The New York premiere of the Amy Adams movie “Big Eyes” kicked off on December 15^th at the Museum of Modern Art. Cast members in attendance included male lead Cristoph Waltz, and co-stars Krysten Ritter and Jason Schwartzman. Ms. Adams wore a forest green shirt dress on the red carpet, and co-star Krysten Ritter wore a J. Mendel pleated dress with a black top and gold skirt. Cristoph Waltz and Jason Schwartzman wore dress suits in a subtle gray stripe and solid black, respectively. Both wore solid-colored dress shirts and ties in muted grays and blues. Overall, the stars’ red carpet look was casual elegance. The subject of the movie, Margaret Keane, even made a surprise appearance at the movie premiere.

“Big Eyes” focuses on the true life story of Margaret Keane, the artist who created the very famous paintings of tiny children with huge eyes. Keane’s paintings became wildly popular in the 50’s and 60’s and earned a huge amount of money. But the drama of the story centers on the fact that, at the time, no one knew that Margaret had created them, because her husband Walter (who was also an aspiring artist) took all the credit, and the money, for her paintings. The movie follows Margaret as she evolves from her husband’s accomplice in the deception, to a woman who decides to stand up for herself. The movie culminates in a dramatic courtroom scene in which Margaret finally accuses her husband of stealing from her. After hearing the evidence, and seeing Margaret paint her famous children, the jury finally rules in favor of Margaret. Although the male stars of “Big Eyes” opted for a more casual look than some of the flamboyant red carpet styles we have seen in the past, such as colored tuxedos and pattern tuxedo vests, the more laid-back look was appropriate for this small, somewhat subdued Tim Burton movie. Waltz paired high-gloss black dress shoes with his suit. Consistent with the look of informal elegance, neither Waltz or Schwartzman wore jewelry besides a wedding ring. Waltz’ hair style was a short, classic side part style. Schwartzman also wore a side part, but his hair was straight and collar-length. As these male stars demonstrated, a pressed dress suit, dress shirt and tie are appropriate for some low-key formal events. But don't forget that some elements of more formal wear can be paired with a dress suit: elegant cufflinks, or men’s tuxedo shoes, to add just the right amount of class. Any man with a movie premiere to attend – or perhaps a gallery showing of his own artwork – can arrive looking sharp and stylish in a dress suit. But if the occasion is more formal, there’s nothing more reliably elegant and correct than a classic black tuxedo. New York is home to many elegant clothiers for men, and they will be happy to help you find the one tuxedo that’s the perfect look, and fit, for you.