Archive for March, 2023

How to wear merino in the spring

Here’s how to wear merino jumpers, polos and T-shirts in warmer weather.

 

HOW TO WEAR MERINO IN WARMER WEATHER

Words: T. MacInnis

When you think of merino wool, you might see a big, thick jumper, ideal for a chilly winter day. But, thanks to its moisture-wicking abilities, merino wool is actually a great fabric for sunnier weather.

Read on to see our best spring-ready merino pieces and find out how to wear them as the weather (hopefully) turns a bit warmer.

Merino zip-neck jumper

Spring in the UK can be incredibly unpredictable, which is why you need versatile layers that can keep you warm when it’s cool, but lightweight enough so you don’t overheat. This merino zip-neck jumper in a dusty pink shade is spot on. Wear it with chinos for the office, wear it under a suit for a smart-casual look, and wear it with shorts when the weather veers into summery territory.

Merino quarter-zip polo

If you love a classic polo, up your game with this merino one that trades the usual buttons for a quarter zip. The polo silhouette means it makes perfect sense with shorts on hotter days, and you’ll get that moisture-wicking ability from the merino. But, the texture of the merino also makes it a bit more appropriate for pairing with a suit for another great smart-causal look, ideal for a city wedding.

Merino T-shirt

Everyone loves a good T-shirt. But if you’re bored of the basics, why not try something a bit different? Merino is a great alternative to your usual cotton, again for keeping you cool, but also adding some visual interest to what could be a simple look. You’ll be reaching for this one in its deep blue shade all summer long, whether you’re packing for a holiday or headed to the pub with friends.

We love merino because it’s a natural fabric with amazing temperature-regulating abilities, and the yarns we’ve chosen retain their shape so your piece will always look as good as it did the day you bought it. Try it out this season and you’ll always feel comfortable, no matter what the weather brings.

Posted March 29th, 2023 in Style.

How to build a capsule wardrobe

Simplify your wardrobe and take the guesswork out of getting dressed.

 

HOW TO TAKE THE GUESSWORK OUT OF GETTING DRESSED

Words: T. MacInnis

As we all try to shop more mindfully, consume less, and wear what we already own, the concept of a capsule wardrobe can be a great way forward. It can save you time, stop you from buying things you don’t need, and make your wardrobe more sustainable.

But what is a capsule wardrobe, and how can you make it work for you and your life? Read on to learn more about what you need to build your own capsule wardrobe, and how it’ll make getting dressed easier.

What is a capsule wardrobe?

A capsule wardrobe is just a selection of clothes that you can mix and match to create outfits for every occasion. Everything is versatile, which will help you build more outfits with less pieces.

You might be familiar with the concept of a capsule wardrobe, since it’s been a hot topic for a few years now. But, it actually originated in the ’70s at a boutique right here in London, and then took off when womenswear designer Donna Karan created a capsule collection that included just seven essential pieces.

The revival of the concept of a capsule wardrobe makes sense, as we all contend with busier lives and smaller budgets. It also fits with a more sustainable approach to shopping, because building a capsule wardrobe will help you choose less trend-driven items you know you’ll wear.

What pieces do I need for a capsule wardrobe?

Once you’ve taken stock of what you have, it’s time to figure out what else you might need. A great place to start is by identifying a colour palette, or choosing one if it’s not already clear. Neutrals with one or two brighter colours that complement each other is usually the way to go.

This is flexible, of course, but you should have:

  • three T-shirts, ideally one black, one white, and one colour
  • three jumpers, one cotton and two knits
  • a knitted roll neck
  • a polo shirt
  • two casual button-down shirts, one white and one blue
  • two pairs of jeans, one black and one blue
  • a pair of joggers you can dress up and down
  • a pair of chinos in a neutral colour
  • a pair of shorts in a neutral colour
  • two suits, one navy and one grey
  • a blazer in a neutral colour
  • two formal shirts, one white and one blue
  • four coats, one lightweight, one for cold weather, one waterproof, and one overcoat
  • five pairs of shoes, including trainers, brogues, loafers, boots and sandals
  • two bags, one messenger and one tote
  • accessories, including two ties, a belt, a pair of sunglasses, and any other extras for added personality
  • essential basics, like socks, underwear, undershirts, and swimwear

This will leave you with roughly 30 pieces you can mix and match, depending on the weather, where you’re headed, and what you feel like wearing. As you build those outfits, take some photos of what works together so you don’t forget, and get creative with your pairings. That’s how you’ll fool people into thinking you’ve got way more than you do.

How do I build a capsule wardrobe?

First up, you’ll want to take stock of what you have, find out what you can get rid of, and see what might be missing. If anything doesn’t fit, you haven’t worn it in at least a year, or if you have duplicates of it, sell or donate. Then, divide what’s left into categories: bottoms, tops, jumpers, shirts, outerwear, tailoring and accessories.

Then, build ten outfits with what you have based on your personal style and your usual routine. You might want four everyday outfits, three work outfits, one holiday outfit, one smart-casual outfit, and one formal outfit. Of course, some of these will overlap, which is ideal, actually.

This is when you might find you’re missing some of the essentials we mentioned above. Gather those up as you need them, and again, when you’re choosing them, make sure they fit in to your existing wardrobe.

