The tuxedo may be the single most elegant garment a modern man can wear—despite its origins as a method for keeping one’s inner peacock in check so the ladies could strut their stuff at a formal event. These days, the excuse to wear a tux comes along all too rarely, and when circumstances compel you to wear one—whether on New Year's or at a wedding or charity event—the occasion should be savored like a fine whisky. Or better yet, with a fine whisky, like the Glen Garioch our friend Andrija is sipping above.

Despite the built-in limitations of the look, there are choices to be made: Do you prefer midnight blue or black (both equally acceptable)? Peak lapel or notch? Grosgrain detailing or satin? And don’t forget the details, like choice of cuff link, bow tie vs. necktie, style of shirt and dress shoe—maybe even a cummerbund, if you’re feeling traditional.

Once you’ve made your sartorial decisions, take your time and put your look together with care. After all, when you’re wearing what amounts to a uniform, it’s the details that differentiate. And besides, the party will be there when you’re ready.

Stylist: Josh Peskowitz; photographer: Roxanne Lowit; production coordinator: Ashley Boer; groomer: Scott McMahan at agentoliver.com; model: Andrija at Wilhelmina; shot on location at The Standard in New York City