapels instantly make this a more contemporary look without much adjustment. Abel (that’s his real name) also mashed sartorial know-how and modern sensibilities by choosing to go with a wingtip collared shirt and an equally skinny bow tie to tie (pun intended) everything together quite nicely.
The Three-Piece
Celebrating his new slimmer figure, singer Sam Smith (who won Best Original Song for the Spectre theme, Writing’s On The Wall) was fitted by dunhill in a three-piece tuxedo. The wide peak lapels accentuate his trimmer waist and what’s more impressive is his choice of going for an asymmetric waistcoat. Because of its construction, the look is cleaner without visible buttons on the waistcoat; a good point to take note of for a well-put outfit with minimal distractions.
The Questionably Cool
We’re not advocating that you turn up to a black tie event sockless and with haphazardly cuffed trousers. But in true Pharrell Williams fashion, the musician somehow made it work. Maybe it’s the well-moisturised ankles or that he’s just a fashion rebel. Whatever it may be, he was undoubtedly all kinds of cool in the Lanvin tux. Pharrell also gets style points for wearing a link-front tux, something we rarely see on red carpets or anywhere else for that matter.