Can I work trend-driven pieces into my capsule wardrobe?

We all fall in love with new, trendy pieces that drop every season. Of course, if you love something and it suits you and your personal style, go for it. But, as you’re considering adding it to your capsule wardrobe, make sure it can be worked into at least four of your existing outfits, or that it at least can create a new one that’s versatile. Beware over overly-trendy prints or colours, though, because you’ll likely grow tired of them, and they might be hard to pair with what you’ve already got.

Whatever you choose, try not to overthink it, and remember: building a capsule wardrobe is about making your life simpler, and making less of an impact.

Posted March 22nd, 2023 in Expertise.

Ultimate guide to prom suits for men and prom planning tips

 

Here’s how to make prom a night to remember.

MOSS’ PROM GUIDE

From choosing your prom outfit to making an entrance, here’s how to make prom a night to remember. We’re going to help you prep for your prom like a pro and impress your friends when you hit the red carpet. Learn how to pick out the right prom suit for men in the perfect cut and how to ace your shoes and accessories; our men’s prom outfits guide is a one-stop-shop to looking sharp from head to toe.

And because it’s not all about your threads, we’ve included hair styling tips to polish your appearance and prom car ideas so you arrive in style. We even share how to stage the perfect ‘promposal’ (and what to do if it all goes pear-shaped).

CONTENTS

  1. Suit, tux or blazer?
  2. Skinny, slim or tailored?
  3. Two-piece or three-piece
  4. The colour
  5. The shirt
  6. The accessories
  7. The shoes
  8. Buy or rent?
  9. How to tie a bow tie
  10. How to tie a Windsor knot
  11. The hair
  12. Inviting a date
  13. Transport
  14. The afterparty

PROM SUIT, TUX OR BLAZER?

Unless your prom has a strict dress code, you should be able to choose between a suit, a tuxedo or a blazer and trousers. Here’s what you should be looking at:

 

 

PROM SUITS

A prom suit is ideal if you want a smart and modern look on the big night. Choose either a 2- or 3-piece suit (a waistcoat being the third piece), and what colour and cut you want: either skinny, slim or tailored. You can go for colour, texture or even a classic black prom suit, depending on your taste.

This slim fit navy black check suit by Moss will help you stand out from everyone else; it has a fresh appeal with its subtle pattern and close-fitting design. A pocket square adds a great finishing touch – perhaps in the same colour as your date’s outfit?

And when prom is nothing but a great memory, this suit can be dusted down and worn again for a big interview or your next special occasion.

TUXEDO

Defined by sleek satin lapels, a wing-collar shirt and bow tie, the tuxedo – as seen above – channels old-school style. Like a suit, tailored, slim and skinny fit variations of the tux mean that men of all sizes and tastes can pull it off, while a pair of black patent shoes, silver cufflinks and a smart dress watch often get paired with this to complete the polished look.

The Moss slim fit black tuxedo would look great at prom. Its sharp cut creates a modern, streamlined silhouette, while the satin lapel adds vintage-style charm.

 

BLAZER

The blazer (basically a suit-style jacket) can instantly transform a shirt and smart jeans combo into a prom outfit. Typically available in a bolder range of colours than a standard suit jacket, they also tend to be cut more casually.

For example, you could pair this taupe shawl lapel jacket with a crisp white shirt, colourful bow tie and sharp black jeans. This way you’re keeping to the dress code but putting your own spin on it.

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SLIM OR TAILORED PROM SUITS FOR MEN?

For a suit to look good and feel comfortable, you have to match it to your body type. So, which would you fit best: slim or tailored?

 

SLIM FIT

Defined by a tailored, narrow fit around the shoulder, chest, waist and sleeve, the slim fit look is finished off with tapered trouser legs to create a sharp, modern silhouette. It’s a look that works well for men with a slight, slim or medium build.

 

TAILORED FIT

The tailored fit is a great way to accentuate your frame, while still leaving room to breathe. Defined by a jacket that’s tapered at the waist and has classic lapels, the trousers are tapered for a polished look. Ideal for guys with a slim, regular or large build, it’s a style that has wide appeal.

If you’re still not quite sure about your size and ideal cut, why not try our Custom Made service? Not only can you select your fit, colour and lining, but you can also have your owne the suit truly unique. personalised message embroidered on the inside to mak

Just drop in to see us and one of our suit experts will get you measured and have you fixed up and looking razor-sharp.

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SHOULD I GO FOR A TWO-PIECE OR THREE-PIECE SUIT?

Both two- or three-piece suits give you a distinct look. Here’s our take on each to help you choose.

THREE IS THE MAGIC NUMBER?

A three-piece suit is just like a normal two-piece but has a waistcoat. More formal than a two-piece but less so than a dinner suit, it takes a classic, refined look to the next level.

If you’re looking to channel a touch of old-school charm, or want to echo UFC lightweight champion Conor McGregor who’s known for his three-piece repertoire, perhaps three is the magic number.

DOUBLE TROUBLE

Alternatively, the freedom of a two-piece suit may be more your thing. By ditching the waistcoat it’s easier to go loud with coloured or patterned shirts and ties.

If you’re looking for some inspiration, guys like footballing icon David Beckham and actor Michael Fassbender always pull off two-pieces like pros.

