Men's Guide to Holiday Dressing

No, we don't mean tossing on that lame Santa Claus tie  and calling it a day.  We mean putting together a few no-fail looks to get you through your holiday calendar of events (you know--the concerts, the cocktail parties, and of course the big New Year's Eve bash).

Top Picks

Here are the basics you should have in your holiday wardrobe:

1. Tuxedo: Channel your inner Cary Grant and opt for a traditional single-breasted tuxedo. 
2. Cashmere Sweater: How about a charcoal gray turtleneck  to make you extra cuddly?
3. Dress Slacks: Well-fitting charcoal gray pants  will get your through many tricky fashion situations.
4. Blazer: If you're feeling extra festive try a velvet smoking jacket,  for a more conservative look, consider a camel blazer. 
5. Crisp White Shirt: A French-cuffed shirt  is a nice idea. Make sure the collar and sleeves fit your body.

Now that you know the five basic things you need for your wardrobe, below are some simple shopping tips to make your search easier. You may also want to read these general shopping guides before whipping out your gold card: Style Resources for Men and Men's Guide to Getting Dressed.

Must Have Items

Tuxedo  What to look for: Lightweight wool  and NO synthetic fabrics--they don't breath and the suit will be hot, hot, hot. Single-breasted styles are the most flattering. Classic pleated trousers  always work well. How to wear: Single-breasted tuxes require a cumberbund.  Pair with black dress shoes  or men's pumps.  White tuxedo shirt.  Make sure it's pressed. Brands to consider: Armani  Brooks Brothers  Ralph Lauren	Cashmere Sweater  What to look for: Correct size should fit under a blazer. Crew neck  or v-neck  styles should also be able to worn with a dress shirt underneath. Versatile colors include charcoal gray,  black  and navy.  How to wear: Turtlenecks  look great under a short coat and can be worn with dress trousers or jeans.  Pair a crew neck or v-neck with a crisp white shirt and dress trousers. Brands to consider: John Varvatos  Zegna  Kashmere	Dress Trousers for Men  What to look for: Wool  or a wool-blend fabric. Pleats are most conservative. Flat  front may work if you are trim. Dark colors, like charcoal,  navy,  dark olive  or black,  will match most stuff in your closet. Read the pants guide for more details. How to wear: Pair flat fronts  with a turtleneck  for sleek urban look. A V-neck sweater  plus a tie  will work for church and brunches; add a short coat for dinner parties. Brands to consider: Zanetti  Jos. A. Bank  DKNY	Men's Blazer  What to look for: Classics include camel hair,  cashmere houndstooth.  Fashion-savvy guys can pull off velvet.  Well fitting shoulders and arm holes--it must be able to button in front. Single-breasted jackets only! How to wear: Camel hair blazer + charcoal turtleneck  + charcoal pants  = perfect. Black velvet smoking jacket  + charcoal pants  + crisp white shirt = sexy cool. Brands to consider: Hart Schaffner & Marx  Jil Sander  Calvin Klein	Men's White Dress Shirt  What to look for: Proper sizing in neck and arm length. Tailoring details like mother of pearl buttons and clean tiny stitches. Match your collar to your face shape. How to wear: French cuffs go with blazers. Button sleeves can be worn with everything. A tiny amount of shirt should peak out of the arm hole. Monogramming should be small and discreet. Brands to consider: Van Heusen  Ted Baker  Gucci

That Festive Holiday Clothing

These might not be the most stylish items, but they are a great way to show your holiday spirit this season.

Christmas Cufflinks  These add a little Christmas pizazz to your formal attire for this year's holiday parties.	Christmas Hawaiian Shirt  Going somewhere tropical for the holidays?  Get in the holiday spirit with a Christmas-themed Hawaiian shirt.	Christmas Socks  Embroidered socks are a discreet way to add a little holiday spirit to your work attire.	Christmas Sweater  The classic Christmas sweater might not be the most stylish apparel, but it is a great way to show off your holiday cheer.

 

Christmas Tie  A Christmas tie will spruce up your regular old work clothing.	Christmas T-Shirt  For the more casual times, a funny Christmas t-shirt can brighten everybody's spirit.	Christmas Pajamas  Your family can get matching Christmas pajamas to sleep in while Santa visits your home.	Christmas Boxers  If you're lucky, someone will notice your Christmas-themed underwear this year.

Staying Winter Chic

These are some hot items that will ensure that you will stay in fashion when it gets cold this winter.

British Commando Sweater  The commando sweater is a stylish way to keep warm this winter.	Cardigan  This is part of the geek-chic style that has been hot for a few years.	Overcoat  Ditch the windbreaker and go with a stylish wool overcoat.	Henley Shirt  These are a perfect casual look for the Fall/Winter season.	Sweater Vest  The classic sweater vest is warm and diversifies your regular wardrobe.

Related Guides

Clothing for Men	Men's Sport Coats and Blazers	Men's Pants	Holiday Guide

External Links

• eHow.com: How to Buy a Tuxedo.
• Cashmere101.com: Tips for buying and caring for cashmere.
• Style.com: Answers all your burning questions about short coats and blazers.
• LoveToKnow.com: Everything you need to know about dress shirts.