Outfit Inspiration: Angelina Jolie’s BAFTA Tuxedo

Angelina Jolie at the 2014 BAFTA Awards

Angelina Jolie at the 2014 BAFTA Awards

London Fashion Week isn’t the only thing causing a stir across the Atlantic. It just so happens that Fashion Week (in reality, fashion month) coincides with awards season, so last weekend, many members of the A-list hopped the pond to attend the BAFTA Awards. The red carpet included your usual suspects: gowns, cocktail frocks, full princess skirts, but of course Angelina Jolie stepped out on the carpet in an unexpected look and caught the attention of every photographer and attendee.

Clad in a cool Saint Laurent tux, she look modern and powerful. Even among her gown-clad peers, the razor-sharp tailoring and clean, classic black-and-white made her look dressed up and red-carpet ready without the fuss of haute couture. It’s a daring look and, believe it or not, something that’s easy to replicate for mere mortals. Bring out your inner Angelina and try the look yourself next time you’re headed to a cocktail party or office event — no red carpet necessary.

Theory Larissa Shirt in Luxe Stretch Cotton

Theory Larissa Shirt in Luxe Stretch Cotton

The perfect white shirt is hard to find, trust us, so when you’ve got one that checks all of your boxes (fit, fabrication, etc.) then you should definitely stock up. Theory makes it easy, because their classic Larissa Shirt ($215) is always available, no matter the season. It’s got everything you could ask for in a shirt and then adds a touch of stretch so that you’re comfortable. Make sure that your shirt is tailored and that it’s got a good, strong collar so that you can wear it with the buttons open a la Angelina or buttoned up with a statement necklace. And don’t think that you need just white. If you’ve found the perfect shirt, make sure you get it in a slew of colors so that you’ve always gone one at the ready. Whether you choose to go high-end or not, just make sure the shirt fits just right and you’ll look like a million bucks.

Available at Theory.

Angelina Jolie's Red Carpet Tuxedo

Angelina Jolie’s Red Carpet Tuxedo

1. If you’re borrowing a look from the boys, you’ve got to do it right. Stick to classics, but don’t be too literal — make sure that the proportions are modern and the shapes are still feminine. Club Monaco’s Amalia Blazer ($298) and Ryan Pant ($198.50) are cut slim and have cropped lengths, so you’ll keep a long, lean line even though you’re wearing menswear staples. Plus, they’ve both got a touch of leather to add a twist to basic black.

2. No need to splurge on something like a bow tie, especially if you’re going to just keep it untied like Angelina. Try one from ASOS ($18.52).

3. Another thing to keep your look feminine? A smoldering eye. The Benefit Smokin’ Eyes… ($36) has the basic shades you’ll need — and a how-to guide — to create a sexy, classic smoky eye all in one compact kit.

4. If your pants don’t have a leather detail like Club Monaco’s Ryan, add some a shining belt to define your waist. The Lauren Ralph Lauren Patent Belt with Double Keeper and Chain ($33.60) adds a swingy chain to a basic belt you can wear with anything.

5. Angelina finished her look off with simple pumps, and we think that keeps the look clean and sexy. If you haven’t found the perfect pair, opt for the Charles David Sway II ($99.90), which does away with hidden platforms, embellishment and extras and just shines with its simple shape and leg-flattering point.

Images courtesy Theory, US Weekly, Bloomingdale’s, Nordstrom, Club Monaco and Sephora

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Author:Christopher Luu for Fashion Trends Daily

Christopher Luu is a Fashion Trends Daily Senior Writer and Menswear Editor.