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WHAT COLOUR PROM SUIT SHOULD I CHOOSE?

BLUE, BLACK, GREY….OR SOMETHING UNIQUE?

Do you go for classic black, blue or grey, or switch things up with a daring colour scheme? Let’s explore your options.

BACK TO BLACK

Class and sophistication; that’s what you get with a black prom suit. Whether you opt for the timeless black tuxedo a-la Bond or a tailored fit three-piece, it’s a sure-fire winner in the style stakes and can blend perfectly into any prom.

FADE TO GREY

Grey suits can be a suave choice for prom when carefully accessorised. Transform the look of a smart three-piece grey suit with a shot of colour on your shirt, tie or pocket square. Or take a page out of the blazer playbook and go bold with a grey check jacket paired with some navy chinos for a casual finish.

 

INTO THE BLUE

A blue blazer or dinner jacket gives your prom outfit a sense of classic style. This slim fit navy dress suit from our Moss collection combines classic style with a sharp cut. It’s a look that says you mean business.

THE BRAVE AND THE BOLD

You’ll be the talk of prom if you opt for a bold, untraditional colour for your suit, as shown below. Tie your outfit together with a tie and or pocket square that complement the suit’s colouring or, if you decide you want to make an entrance, dial it up with a bright printed shirt.

Colour doesn’t always have to be loud. This beautifully tailored aqua tweed suit from Moss has bags of vintage charm, thanks to its unconventional shade and classic fabric – a perfect blend of traditional and modern.

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FORMAL OR CASUAL?

CHOOSE THE RIGHT SHIRT FOR PROM

As part of your prom gear, you need a shirt. Match the fit to your suit: skinny, slim or tailored. And you have to get the style right.

FORMAL SHIRT

A formal shirt is a safe bet. Just like your normal shirt, but smarter; it’ll look great paired with your prom suit or blazer. A smooth white shirt in finest cotton and a sharp fit will add a refined edge to your look.

Or why not give your plain suit or blazer a burst of bold with a patterned formal shirt? With its delicate floral pattern, this shirt is a great balance between formal and casual and features a cutaway collar and single cuffs to let the pattern do the talking.

CASUAL SHIRT

After something more causal? This linen shirt will look awesome with a smart suit jacket or blazer. Keep things on the smart side by buttoning it right to the top.

Crisp white is always a good option for prom. Smart double cuffs always give a semi-formal vibe, while an extra slim fit is perfect to keep your look streamlined when paired with a standout suit or jacket.

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HOW TO ACCESSORISE A PROM OUTFIT (MEN’S GUIDE)

You’re probably going to want a tie or bow tie, but you can also accessorise your prom suit with things like a pocket square or cufflinks.

TIES AND BOW TIES

A tux needs a bow tie. For colour, you can’t go wrong with classic black. This pre-tied version is easily slipped on and off. Not feeling black? Get a pop of colour with this bold blush bow tie instead.

For two- and three-piece prom suits, pick out a regular tie in a colour that complements your suit or date’s outfit. This sage floral tie made with Liberty fabric from Moss has a light, summery feel to it. Keep it in place with this slick tie bar.

CUFFLINKS

Provided you haven’t gone mad with colours or patterns in your outfit, cufflinks are a prom essential if you really want to make the effort. Some silver mother of pearl cufflinks add a bit of designer flair to your outfit.

POCKET SQUARES

Putting a brightly patterned pocket square in the chest pocket of your jacket can give your outfit a boost. Whether you go red, white or blue, or say it with a bold print, it’s a simple but effective upgrade.

SOCKS

Don’t undo all your hard work by flashing a tatty pair of socks when you stride into prom. A pair of bold socks make a great contrast to your suit. Pick a colour that matches your tie and pocket square to give your ensemble balance.

BELTS

A worn-out belt is really going to show you up. You’ll probably want to match your shoe colour, which might mean a stylish black or brown leather belt will do the trick.

BRACES

Not essential, but worn with a tux or retro-ish suit, braces are a great detail that show you’ve made a real effort – something your date will appreciate.

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HOW TO CHOOSE THE

PERFECT PAIR OF PROM SHOES

Prom shoes say a lot about a man, so pick a pair that makes the right statement. If you’ve decided on a tux or a dress suit, you should probably go with a shiny pair of black patent dress shoes.

 

If you’re going less formal, then you have a ton of colour and style options. These leather loafers are stylish and distinctive, and they’ll pair up well with darker coloured suits. Choose the brown option if you’re going for something lighter.

Only if they go with your look can you get away with trainers. Perfect for a suit without the tie, or even to dress down a full tuxedo, they’ll add a bit of comfort to your outfit.

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SHOULD I BUY OR RENT A SUIT?

It’s up to you, and you can do either at Moss. If you visit us in-store to look for your perfect three-piece suit or stylish prom suit, our guys will give you impeccable service either way. To make up your mind:

BUYING YOUR PROM SUIT

Buying a prom suit may not be as expensive as you think. Not only will you have something in your wardrobe sorted for your next event or big interview, but you can get more mileage out of it by wearing it other ways too – like with a T-shirt and trainers, or just the trousers with a sweatshirt or knit. You’ve also got the option to have it tailored for a custom fit at an additional cost.

