A BLACK TIE (LOVE) AFFAIR

Ah yes, the black tie. A staple in any wardrobe. If you don't have one, then make it happen, man. I'll show you how versatile it can be by pairing it with 5 dope outfits that are not suits. They do, however, require dress shirts. We haven't taken fashion to a place where ties are worn without dress shirts. I don't think anyone wants to - or should - go there. But anyway, I opted for a crisp white shirt and black pants for my selections, but those aren't rules. Play around with what you have. Remember - style is an art. Paint yourself. Don't put on your crisp white shirt directly afterwards though. Anyway, let me know which one you like best!

1. Wear it under a hoodie or down jacket. You'll be warm and still look professional. 

2. Try putting on a clean track jacket. It may not be for everyone, but you should at least keep it in the running... 

3. Throw on a leather [moto] jacket. A black leather jacket over a black tie? That's #winning all day long.

4. Grab your nicest varsity jacket. Who cares if you didn't make the team? At least you can look like you own the team.

5. The most formal look out of the bunch is the cardigan. Wear it to work and then to your evening festivities while looking like the sharpest dude all day.