Welcome to The Invitation, a new GQ column where we help you get suited up for any hyper-specific situation you might find on your calendar.
The Invite
Your close pal’s celebration in the back room of downtown’s buzziest new restaurant. You’re the best man, which means you’re in charge of the bar crawl once Grandma rolls out.
The Look
Nothing says “loosen up, everyone” like a full-tilt ’70s-rocker rig. We’re talking a louche leather jacket (belted, not moto) and dark trousers with a bit of break where the fabric hits your footwear—or better yet, some flare. Get your shoes shined, and don’t be afraid to order a round of shots from the jump. Grandma likes to party too.
The Invite
A post-work mixer for your manager, who’s on his second marriage—and giving you the gift of being OOO for two weeks on his honeymoon.
The Look
Even if you’re heading there straight from the office, you’ll want to dress snappier than you usually would. Keep your 9-to-5 button-up, but layer on a preppy cardigan in a blazing primary tone. Let’s be honest: You’re aiming to do a handsome lap, then move on to your own extracurricular activities.
The Invite A country-club brunch for your girlfriend’s
The Invite
A country-club brunch for your girlfriend’s cousin and her heart-surgeon fiancé…and their very extended families. Both sides use “summer” as a verb.
The Look
Leave the gold-button blazers and boat shoes to the guys with “II” and “III” after their names. A double-breasted sport coat, offset by a power-clashing striped shirt and maybe a brooch, will set you apart in the right way—as a man of taste and character who marches to the beat of his own stylish drum.
PRODUCTION CREDITS:
Styled by Haley Gilbreath
Grooming by Laramie using Dior Beauty
Tailoring by Ksenia Golub
A version of this story originally appeared in the September 2026 issue of GQ with the title “You Are Cordially Invited To…Your 12th Engagement Party of the Season.”
Source: www.gq.com
