The Emmys aren't one of those awards shows with a reputation for out-there outfits (like the VMAs) or a, shall we say, party-friendly vibe (looking at you, Golden Globes). So you'd be forgiven for not expecting too much from the red carpet, especially when it comes to the guys. But this year, some of the biggest stars in television went ahead and turned it the hell out with some seriously great style. We're not talking about anything too crazy here—just great tuxes, on-point tailoring, and a willingness to veer just far enough outside of the safe zone and do something genuinely interesting.

Take, for instance, Brett Gelman's rich, rusty shawl-collar tux. Or William Jackson Harper's super-subtle polka dots. Or, if you're feeling particularly daring, there's always Dan Levy's black-and-brown combo, which takes everything you thought you knew about menswear, scoffs, and throws it out the window (all while looking downright fantastic). That's not all, though. From the understated (Milo Ventimiglia's dinner jacket) to the, well, not (James Van Der Beek's foray into velvet), this year's best-dressed guys showed that they understand all the rules of dressing for the red carpet—which is exactly why they're allowed to break them. Take a look at the folks who stood a cut above the rest.