HIRING A PROM SUIT

Hiring a quality prom suit from Moss can set you back between £40 to £142, so you’ll it could work out cheaper than buying. It also gives you the chance to road test a new look with no commitment, or to wear an outfit you wouldn’t necessarily invest in.

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WINDSOR KNOT OR BOW TIE?

MASTER THE ART OF TYING A TIE

On the night, you’re going to have to do your tie or bow tie. The first one, you might have had some practice from school. The second one? We show you how:

HOW TO TIE A BOW TIE

The key to mastering the bow tie is to not get it too tight so that it stays perfectly put and doesn’t bunch your collar up. Of course, you could opt for a pre-tied version if you want to save on hassle.

HOW TO TIE A WINDSOR KNOT

Suitable for regular to skinny ties, tying a Windsor knot (the most common tie knot) is a skill you can pull out of the bag for an interview or a business meeting as well as your prom. So it’s worth knowing how to do it yourself.

 

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PROM HAIR IDEAS FOR MEN

Turn some attention to your locks. You could just go with your regular style, but there’s no better time to upgrade to a slick new look that’s befitting of your new threads.

SHORT FADE

Keep it short and sweet with a contemporary fade, like the model above left.

SIDE PARTED

Above right, a deep side part looks polished and held in place with pomade or some gel.

NATURAL SWEEP

Above left, this low-key take on the side parting is easy enough to get right.

TEXTURED CROP

Go rough and rugged with this textured take on the usual barber’s short-back-and-sides, shown above right.

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HOW TO PROM-POSE IN STYLE

Time to get a date. If you’re already going out with someone, you’re sorted. But, if you’re single and have had your eye on a special someone, then pop the question. Here are a few ideas:

SAY IT WITH FOOD

Take your date-to-be to their favourite restaurant and get the waiter to slip your note onto the table with the food. Or, order takeaway pizza and have them write your message on the inside of the box.

MIX IT UP

If you’re brave enough, wow your potential date with your musical prowess, and put together a playlist of their favourite tunes called ‘Will you go to the prom with me?’.

SET THE STAGE

Get your favourite local band or DJ to do a shout-out at a gig. It might involve a bit of planning and begging, but then everyone loves a risk-taker.

And, if your proposal goes pear-shaped and you’re given the cold shoulder, fear not. Be gracious, take it like a man and go to the prom with your mates. You’ll still have a great time and you never know who else will catch your eye.

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HOW TO TRAVEL TO AND FROM PROM IN STYLE

If there’s a night you don’t need to get a lift from your parents, it’s prom night. Whether you’re with your mates or a hot date, you need to arrive in style.

JUMP ON THE PARTY BUS

Travelling in a large group? A decked-out ‘party bus’ or limo could be the answer. Enjoy music, laughs and some great pics to post as you head out to prom.

VINTAGE COOL

Impress your date by shunning the clichéd limousine and hire a horse and carriage. Some might say you’re a little old-fashioned, others will think you’re just a modern romantic.

A SLICE OF AMERICANA

Make like a movie star and go for a massive Hummer. Everyone will notice when you arrive, and they’ll probably be taking so many shots of your ride it’ll feel like the red-carpet treatment.

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HOW TO ORGANISE A PROM AFTER-PARTY

The best parties are often the after-parties, so why not organise your own? While party planning isn’t easy, the end results can be worth it if you get it right. Here are a few tips to kick you off:

  • Organise your party with a group so the tasks are shared out – one team, one dream.
  • Have a brainstorm and pick a good theme, whether it’s casino or 90s rave.
  • Set your budget and put the feelers out for numbers.
  • Get DJs, sort the venue and book door staff if you think you might need them.
  • Send out your invites and sort tickets if you don’t want a load of gate crashers.
  • Buy food and drink.
  • Party the night away!
  • The morning after, enjoy a well-earned break with a lazy pizza and movie day.

Got some ideas now? Take a look through our huge collection of prom suits for men to get your outfit sorted, or browse more of The Inside Pocket for more style tips.

Posted March 20th, 2023 in Prom.

These are the best-dressed cities in the UK

Here’s where the most-fashionable men in the UK live.

 

HERE’S WHERE THE MOST-FASHIONABLE MEN IN THE UK LIVE

Words: L. Thorpe

We did a deep dive into search trends, social media and store data to discover where the most fashionable men in the UK live.

Based on the number of monthly searches for fashion-related terms by area, social media posts by location, and internal store data, we’ve crunched the numbers to find out where in the UK men are most into their fashion.

Top 5 most fashionable cities in the UK

There’s no north/south divide when it comes to fashion in the UK. The areas that searched for fashion online, talked about it on social and spent the most money on average in Moss were:

1. Manchester
2. Norwich
3. Southampton
4. Tunbridge Wells
5. Milton Keynes

Known for its casual fashion and ’90s grunge looks, Manchester is top of the charts when it comes to men’s fashion. With a ton of fashion retailers and stylish celebrities calling the city home, it’s no wonder that it’s up there.

Manchester also made it to the top of the charts when it came to the areas who spent the most in Moss, with the highest revenue per 100,000 people in Moss Manchester.

When it comes to the location where men searched for fashion the most, Cambridge ranks in first place with almost 700 searches per 100,000 people. It’s no surprise that for total engagements on fashion in a local area, London, Cambridge and Manchester came out on top.

