Not a Harness: The *Alternative* BDSM-Inspired Accessory Jacob Elordi Is Bringing into the Spotlight

      Reflect back to early 2019. In January, Timothée Chalamet made his entrance on the red carpet at the Golden Globes wearing a couture accessory by the late Louis Vuitton menswear designer and Off-White founder Virgil Abloh. (Later, the actor known for his role in Marty Supreme informed Ellen DeGeneres on The Ellen DeGeneres Show that he was told it was a bib rather than a harness, a clarification confirmed by the brand.) Although he was nominated for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Beautiful Boy, it was his sequined, BDSM-inspired piece that captured the spotlight that evening and in the weeks that followed. Suddenly, harnesses were in vogue, making appearances on Michael B. Jordan at the SAG Awards shortly after (his was also designed by Abloh). While harnesses—sorry, bibs—didn't maintain a long-lasting presence on the red carpet for men, this fleeting trend had a significant impact on men's fashion. Traditional, straightforward tuxedos were left behind. During award season, a menswear look now required something distinctive and unexpected to gain praise, whether it was a brooch or an unusually unbuttoned shirt, both of which have become increasingly trendy in recent years. As we approach a new year, another BDSM-inspired accessory is beginning to emerge.

      In the first days of 2026, Jacob Elordi unveiled not one, but two leather ties, both crafted by his close friends at Bottega Veneta. They are understated, alluring, and luxurious in an almost unexpected fashion. An accessory that could easily appear, well, cheap looks anything but when styled correctly. Naturally, it helps that Elordi was the one wearing it, and he paired the leather tie with two custom-tailored suits from the Italian brand's new creative director, Louise Trotter.

      Elordi's leather ties have quickly become his signature on the red carpet since the beginning of 2026, but he was incorporating them into his wardrobe before the year changed too. Back in October, he donned one at a special screening of his new Guillermo del Toro film, Frankenstein, in New York City. The tie was black with a subtle sheen, complementing his navy-blue double-breasted suit, gray shirt, and black Intrecciato shoes, all from Bottega Veneta. He completed the outfit with red-tinted sunglasses, the same ones he wore at the recent Critics Choice Awards.

      On January 3, Elordi launched award season in Palm Springs at the 37th annual Palm Springs International Film Awards, where he again sported Bottega Veneta. This time, he opted for a custom-made single-breasted suit in a soft oat, fitting for the event's locale. His Fondant leather tie was a surprising touch that added to the accessory's appeal.

      At the 2026 Critics Choice Awards in Los Angeles, Elordi arrived in an all-black ensemble (except for his signature red eyewear), matching his black leather tie with another custom suit—a double-breasted design featuring hidden buttons—paired with a black shirt, Intrecciato shoes, and small gold hoop earrings. Everything was tailored to perfection, and his leather tie added just the right amount of texture and depth to the otherwise minimalistic look.

      With award season just underway, it seems likely that this won't be the last time we see Elordi in a leather tie, especially considering the attention Frankenstein and his portrayal of the main character are receiving. If the influence of this accessory proves to be as impactful as Chalamet's iconic bib, we can expect to see it on others as the awards season continues, culminating in the Oscars in March.

      Ahead, explore the trend that's taking over men's fashion on the red carpet, all thanks to Elordi and his newfound affinity for leather ties.

      Shop Bottega Veneta Leather Ties:

      - Bottega Veneta Intrecciato Leather Tie in Fondant

      - Bottega Veneta Leather Tie in Dark Green

      - Bottega Veneta Shiny Leather Tie in Olive

      - Bottega Veneta Smooth Leather Tie in Shadow

      - Bottega Veneta Shiny Leather Tie in Kale