Basti Artadi's guide to rocking formalwear
Like death and taxes, the codes of formalwear remain constant. Nevertheless, the rules of what we wear shift. Here, from the strictness of a black tuxedo to the daring of an embroidered jacket, rock star Basti Artadi demonstrates the many different ways of dressing up and dressing right.
01
For warm weather, a white dinner jacket. Choose one in a light, breathable fabric like cotton, gabardine, or linen. Colors such as off-white, cream, and ivory present a natural elegance. Dinner jacket (P199,998) by Christian Dior at Homme 8; shirt (P16,500) by Ascot Chang at Rustan's Makati; trousers and bow tie by T.M. Lewin, Greenbelt 5
02
The white tie dress code has been regarded as the most formal type of civilian apparel for the last two centuries—the apex of formalwear, if you will. Play your cards right by going full dress: peak lapels faced in satin, a wing collared shirt (or a spread collar, as seen here, for a contemporary touch), and black patent leather shoes. Tuxedo (P74,500), shirt (P5,959), bow tie (P3,450), and cummerbund (5,950) by Brooks Brothers, Rustan’s Makati
03
The pinstripe suit, a Gordon Gekko essential typically meant for the boardroom, makes the transition into formalwear with the addition of a waistcoat. Note: Because stripes make enough of a statement, opt for a white shirt and a solid necktie in a muted shade. Suit jacket (54,500), vest (P21,599), tie (P6,450) by Thomas Pink at Rustan's Makati; shirt (P8,150) by Hackett at Rustan's Makati
04
The boundaries of formalwear have gone beyond black or white. Don't shy away from wearing a gray suit to your next evening soirée. A darker shade of gray, paired with a tie in a lighter tone of stone or silver, is recommended. Because you are not wearing a tuxedo or a black suit, you can take liberties with discreet prints such as microdots on your tie. Suit by Ring Jacket, shirt by Avino, tie by Drake's, and pocke tsquare by Simmonot-Godard, all at Signet, Shangri-La at The Fort
05
A bit of eccentricity is permissible in formal dress. You may consider a jacket embroidered with a pattern of bridles and reins, but make sure that all the classic elements (white shirt, black tie, a safe palette) are present. Take caution, gentlemen. Jacket and tie by Hermès, Greenbelt 3; shirt by Avino at Signet, Shangri-La at The Fort
06
Favored by almost every Old Hollywood legend, the black peak lapel tuxedo is a must in the most formal of wardrobes. For lapels: extra wide and satin-faced. For shirts: strictly white with a point, spread, or wing collar. For trousers: flat-front or pleated. For the bow tie: Never pre-tied. A respectable man ties his own bow, be it in satin, grosgrain, or, if he is feeling extra festive, velvet. Tuxedo by Ring Jacket, shirt by Avino, and pocket square by Simmonot-Godard, all at Signet, Shangri-La at The Fort
07
Navy is a decadent and confident alternative to black. Play up its handsome appeal by tinkering with the details—the fold of your pocket square, the cufflinks on your wrist, or, when a measure of fun is allowed, a boutonnière on your jacket. Suit and shirt by Van Laack, Greenbelt 5; tie by Drake's at Signet, Shangri-La at The Fort
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Photographs by Artu Nepomuceno
Produced by Clifford Olanday
Shoot direction by Paul Villariba
Styling by Anton Miranda
Grooming by Joan Teotico
Hair by Mayve Canamo
Styling Assistant Dominique Dy
Production Assistant Ednalyn Magnaye
Shot on location at Muebles Italiano, Paseo de Magallanes
