TUXEDO TIME
It’s that time of year again! By now we have trimmed the tree, opened our gifts, had our fill of Christmas cookies…hmmm, maybe just a few more of those…and set our sights on the New Year ahead. Before we dive into the unknown of 2019, there’s just one more thing to do…..well…..celebrate!!
As the old Frank Loesser song goes, “What are you doing New Year’s Eve?” If you haven’t heard Nancy Wilson’s version of this timeless classic, give yourself a treat and check it out.
This night conjures up so many images and has a variety of meanings for everyone. For me, the images that immediately come to mind are ladies in evening gowns, furs, perhaps a tiara or two, champagne, Times Square and handsome men in tuxedos.
Talk about a classic! The tuxedo fills the bill on all counts. It was first introduced into our culture around 1888 in none other than Tuxedo Park, New York. Imagine…right in our back yard. Tuxedo Park, in New York’s Hudson Valley, was a sort of enclave for New York’s social elite. It’s fascinating that this worldwide symbol of class and sophistication had such small town roots.
It has been said that no man ever looked bad in a tuxedo. I quite agree. However, there are some men who, I have to admit, looked better than others. That tailored look is so timeless that even women got on board. Something about that satin lapel that just makes me swoon. It is truly the epitome of dress sophistication. Sharing a few of my personal favorites, as well as some newer takes on the classic silhouette.
We can't have a list of the best-worn tuxedos and not include Cary Grant. Handsome is an understatement. To Catch a Thief. 1955. 
The same can be said about these three...The great Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby, and Dean Martin looking as dapper as ever. 
James Bond, also known as Daniel Craig looking incredibly chic in this navy number.
We need to give credit where credit is due, and Marlene Dietrich is said to have made the tuxedo gender defying in the 1930 movie 'Morocco.' 
Bianca Jagger wearing a double-breasted YSL "Le smoking" tuxedo. YSL introduced his version of the woman's tuxedo in his 1966 show.
This list would not be complete without the queen of the pant suit, Katherine Hepburn circa 1940. AP; Everett Collection
Cara Delevingne taking a fresh spin.
Ralph Lauren presented a reimagined evening tuxedo for the "modern woman" at an event at Althorp. Loving that textile!
Charlize Theron nailing the look.
And lastly, here are a few others we are loving! We don't have sources, but maybe they will inspire you to try out the tuxedo for yourself tonight!
Happy New Year!
