Wednesday, July 20, 2011

Le crillon ball: Dressing for formal events

white cummerbund, bow tie
Are you someone who dreams of Paris and luxury?   I have a  particular dream where I am wisped off to Paris to stay at the five-star Hôtel de Crillon, footsteps away from the Champs-Elysees.  Constructed in 1758, the hotel has been used by King Louis XV, which makes it one of the most prestigious places to stay.
   It’s also the home to the annual Le Crillon Ball des Debutantes.  I’ve never been to Paris, let alone to Hôtel de Crillon.  Not yet at least.  I always hear about the Debutante Ball, the beautiful girls, the gorgeous gowns they wear, and what their call to fame is.  I think that’s all great, but what about the boys who accompany them?  I understand this is a Debutante Ball, but what about giving us guys some credit?  Ball or not, the guys who try to look good work very hard doing so.  I feel we live in a society open enough for a guy to dress as he wishes, so why not have a ball for men?  It would be A-list gentlemen from the worlds of international aristocracies, celebs, art, and sports.  There could be an auction with proceeds going to a charity of their choice.  I would definitely be interested in knowing which of the latest styles would be worn and what kind of etiquette would be used.  Overall, it would be tons of fun and I can already imagine it.
When I think of formal events, I think of royalty.  If you need to attend a formal event you have a variety of choices of designer looks, but men tend to stick to the average tuxedo jacket, pants, cummerbund and bow tie.  I do recommend the bow tie, but highly suggest you go for a nostalgic look and choose a classic formal tailcoat suit.   You could also opt for a white cummerbund or pique vest.   I just know you would look amazing and would be the best dressed in the room!   As the saying goes, “go big or go home.”   Do not be intimidated by fashion, it should be fun and never something you dread.  Not sure about where to get your tux?  Don’t fret my friend.  It’s quite easy.  You can go online and get yours, but I only recommend this if you truly know your measurements.  Otherwise, you could be stuck with an ill-fitting tux, depending on the company’s return policy, or constantly sending it back to get re-measured.  I do advise that you go into the store of your choice, once you find one of course, to be measured.  I won’t recommend any company or designer because we all have a different view on fashion, so shop around. I’m sure there are plenty of sales in your area.  So don’t make it a chore, bring your friend or girlfriend(s) along.  It’s always best to get a second opinion.  Good luck!

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