Look of the Week: Barry Keoghan makes the case for the male pussy-bow | CNN
At first, it might have gone unnoticed. However, amidst the usual glitz and glamour of the Governors Ball in Los Angeles on Sunday night, there was a group of fashion rebels, each challenging the conventional button-down shirt.
At the forefront was actor Barry Keoghan, who donned a complete Dolce & Gabbana suit, which included a black cropped satin jacket. The standout piece of his outfit was a beautifully draped white blouse with a pussy-bow, reminiscent of styles seen during Kamala Harris' campaign appearances. On Keoghan, this piece had a romantic and alluring feel, blending elements of the flashy open shirts popular in the '70s with the elegant cravats of earlier times.
He wasn't the only one turning away from typical attire. Jude Law showed up in a white tank top with a whimsical necktie, while Nicholas Hoult chose to wear a classy white satin t-shirt beneath his Saint Laurent suit. Drew Starkey, known for his role alongside Daniel Craig in Luca Guadagnino's upcoming movie "Queer," made a bold statement in a bright red Valentino suit designed by Alessandro Michele, paired with a silk panna shirt. His stand collar was adorned with a black velvet clasp.
If Keoghan's lavallière tie had a hint of the past, then Paul Mescal's shirt was a loud proclamation. His Shakespearean-inspired blouse seemed better suited for a Renaissance fair than a glamorous red carpet, yet its light cream color and tie-front design breathed fresh life into the Gucci tuxedo. While it wasn't exactly method dressing—given the centuries separating the Elizabethan period from ancient Rome, the backdrop of Mescal's new film "Gladiator II"—it certainly paid homage to historical fashion.
As social media elevates fashion to a key form of entertainment, the importance of red carpet outfits for actors' online personas has surged. This year, men in suits have been making effective efforts to stand out. At the recent Met Gala, some of the most eye-catching outfits came from male guests, like Wisdom Kaye’s striking burnt-orange suit by Robert Wun and Usher’s dramatic cape. Last year, Timothée Chalamet was among several male stars who went shirtless, challenging tradition by opting for suits paired with bare chests. He even braved a chilly December night in London sporting little more than pink velvet and an eye-catching necklace.
For those who might be hesitant to brave the cold, the Governors Ball served as a useful reminder that wearing shirts is still an option; they may just need a fresh presentation with a little flair.
