Elegance is all about the little details being there to add depth, colour and complexity to ensembles. For example, a pearl tie pin may not be noticed at first, but when it is it can be a positively potent conversation starter. Elegant accessories like cufflinks, pocket squares and leather bracelets can have their ridiculous members but those are reserved for either the overcompensating or insecure sartorial blasphemers. I am not saying don't wear yellow or pink or rainbow even, just don't overwhelm your palette nor bring too much attention to individual accessories, nothing screams cheap like a person who's outfit shrieks "look at me!!"
This is a prime form of audacious yet elegant style. This is Mads Mikkelsen's portrayal of Dr. Hannibal Lecter in the TV series Hannibal. As you can see, the character favours windowpane and prince of Wales check suits of the 3 piece variety, this one has a double breasted waistcoat (note the severe crossing of the waistcoat's lapels under the jacket). Despite his large tie not have a sharp dimple, the designs and colour coordination do have elegance, albeit sometimes overstated and perhaps a little strong. There is little imagination to this outfit other than the suit's pattern, but a grey or pastel green shirt would have given the suit a whole new look, with the exception of a different tie and pocket square.
I spoke about showing you too much, well...... This is too much. Words cannot describe my respect for this gentleman as he has such confidence to wear this ensemble, but he pulls it off because of the disdain he wears it with. He sees this outfit as just that, an outfit. No other man I know could wear something so brash as this but he does and it is unfortunately too much. The beauty of his unique style is something to much be admired very much, in contrast (pun intended).
As you have seen, blurring the lines is not bad, but forgetting them is a very dangerous game that can make you look like a clown. A common rule of thumb is this from my experience; save the more audacious, bold patterns for when you gain more experience and knowledge of style. Once you know the rules, break them. Certain rules are there to be broken and bent so play that up.... Just not too much, at first at least.
Thank you for reading, I hope you found this as informative and numerous as I did from writing it.
Stay stylish-stay happy,
-Kieran