Archive for June, 2019

Gifts for the groom: a buyer’s guide

By the experts at The Wedding Shop.

† Bespoke engraved ice bucket, The Oak and Rope Company

GIFTS FOR THE GROOM: A BUYER’S GUIDE

GET IT RIGHT EVERY TIME

So you’re keen to get the groom something special to send him happily on his next chapter, but aren’t sure exactly what’s befitting of such a big moment? You’re not alone. As far as gifts go, groom presents are a tricky one, but if you’re looking for a men’s wedding gift, you’ve come to the right place. With a long history of outfitting men for their big day, we know a thing or two about what grooms want, so here’s how to nail it. 

1. TRACK DOWN THE GIFT LIST

First thing’s first, if there’s a gift register – get your hands on it and take a good, hard look. While a groom gift is typically a separate offering to your wedding gift, the gift register will often give a vibe that you can use for inspiration.  

Pay attention to the aesthetic, the couple will have curated it carefully. Did they go for the minimalist crockery set or something a little more fun? This is stylistic information that will prove useful in your quest to find the best gift for the groom. 

† Honeymoon & wedding photobooks, Bob Books

2. MAKE IT PERSONAL

Something that speaks to their personal sense of style is always a sensible choice. It’s the best way to show him you know him, while giving a gift that he’ll really enjoy using. 

Ties are the perfect vehicle for delivering a personalised touch because they come in so many different styles and patterns—there’s bound to be one he identifies with, whether it’s a plain silk or knitted tie for the traditional groom, or a floral tie for the more extravagant. 

† Letterbox flower subscription, Bloom & Wild

3. GIFT SOMETHING THAT WILL LAST A LIFETIME

Weddings are one of the few occasions where you can get away with being overly sentimental, so gifts with meaning are a go-to. We like the symbolism of a gift that will last a lifetime—after all, love is eternal. 

Accessories are great for this—particularly leather goods. As typically practical items, a good leather accessory like a bag or belt, will stand the groom in good stead for many years to come while taking pride of place in their everyday carry. 

SHOP LEATHER BAGS

Cufflinks are a great option too. Though the groom may not wear them every day, cufflinks bring with them a sense of occasion. They’re something the groom can put on when special occasions arise, and do so while being reminded of his big day. Gift them before he officially ties the knot, and he may even wear them down the aisle. 

SHOP CUFFLINKS

† Organic bed linen, Rise & Fall
4. GIVE STYLE

If you’re in the groom’s inner circle, one of the best gifts you can give him is to show up for the wedding looking the part. A high quality wedding guest suit from Moss will ensure you win best dressed. 

If you’re a parent, consider helping them out with a custom made wedding suit for their big day. The question of what to wear is one of the biggest stressors for any groom, so sorting it for them with something bespoke will have them feeling confident as you give them away in style. 

† Guided walking tour, Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve

5. SOMETHING FOR THE FUTURE

Why not gift memories that the couple will treasure forever with an experience that they can both enjoy together? From Michelin-star dining to short city breaks or romantic carriage rides, there’s something for every couple. A romantic first-anniversary dinner at a fancy restaurant or even a weekend away at a boutique hotel will both be really appreciated when the wedding buzz has faded.

What to hire for your uni ball

Score a first-class for style.

WHAT TO HIRE FOR YOUR UNI BALL

SCORE A FIRST-CLASS FOR STYLE
• WORDS: A. FOZZARD

For at least one night at uni, you’ll have to venture away from your usual haunts and go to a ball. Whether it’s through a club or society or arranged by your course, it will probably be black-tie and boozy.

When you’ve spent the entire year making every pound stretch, having to look your best can feel like an extra step too far. That’s where hiring comes in. You can get a sharp tux for a fraction of the price, and as they’re designed to suit everyone, you’ll definitely be the one who got it right.

Here’s our take on three great options.

GO FOR SOMETHING WITH COLOUR

Black tie doesn’t have to mean black suit, so feel free to wear something with a bit of colour (especially if you opted for black at your school prom). We’re not suggesting turning up in a canary yellow three-piece, but something like this claret one instead. Ryan Gosling, John Boyega and Chris Hemsworth have all worn deep red suits on the red carpet, so you’ll be following in very worthy footsteps.

Keep it pared back with a white shirt and a black tie. If you want to mix things up a bit, add in some loafers rather than the standard Oxfords.

NB: if you’re taking a date, do check what they’re wearing before you go for this one. It has a tendency to clash with bright pink, red and green, and you won’t want to avoid each other all evening.

GO FOR A VINTAGE CLASSIC

Midnight blue suits came to into their own in the 1920s because they actually looked darker than black suits under artificial lighting. This one‘s deep hue nods to vintage style but, as it’s cut in Moss London’s slim fit, it’ll give you a pin-sharp profile too. That means it’s got the best of both worlds – vintage look, modern cut.

When it comes to classic black tie, the holy grail is to keep things simple. Style it with a white dress shirt and black bow-tie. Sorted.

GO FOR THE OLD FAITHFUL

A black dinner suit always looks the part for a ball. Hire a well-loved brand like Ted Baker or French Connection to show you’ve moved away from what you wore to prom.

Choose this one by French Connection for a narrow fit through your shoulders, chest and waist for a really defined look. Or choose this suit by Ted Baker for a contemporary but tailored fit.

You’ve got loads of styling options with a simple black tux. Wear a waistcoat to smarten up your look even more or try bringing in some colour with your accessories. Add in a bright cummerbund or go for a bow-tie in a colour other than black.

If you’ve got a particularly strict dress code, you can still have a mini rebellion with your socks (as long as you’ll still be allowed into the party).

 

BROWSE BLACK TIE SUITS