James Cornwell, one of Washington’s top stylists, shares his tips for fighting the fashion status quo — Guys Edition
ALTON LANE oxford shirts ($165); Alton Lane, Washington, DC, 646-896-1212 (Photo courtesy of ALTON LANE)
James Cornwell
James Cornwell
James Cornwell is a longtime stylist with numerous credits that include fashion shows, photo shoots, tele- vision and film productions. He is also the founder of Cornwell Styling, the art director for PR at Partners and Tim Coburn Photography, and serves as co-host for fashion podcast “Fashion BS.
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Just because the invitation says “black-tie” doesn’t mean your tie has to be black.
Put on some color. I love to see pink, purple or patterns like paisley with a pocket square in the same tone; it doesn’t have to match the pattern of the tie .
Don’t wear a tie at all!
There are some amazing options for tie-less shirts.
Shirts that have hand-sewn designs with large colored buttons where the tie would be are an edgy way to express your style. For a very formal look try gold, silver or crystal embellishments.
Most people don’t get semi-formal, especially guys, who tend to break the rules in the wrong way.
Picture this instead: A killer charcoal grey suit, white or light pink French cuff shirt, black skinny tie and all the formal pieces: suspenders, watch and cuff links. Wear patent leather high- t4ops or a pair of old-school Converse.
Most people think formal means a clean shave.
Who doesn’t love a guy in a suit or tux with some scruff?
Just make sure it’s neat — No mountain men please.
JOSEPH ABBOUD (Photo by Getty Images for Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week)
MARC BY MARC JACOBS (Photo by Peter Michael Dills)
Margaret Taylor and Brian Johnson
DESIGNER TIES silk ties (price upon request); Saks Fifth Avenue, 703-761-0700 (Photo courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue)