The areas that talk about fashion the most (and in the most positive way) on social media are Birmingham, followed by Brighton, Liverpool, Nottingham and London.

How fashionable are the rest of the UK’s men?

Wondering how the rest of the UK fared when it comes to men’s fashion? Here are the rest of the locations in the UK that made the list of the 20 most fashionable cities for menswear:

6. Newcastle upon Tyne
7. Cambridge
8. Peterborough
9. Birmingham
10. Nottingham
11. Sheffield
12. Eastbourne
13. Cardiff
14. Liverpool
15. Leeds
16. Coventry
17. Leicester
18. London
19. Bradford
20. Brighton

This just goes to show that there are fashionable men all over the country, picking up everything from men’s suits to casualwear and smart work outfits.

Looking to update your wardrobe? Wherever you’re based and whatever your style, you’ll find your favourite menswear at Moss in our new spring collection.

Posted March 17th, 2023 in Style.

What is smart casual anyway?

Decoding a sometimes-confusing dress code.

GET TO KNOW THE DRESS CODE

HERE’S WHAT THIS POTENTIALLY CONFUSING DRESS CODE LOOKS LIKE
• WORDS: T.MACINNIS

You’ve just received an invite to an event. Maybe it’s a garden BBQ, maybe it’s a city wedding, or maybe it’s a dinner party. But you’re stumped, because the dress code says smart casual. Here at Moss, we call it smasual, and if you don’t know what’s expected of you when it comes to that dress code, we can help.

Initially, when the term “smart casual” was coined, it was meant to capture a slightly less casual suiting look relative to what you might wear at an office job. Now, it’s a bit more flexible and open to interpretation… which can kind of make it more confusing.

The good news is, as long as you look put together, you can’t really mess this one up. Keep reading to see some examples of typical smart casual looks, and remember, don’t be afraid to get creative with this dress code.

Two men in smart casual suits.

WHAT DOES SMART CASUAL MEAN?

Again, this is open to interpretation. But typically, it’s a look that lands between a pair of jeans and a T-shirt, and a full-on suit and tie look. You can mix elements of those two outfits, or you can add or takeaway things to make it smart casual.

If that sounds confusing, fair enough. Smart casual is one of those terms that isn’t as easy to nail down as formal or black tie or even business casual. While that might seem annoying, look at it as an opportunity to do you own thing with it.

For example, choose a suit that’s patterned, and pair with with a crisp white T-shirt and a pair of desert boots. Or, layer a knitted jumper underneath a navy suit. You can also take your suit apart, wearing the blazer with a pair of chinos or jeans, or the trousers with a bomber jacket or zip-neck polo.

The one rule we’d recommend sticking to, regardless, is to avoid a tie or a classic white Oxford shirt. Both of those might make your smart casual look veer into stuffy territory. As we said above, as long as you look put together and your outfit reflects your personal style, you’ll be in smart casual territory.

A smart casual suit and a knitted polo.

WHERE CAN I WEAR A SMART CASUAL LOOK?

These days, as dress codes soften and the requirement to wear a suit in spaces like the office and to weddings is less prevalent, smart casual looks will work in loads of environments. Especially if you work in a more creative environment, chances are, you’re probably already wearing smart casual outfits on a pretty regular basis.

As weddings become smaller and more casual, too, you might find a smart casual dress code on those invites. Here, we’d recommend erring on the side of slightly more formal, opting for a suit or a blazer and trouser combo, a patterned shirt, and loafers. This is good to remember particularly if the wedding venue seems more elevated or you know the couple favours a little style.

Otherwise, smart casual is great for a first date if it’s at a cocktail bar or a restaurant, an office party, a dinner party, an engagement party, or really any evening event. Of course, that changes if you know the dress code is formal or black tie. It’s all about paying attention to the details and the amount of information you’ve been given about the event.

A smart casual look and brown leather loafers.

WHAT DO I WEAR WITH A SMART CASUAL OUTFIT?

This is the fun bit. If you have a favourite pair of trainers, a T-shirt you love or a go-to polo, you can work any of these elements into your smart casual look. Just make sure that whatever you choose, there isn’t too much happening in your overall look.

What we mean here is that, to keep your look a bit more understated, don’t pair patterned pants with a patterned shirt. And if you’ve chosen a brightly coloured suit, avoid equally bright trainers. Let one element of your outfit be the focal point, and let all the other parts play off it.

For example, go for a suit that pulls a particular colour out of your patterned shirt. Or, choose a pair of trainers in a solid colour to let your bold suit do the talking. And, be careful not to over accessorise. If you’re going to wear a pocket square, leave the tie at home.

As with any fashion “rule” we always encourage you to be creative and let your personality shine through, and that’s especially important when you’re building a smart casual look. As long as you feel good about your outfit, you’re happy with the fit, and you’re comfortable, we bet your look is bang on form.

Posted March 16th, 2023 in Expertise.

The UK’s most horse racing obsessed cities

Here are the UK cities where you’ll find the most interest in horse racing.

 

HERE’S WHERE THE MOST HORSE RACING-OBSESSED PEOPLE IN THE UK ARE

Words: L. Thorpe

Horse racing is big news in the UK, with hundreds of races taking place throughout the country all spring and summer, and millions spent on outfits, bets and entertainment. But which areas of the UK are the most obsessed with racing, betting and race day fashion?

