A Fistful of Style

Holiday Parties 1: A Minimalist Christmas

I’m a firm believer in dressing for occasions.  And not just black tie.  I think if you’re one of those guys who never gets in the spirit of a holiday because you’re afraid you’ll “look stupid,” you’re not having nearly enough fun.

In the interest of promoting interest and enthusiasm for holiday functions, I’m starting a series on what I wore to the Holiday parties I attended this year.

One caveat:  I am a grad student who works retail. None of these events were black tie, none were in an office, and 2 were of the “hanging out with all your friends” variety of party.  I understand that some of these outfits are not corporate approved, nor are they attempting to be.  Use your best discretion.

My first outfit?  A minimal holiday look.

I think that the holidays should be festive.  This may not sound like a revelation, but so many people get so angry around this time.  Crowds, christmas music, the need to buy so much goddamn shit, it gets to you.  So even if I’m rocking a sleek look to a party, I like to base it around holiday colors, red, green, white, a touch of gold.  The knit tie is beefy, so it reminds you of a scarf, and the pocket square (actually a re-purposed holiday doily) gives just enough “Holiday” reference so you don’t have to look like Kris Kringle to seem jolly.

Finished off with gray flannels and black wholecuts, this outfit may even be appropriate for an office party.  Clean and cool.  Merry F****** Christmas.