A reader named James showed his mom (a Cary Grant fan), our post about black tie, which featured his photograph. She insisted he watch the Grant film To Catch A Thief, and he was particularly impressed by this outfit. So are we. This is style FOR REAL.
James was wondering if Grant was wearing an ascot above – it looks like a scarf or a kerchief to us. He asked if someone could wear something like this today, and I think it’s possible, but it would be tough. You’d have to be consistently well dressed, and in a context where being casual but dashing was called for (seaside date?). And you’d have to keep it modest, which Grant is doing here. You’re making enough of a statement with the silk, you don’t need to flounce it around like a mid-80s Prince shirt.
Also: it doesn’t hurt to be spectacularly handsome.