The Dressy Holiday Party: Gents’ 6 Key Looks for 3 Types of Parties

A spread collar white shirt is always an appropriate choice. But pairing this suit with a blue and white Bengal stripe dress shirt, which is a classic pattern, has a more modern and dressy feel.

Alexander Olch makes some of the best patterned wool ties around, and we cannot wait to wear this tartan plaid to holiday events. While it certainly plays into the spirit of the season, the fabulous wool texture keeps it sophisticated and timeless. If a quieter tie is preferred, this dark red patterned tie from Hugo Boss will look just as good. And don't forget the finishing touch of a pocket square.

2. Cocktail Party: If you want to have some fun and make a completely appropriate fashion statement, this navy blue cotton velvet shawl collar blazer from J. Crew is the perfect choice. It’s not everyday that we get the chance to step outside the box a little, so while it’s not something you’ll get to wear to the office, you’ll certainly get to reach for this jacket a few times this holiday season – and next. J. Crew’s price makes it an easy choice to try this dapper and distinctive jacket in a sleek, contemporary fit. When completing the outfit, we treat it as a dressy navy blazer, so there are plenty of options.

We cannot pass up the opportunity to finish this look with this blue/green tartan wool tie from J. Crew. The colors and narrower width are the ideal match to the shawl collar and color of the blazer. A tartan bow tie is an equally strong option – you can’t go wrong with either choice.

The grey stripe of this Canali dress shirt work perfectly with the dark navy suit.  The French cuffs and spread collar add that touch of dressy feeling that is just right.

This red Burberry plaid tie is a sophisticated way of introducing holiday color without going overboard, in its muted color palette. The newer, somewhat narrower width, gives the suit a modern feel.

A navy suit always looks great with a brown shoe. Made in Italy, the rich burnished leather of this To Boot New York cap toe with a leather outsole has the same level of polish and sophistication to hold up effortlessly to the suit. As noted on Zappos’ site, this style does run large, so we suggest ordering down a half size. With a brown shoe, you need a brown belt, and this Allen-Edmonds is timeless.

Keeping with the updated look of the suit, To Boot New York’s modern derby style shoe has all the fine details we require - made in Italy from beautiful calfskin leather, lined in leather, as well as a leather insole and outsole. You will enjoy the comfort of these shoes, while everyone else can enjoy the look. Don’t forget this coordinating black leather belt from Magnanni – modern and really well made, so you’ll have it forever.