I'm watching Paul Mescal on the red carpet Gladiator IIWith the premiere in Sydney, one would think that the weather down under played a role in deciding its fit. Australia is in for a very pleasant summer, after all, which might explain his lighter suit and open shirt collar. Some ventilation is required.

But you would only be half right. In fact, this particular suit has become something of a Mescal trademark in recent months. There is a distinctive feature: a classic double-breasted silhouette, the jacket is unbuttoned, the collar is left open and there is a noticeable lack of collar.

Hanna Lassen/Getty Images

Mescal has worn this uniform repeatedly. At the Academy Museum Gala earlier this month with a tiny Cartier; at the premiere of We are all strangers last year with a henley; at the London Critics' Circle Film Awards with nothing underneath; and at the BAFTAs – although we have to admit the collar was buttoned back then. This means Mescal hasn't worn a more traditional tuxedo since last year's Oscars, which is March 2023.

Paul Mescal at the Academy Museum Gala in October.Taylor Hill

Mescal at the London Critics' Circle Film Awards 2024 in February.Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images

Now in Sydney, for the first of several global events gladiator Mescal took care of everything at the premieres. This time it was a rust-colored three-button suit, worn over – you guessed it – a pale yellow tunic with an open collar. A pair of shiny black boots, a gold-framed watch and an Australian-style mullet completed the look.

It's not just Paul Mescal who is loosening things up. Last week, it seemed like nearly every man on the red carpet at the Academy Museum Gala was openly rebelling against the tie, while at other events we've seen more colors, shapes, and accessories of the suit than ever before. Will the red carpet become cool and wavy again? Do guys just have more fun when the rules are less strict? Are people just looking for something new?

The jury may be out yet. If nothing else happens, if Paul Mescal looks this good, then what does it matter?

This story originally appeared on British GQ.