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 grey turtleneck  to make you extra cuddly?
3. Dress Slacks -- Well-fitting charcoal grey pants  will get your through many tricky fashion situations.
4. Blazer -- If your 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 you know the five 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,  NO synthetics fabrics--they don't breath and suit will bet hot, hot, hot. Single-breasted is most flattering. Classic pleated trousers.  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  should also be able to worn with a dress shirt underneath. Versatile colors include charcoal grey,  black  and navy.  How to wear: Turtlenecks  look great under a short coat and worn with dress trousers or jeans.  Pair a crew neck or v-neck with crisp white shirt and dress trousers. Brands to consider: John Varvatos  Zegna  Kashmere	Dress Trousers for Men  What to look for: Wool  or 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 turtleneck  for sleek urban look. V-neck sweater  plus a tie  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--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 arm hole on short coat or sweater. Monogramming should be small and discreet. Brands to consider: Van Heusen  Ted Baker  Gucci

External Links

• eHow -- How to Buy a Tuxedo.
• Cashmere 101 -- Tips for buying and caring for cashmere.
• Men's Style -- Answers all your burning questions about short coats and blazers.
• Love to Know-- Everything you need to know about dress shirts.