The red carpet was awash in sartorial disaster at the 2014 Oscars, as per usual. It pains me so much to see anyone, especially celebrities, do black tie with such recklessness. I do understand that many celebrities use the red carpet to try new looks (this year the white dinner jacket was huge), differentiate themselves and cash in on endorsement deals to wear a given designers clothing. I feel bad for many of the designers, as many of their muses looked like, well, shit. Indeed, any PR is not good PR. True, there were some who did dress well, but they were easily out numbered by aforementioned disasters.
PS – if you think I’ve been too harsh on these celebrities please sound off in the comments section below so that I know to sugar coat things less next time.
If I’m not mistaken, isn’t it never appropriate to wear a watch in black tie, as it indicates the man is concerned with business affairs rather than a leisurely formal evening? Certainly more formal than is realistic or applicable, but I believe Sven Raphael Schneider included this in his guide to formal wear.
James,
In the most traditional sense it is not appropriate to wear a watch, and your reasoning is spot on. However, if one is going to wear a watch, he should do it right.
-JLJ
Enjoyed your critique as usual and agree with them all. One thing I noticed too was that bar one every photo showed jackets with too-long sleeves. How the hell do these blokes get it so wrong when they have stylists and other help to guide them?
You comments are without a doubt spot on. The absolute disregard for the rules has led to a bunch of handsome men looking terrible on the biggest night of the year. They need to focus on learning the rules before breaking them in such a cavalier manner.
Konrad,
I agree, or, at least, when they go to break them, make sure the clothes fit well. A man can get away with so much more when the clothes fit. Or I guess in the case of OJ, when they don’t fit…
-JLJ
It will never, ever cease to amaze me how many men neglect to get their pants hemmed. Especially before they appear in front of millions on national television.
Nicely observed and laid out. I am not convinced by the white jacket, maybe for a lower end “Black Tie” event, but not something of this stature. With reference to Christian Bale – he did play “The Dark Knight”!
Rob,
It is certainly not for lower end black tie events. It is more of a seasonal and outdoors thing – like seersucker. True, he did play the dark knight, and partly as such he is better fitted for the all black combo, but even then, i still can endorse it.
-JLJ
I’ve got no problem with your critique of the clothing issues presented above as they were all spot on. My problem, understanding that this is your blog, is in your delivery.
The name of your site implies a certain level of knowledge and refinement in ones thoughts and actions yet your comments belie the fact.
“YES I AM SCREAMING AT YOU. CAN YOU HEAR ME?!” and “I will keep this photo for the sole purpose of one day telling my children that if they ever dress like this they will be disowned. Oh, the horror.” Are you a drama queen?
“This looks like what would happen if Thom Browne and Men’s Warehouse took a dump next to each other and painted it black.” and “And then the always terdtacular Ryan Seacrest.” Each of these come off as juvenile and uneducated, much the same as one who peppers their conversations with vulgarities because they aren’t well versed enough to carry on an intelligent conversation.
“PS – if you think I’ve been too harsh on these celebrities please sound off in the comments section below so that I know to sugar coat things less next time.” Are you a child?
And the worst offense, in my opinion, is to refer to someone by their first name as if you are their familiar or their superior. There is nothing gentlemanly in doing that.
Knock as much sugar off as you wish. Present your opinions as the most bitter of fruits if that is what you want to do. Just do it in a manner that proves you are the gentleman you proclaim to be.
Hahaha!! There’s always “this guy” to rip apart and dissect others… Thanks for the laugh “Vestal” the hypocrisy that overflows from your comment is nothing short of ridiculous . Time to turn off the computer and enjoy the outdoors don’t you thing?
Pharrell has been doing this look for Yeeaars now… Nothing new, but he (as always) looks fantastic .. He’s always the right amount of funky, love the no socks look ..
If I’m not mistaken, isn’t it never appropriate to wear a watch in black tie, as it indicates the man is concerned with business affairs rather than a leisurely formal evening? Certainly more formal than is realistic or applicable, but I believe Sven Raphael Schneider included this in his guide to formal wear.
James,
In the most traditional sense it is not appropriate to wear a watch, and your reasoning is spot on. However, if one is going to wear a watch, he should do it right.
