Written by Katie Chandler, photos by Zoe Brown

Models: Hadly Berry, Hal Lueking, Andrew Roberts 

Graduation, holiday parties, banquets, birthdays, and weddings—all events that require the perfect outfit. Events that so many men feel like they have to pull out the same suit from high school graduation to fit. However, the time of men's formal wear being seen as an afterthought is over! (And no more using it as only an accessory to a partner's outfit.) The perfect formal wear doesn't even have to be the traditional tux. 

Don’t worry about finding the perfect, luxury-made, 3-piece staple suit. While great to have on hand, allow yourself to indulge in pieces that you can switch up to match that occasion. Outfits that let your personality show, instead of just showing that you read the dress code requirements.  

Even though you’re ready to branch out, maybe black is still your color. That doesn't mean that it has to look like everyone else. Don’t be called out like the boring men on the Met Gala carpet who gave the bare minimum. Even if it's something small, adding the right accessories can help to break up all black. Adding some silver with belts and earrings or rings and necklaces can give some contrast to the black sea. Or, save the glam for the shoe and pop off with a cute bootie or some heels. 

Wanting to go further? Take creative liberties on what is considered a blazer and add some texture. Tweed can add dimension to the look without taking away from the elegance. It also adds some warmth to those long holiday parties. 

Who said a hot pink blazer can’t be a boy's best friend? If you're a bold person, you deserve a bold outfit to match. Even if hot pink isn’t your thing, play with color. Maybe it's a two-toned look. Or go with some more classic tans and blues. The right shade is different for everyone and how can you know what's for you if you don't try? The more options you give yourself, the more you can mix it up. The same yellow button down might not fit your winter aesthetic just like the tweed coat wont fit your summer wardrobe. 

Dressing up for events is supposed to be fun and make you feel confident knowing you look as good as you feel. If you're bored with the same old, same old, take a trip to your local thrift store and see what you can find. Every suit jacket and button-up tells a different story, what are you trying to tell?