The life of an up-and-coming actor is not as easy as it sounds. You're slightly too famous to peacefully pop to the newsagents for a hangover-crushing can of Rubicon, or pull together an outfit without it being harshly scrutinised. No one wants to be remembered for that last-minute red carpet look you didn’t have time to prep for; and while scathing 'Worst Dressed' lists are thankfully a thing of the past, social media has a very good memory. Your ‘fits, just like the gigs and parts you accept, leave a lasting impression of what you're about.

Paul Mescal is a fine example of someone who makes good choices. Starting with his breakout role in Normal People – where he singlehandedly brought back the allure of the flat gold chain – to his most recent project Aftersun, the Irish actor has yet to experience anything but critical acclaim. And his outfits are equally matched in excellence.

It was at the premiere of Charlotte Wells’ debut where Mescal was applauded for more than his acting. His Gucci suit, layered over a simple white tank and styled with a Cartier watch and chain (one for the Connell fans) gave men worldwide the confidence to ditch the classic shirt for a balmy-apropos layer. And let’s not forget his ensemble at the British Independent Film Awards last month. The actor showed homage to his birth-country by repping fellow Irish designer, Simone Rocha, where his custom suit featured pearl-embellished socks and earrings to match.

london, england october 13 paul mescal attends the aftersun uk premiere during the 66th bfi london film festival at the bfi southbank on october 13, 2022 in london, england photo by eamonn m mccormackgetty images for bfi
Eamonn M. McCormack//Getty Images
london, england december 04 paul mescal attends the british independent film awards 2022 at old billingsgate on december 04, 2022 in london, england photo by mike marslandwireimage
Mike Marsland//Getty Images

And last night, Mescal stepped back into the spotlight to give more suit inspo. At the press night for the opening of A Streetcar Named Desire at the Almeida Theatre, London, in which he plays Stanley, the BAFTA-winning actor wore a mesh of the two aforementioned looks. The outfit was built from that familiar white tank, positioned underneath a Connolly shirt with an open collar and deep V, tucked into Simone Rocha trousers with a matching blazer. Accessories were kept simple but classic; a small hoop ring complimented the Cartier watch and patent Harrys of London shoes for solid footing. With a bit of man-cleavage, British brand alliance and unpretentious charm, there’s nothing not to like about this Donnie Brasco-esque ‘fit.

As 2023 is packed with new releases for the 26-year-old, and we're just as excited for the red carpet looks.