Menswear experts Moss have crunched the numbers to find out where the most horse race-obsessed people in the UK hang out.

Where in the UK is most into horse racing?

It’s no surprise that Liverpool – famous for the Grand National held in Aintree every year – is first out of the gates, taking the top spot for the number of searches for race day topics. As many as 70,000 people attend the Grand National every year, and it’s a huge deal on the Liverpool social calendar.

Here’s the full ranking of the cities with the most searches for race-related topics:

1. Liverpool
2. Leeds
3. Edinburgh
4. Glasgow
5. Bristol
6. Cardiff
7. Sheffield
8. Manchester
9. Birmingham
10. Coventry

Which race are people most excited for?

When it comes to which race events people are getting the most excited about, based on search, the Cheltenham Festival takes first place. It’s no surprise that the Cheltenham Festival generates more bets, as well – £500 million in total vs. £300 million for the second-most searched race in the UK: The Grand National.

Royal Ascot, one of the most formal race events of the year is in third place, followed by the Welsh Grand National, York Ebor and Guinness Festival.

Race day fashion

It’s not just the races that these cities are into either. Manchester, Birmingham, Sheffield, Cardiff, Liverpool, Leeds and Coventry also made it into the top 20 UK cities with the best-dressed men, showing that these cities are just as dedicated to fashion as they are to the races.

In the run up to race day, there are thousands of searches for race day outfits and trends, so they’re serious events when it comes to style, too. There are more than 3.8 million searches of Royal Ascot outfits and more than 6.4 million searches for what to wear to Royal Ascot, along with 28,000 #RaceDayFashion hashtags on Instagram.

And men’s fashion is an even bigger deal, with more than 176 million searches for “men’s race day fashion” and 29.6 million searches for “men’s suits for horse races”. As some of the best-known races have some strict dress codes, it makes sense that men are seeking out style inspiration online.

Just before the Grand National, there was a spike in searches for two-piece and three-piece suits, along with linen suits, according to Google Trends data.

Need some style inspiration for your next race event?

Style it out with a three-piece suit in a classic colour like black, navy or grey.

Or go bold in a two-piece in aqua, camel or brown linen.

Posted March 13th, 2023 in Occasions, Races.

What you need to know about suit hire

A few helpful pointers for your suit hire appointment.

 

YOUR SUIT HIRE QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Words: A. Fozzard

 

Your suit hire appointment is your chance to spend some time with our stylists, getting your outfit just right.

As well as knowing just how a suit should fit, we also know what works for different personalities and occasions. We’ll suggest options that’ll make you feel on form for the big event. It’s also your opportunity to get advice on the details, like how to tie your cravat), as well as ask questions about the rest of the hire process.

BROWSE HIRE COLLECTION

 

WHEN SHOULD I HIRE MY LOOK?

We say no later than 60 days before you need to pick it up, but the sooner the better. Although we have lots of stock, getting in there early means there’s more chance we’ll have the exact suit and fit you want. It also leaves time for any changes you might want to make further down the line. And why not get them sorted early? It gives you one less thing to think about.

HOW LONG DOES HIRING AN OUTFIT TAKE?

You should allow around an hour for your suit hire appointment. It can be relatively quick to find your outfit and get measured up, but having more time means you can try on different outfits, weigh up your options and ask as many questions as you like. What you wear is a big decision, so it’s worth taking some time over it.

WHO GOES TO MY SUIT HIRE APPOINTMENT?

If your suit is for your wedding, you should bring the key decision-makers with you. That’s likely to be you and your other half, or you may have free rein and want to bring your best man or woman to help you decide.

You don’t need to bring all your groomsmen as they can get fitted at a later date. We’ll give you ID numbers for each person, which means they can go to any Moss store and try on a suit in the correct fit. Don’t worry – only the groom (or bride) can make decisions on the outfit, so they won’t be able to change anything without your consent.

If your suit is for prom or a black-tie event, bring whoever you like – or just come along on your own. Though if you’re not paying for the hire yourself, you may want to bring the person who is along too.

WHAT INFO SHOULD I BRING?

There are three key things we’ll need to know before we can give you the best advice on your suit.

      1. Date – we need to know when you need your suits for.
      2. Venue – if it’s outside, in a barn or in a particularly posh venue, our experts will make sure you look the part.
      3. Colour scheme – if you want to match with your bridesmaids or your date for an event, we can help you decide on the best accessories. A swatch or photo of their outfit(s) will be helpful.

 

ANYTHING ELSE I SHOULD KNOW?

Our best tip? Come with an open mind. You might not have considered wearing tails, a burgundy suit or tweed, but put one on and you could be very surprised by how it makes you feel. We see it all the time – a groom puts on tails and he suddenly feels like he is getting married very soon. And it’s the same with a tux for black tie. A great outfit is a powerful thing.

 

BOOK YOUR HIRE APPOINTMENT

Posted March 12th, 2023 in Hire-Occasions, Hire-Weddings, Occasions.

These are the most popular honeymoon destinations

The UK’s most popular honeymoon destinations, revealed.