-JLJ
Enjoyed your critique as usual and agree with them all. One thing I noticed too was that bar one every photo showed jackets with too-long sleeves. How the hell do these blokes get it so wrong when they have stylists and other help to guide them?
Boswell,
I have no idea. Karen (commented also) offered her bow tie tying services, perhaps another reader could offer their hemming services?
-JLJ
You comments are without a doubt spot on. The absolute disregard for the rules has led to a bunch of handsome men looking terrible on the biggest night of the year. They need to focus on learning the rules before breaking them in such a cavalier manner.
Konrad,
I agree, or, at least, when they go to break them, make sure the clothes fit well. A man can get away with so much more when the clothes fit. Or I guess in the case of OJ, when they don’t fit…
-JLJ
“This looks like what would happen if Thom Browne and Men’s Warehouse took a dump next to each other and painted it black.”
I LOVE THAT LINE!!!
Drew,
Thanks! Obviously, I am biased, but I like to think its a fitting reference.
-JLJ
What the hell is terdtacular??? Gentleman do not use made up words! Other than your grammar – your commentary is spot on.
Tony,
It is the first word that wasn’t profanity that came to mind. And yes, I realize my grammar leaves some to be desired.
-JLJ
It will never, ever cease to amaze me how many men neglect to get their pants hemmed. Especially before they appear in front of millions on national television.
Oh, the horror, indeed.
-B
Brock,
I second that.
-JLJ
As usual, spot on and hilarious. Would you please let The Academy know that I am available for perfect bow tie knotting next year. kk
Karen,
That is a very generous for you to offer your services! I will try and relay the message to them!
-JLJ
Nicely observed and laid out. I am not convinced by the white jacket, maybe for a lower end “Black Tie” event, but not something of this stature. With reference to Christian Bale – he did play “The Dark Knight”!
Rob,
It is certainly not for lower end black tie events. It is more of a seasonal and outdoors thing – like seersucker. True, he did play the dark knight, and partly as such he is better fitted for the all black combo, but even then, i still can endorse it.
-JLJ
I’ve got no problem with your critique of the clothing issues presented above as they were all spot on. My problem, understanding that this is your blog, is in your delivery.
The name of your site implies a certain level of knowledge and refinement in ones thoughts and actions yet your comments belie the fact.
“Now he needs a new hair cut.” After posting pictures such as in this article http://www.thefineyounggentleman.com/shopping-advice/arden-reed-suit-review/ ? Make sure your own house is in order before you criticize another man’s house.
“YES I AM SCREAMING AT YOU. CAN YOU HEAR ME?!” and “I will keep this photo for the sole purpose of one day telling my children that if they ever dress like this they will be disowned. Oh, the horror.” Are you a drama queen?
“This looks like what would happen if Thom Browne and Men’s Warehouse took a dump next to each other and painted it black.” and “And then the always terdtacular Ryan Seacrest.” Each of these come off as juvenile and uneducated, much the same as one who peppers their conversations with vulgarities because they aren’t well versed enough to carry on an intelligent conversation.
“PS – if you think I’ve been too harsh on these celebrities please sound off in the comments section below so that I know to sugar coat things less next time.” Are you a child?
And the worst offense, in my opinion, is to refer to someone by their first name as if you are their familiar or their superior. There is nothing gentlemanly in doing that.
Knock as much sugar off as you wish. Present your opinions as the most bitter of fruits if that is what you want to do. Just do it in a manner that proves you are the gentleman you proclaim to be.
Hahaha!! There’s always “this guy” to rip apart and dissect others… Thanks for the laugh “Vestal” the hypocrisy that overflows from your comment is nothing short of ridiculous . Time to turn off the computer and enjoy the outdoors don’t you thing?
*think
Nick Cannon looks like he walked into the barrier poles and they stuck to his feet.
White linen pocket square is more formal than silk or cotton?
I always thought silk is… more luxurious fabric while linen is casual and wrinkle easily
Vestal: Time to calm down and understand the concept of humour. 😉
Pharrell has been doing this look for Yeeaars now… Nothing new, but he (as always) looks fantastic .. He’s always the right amount of funky, love the no socks look ..
The best tux story I know of was James Hunt turning up impeccably dressed in tux…. only flip flops instead of patent.