 

THESE ARE THE MOST POPULAR HONEYMOON DESTINATIONS

Words: L. Thorpe

With wedding season just around the corner, men’s fashion retailer Moss has revealed the UK’s most popular honeymoon destinations.

Using a combination of monthly Google searches along with social media data, we’ve analysed the locations that people are shortlisting for their post-wedding break in 2023.

Where are the most popular honeymoon destinations?

Based on popularity, Bali, New York and the Maldives are the most popular destinations. When it comes to average monthly searches, New York takes the top spot.

Here’s what you need to know about honeymooning in the top three:

1. Bali

With stunning beaches, beautiful scenery, sunshine and culture, it’s no surprise that Bali has taken the top spot when it comes to destinations. It’s a location that has everything, whether you want to get active, explore or just chill out and enjoy the location. The hashtag #balihoneymoon has been used almost 90,000 on Instagram, as people show off their snaps from their post-wedding travel. It’s a long journey, at around 18 to 19 hours from the UK, but it’s oh-so-worth-it.

2. New York

The iconic Big Apple is a must-see for travellers around the world, so it makes sense that honeymooners would head to the city that never sleeps, too. With plenty of sights to see, activities to get involved in, and romantic locations from TV and film, it’s a great post-wedding destination. Plus there’s some seriously fancy accommodation in the city. The flight’s around seven to eight hours from the UK, making it the shortest journey in the top three.

3. Maldives

Made up of tons of tiny islands, the Maldives are picture-perfect and full of hideaways and gorgeous resorts for honeymooners. When it comes to private beaches, sea life and iconic overwater villas, you really can’t get much better than this cluster of islands in the Indian Ocean. It can take 10 to 13 hours to get to from the UK, plus the time it takes to get to your island destination.

When it comes to the destinations that receive the most love on social media, Saint Lucia and the Seychelles rank the highest with 100% of reactions about these islands being positive. Hawaii comes in close as the third most-loved destination, with 95% of reactions being completely positive.

Where else are honeymooners looking to go?

The UK’s honeymooners are setting their sights on some of the most amazing destinations around the world, covering every single continent. Here are the other destinations in the top list of the most popular honeymoon destinations this year:

4. Iceland
5. Australia
6. Thailand
7. Saint Lucia
8. Morocco
9. Mexico
10. Seychelles
11. Kenya
12. Sri Lanka
13. Vietnam
14. Amalfi Coast
15. Cyprus
16. Greek Islands
17. Cape Town
18. British Columbia
19. Dolomites

While many of these destinations are a move away from Asia and the iconic Big Apple, they’re all popular travel destinations, whether it’s for a honeymoon, a destination wedding, or just a trip away.

Wherever you get married, Moss can help grooms to look their best on their big day with a huge selection of men’s suits, custom fits and matching kids outfits for the big day.

Posted March 9th, 2023 in Occasions.

How to wear a waistcoat

There’s more than one way to wear a waistcoat.

THERE’S MORE THAN ONE WAY TO WEAR A WAISTCOAT

• WORDS: A. FOZZARD

If there’s one item that sets you apart as a man who dresses well, it’s a waistcoat. Wear it right, and you’ll look sharp for work, charming at weddings and comfortably smart at the weekend. More than just an accessory, waistcoats are designed to define your torso and create a smooth finish where your shirt meets your trousers. They’re also more versatile than you might think and look at home as a part of many different outfits. Here’s how to get maximum mileage out of your waistcoat.

  WHAT IS A WAISTCOAT?

You probably already know exactly what a waistcoat is, but just in case you don’t here’s the lowdown. It’s a sleeveless jacket-style top that’s worn on the upper body, it usually buttons up at the front and sometimes has an adjustable strap at the back for the perfect fit. Think Gareth Southgate’s famous World Cup waistcoat style, men’s 3-piece suits and the stereotypical English country gent style.

Most people think of waistcoats for more formal events like parties, formal dinners, and work events. It lets you layer up, experiment with different fabrics and finishes and can help to pull together your formal attire. You can even make your waistcoat into a statement piece that boosts a simpler suit. Originally waistcoats were created as formal wear to be worn under a coat.

However, waistcoats aren’t just for formal events, they’re much more popular for daily wear than ever before. Wearing a more casual waistcoat for drinks, dates and dinner is a great way to hit the spot between dressed up and dressed down. Not sure about the weather? A waistcoat means you can layer up and still look stylish without too much effort, especially if you choose linen and wool blends or a cotton waistcoat.

HOW SHOULD A WAISTCOAT FIT?

First of all, as with all tailoring, getting the fit of your waistcoat right is essential to looking well-turned-out. It should sit close to your body but not feel restrictive so you can move without it gaping. The straps should fit flat on your shoulders without lifting up when you move your arms around. Follow these few rules, and you’ll find one that suits your frame perfectly. Most waistcoats have a strap at the back that you can adjust to help it fit better, but avoid relying on this too much because you don’t want the material to rumple.

 

What types of waistcoats can you get?

Waistcoats don’t just come in one style, you can get them in different fabrics, fits and shapes. So wherever you’re headed, you’ll find your match.

TWEED WAISTCOAT

A men’s tweed waistcoat is the ultimate country gent style, but it doesn’t have to be stuffy. It’s exactly what it sounds like, a traditional-looking waistcoat made from tweed fabric like herringbone or Donegal tweed. You can either go all-in on tweed and match it to your suit for a retro look, or you can contrast your waistcoat with your suit for a more modern take on a classic style. The choice is completely up to you!

Try a lighter, modern tweed blend to lift your look so that it feels easier to wear whilst still looking at the part. It’ll still be an extra layer for your outfit and one that can make a huge difference to a plainer suit style. Tweed is a great way to give a nod to heritage fabrics and styles but with a more up-to-date take on the look.

 

SINGLE-BREASTED WAISTCOAT

Like a single-breasted suit, a single-breasted waistcoat is a style of a waistcoat that comes with a single row of 6-7 buttons with a small overlap. It’s easier to close than double-breasted styles and is usually seen as a more casual waistcoat style. This is the one to wear for more low-key events that don’t have a formal dress code.

Style your single-breasted waistcoat with jeans, chinos, suit or relaxed trousers and a shirt in a contrasting (or matching) style for a contemporary layered look. Matching your waistcoat and suit is more formal and dressed up takes on the look, but wear whatever you feel comfortable in and whatever works for the occasion.

DOUBLE-BREASTED WAISTCOAT

A double-breasted waistcoat has two rows of buttons that line up on each side. They usually have 3 or 4 buttons in each row for a more formal, dressed-up style than single-breasted waistcoats. This is a more common style to match up with a suit, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t have a little fun with it or that you can’t make it into a more casual waistcoat.

Wear your double-breasted waistcoat with a suit or shirt that contrasts to lift your formal style. If you want to dress it down with a more casual outfit, don’t let the double-breasted style stop you – it can look just as good with jeans, chinos or a more casual style. Keep your waistcoat buttoned up to show off its style, shape and structure of it as you layer.

HORSESHOE WAISTCOAT

A horseshoe waistcoat is a waistcoat with a low-cut neckline design that was traditionally worn as an evening style with a dinner suit. The neckline was made in this low-cut style to show off the bib of a formal, traditional shirt. It’s also known as a ‘bow’ or ‘U-shape’ waistcoat, but horseshoe is its more common name, and it comes in various fabrics and finishes.

This style of the waistcoat has become more popular in recent years and has moved away from being solely evening or formal wear. It means you can show off your shirt and tie and works well for a wedding style, especially for fashion-conscious, modern weddings. Make your tie into more of a feature with a tie bar or clip and a formal shirt.

OTHER TYPES OF WAISTCOATS

There are a few other styles of waistcoats that are variations on the main styles of waistcoats that are out there. A waistcoat with a lapel features a lapel at the neckline of the waistcoat. It can come in different lapel styles like notch, peak and shawl. Some waistcoats even feature a contrasting lapel made from a different material or colour for those who want a more adventurous style.

Another option is a cloth-backed waistcoat, which is a waistcoat that has the same material on the back of the waistcoat and the front. Traditionally, you wouldn’t see the back of a waistcoat as it’d be covered with a suit which is why more formal styles have a back made from lining for a smoother fit under a suit.

How to style your waistcoat

Let’s start out with some styling tips and move to some more in-depth ways to wear your waistcoat.

1. Waistcoats have a lining on the back that will be on full show when you take off the jacket.

Feel free to be bold with the colour and pattern, but make sure your shirt choice doesn’t clash.

2. Always leave the bottom button undone. It’s the done thing.

3. If you choose a skinny or slim fit, it will have slimmer shoulder straps that can create the illusion of bigger muscles – just a heads-up.

TAKE A TWO-PIECE TO A THREE-PIECE

Let’s start with the classic matching option. It’s the look to go for if you want to get ahead at work or have a dressed-up occasion like the races or a wedding. Select the waistcoat that’s made for the suit, and you won’t have to worry about whether or not it looks right.

 

Contrast your tie and shirt combination to bring your outfit to life and feel free to show a bit of personality with the pattern and colour in your accessories. Or, show your easy-going side by ditching the tie and going for an open neck, as long as it won’t look out of place on the day.

CONTRAST YOUR PATTERNS

Basically a three-piece with a bit more personality, this option combines contrasting patterns in your waistcoat and suit. Think a plain waistcoat under a checked suit, or a tweed waistcoat with a contrasting plain-weave suit.

It’s a bit more adventurous, but you’ll look smart and still stand out at meetings and upscale dos. Wear a contrasting colour in your tie to add to the layered effect, or keep it simple with a coordinating one.

RETHINK THE TWO-PIECE

Rather than going traditional and wearing a jacket-and-trouser two-piece, replace your jacket with a waistcoat to keep cool on warm days without losing any sense of style. Some waistcoats come with a pocket on the chest so you can add a square and dress it up if you want to.

PARE IT BACK

Dressing a waistcoat down works well too, and will see you from brunch to the bar. Wear it over a casual shirt with a pair of jeans or chinos to polish up your weekend apparel. This look works best with a textured waistcoat, like herringbone or tweed.

Either wear your shirt open-necked or add a knitted tie to smarten up a bit. Just be sure to tuck your shirt into your jeans to keep your silhouette streamlined.

 

A FEW TIPS FOR WEARING YOUR WAISTCOAT

Some final thoughts:

Waistcoats have a lining on the back that will be on full show when you take off the jacket.

Feel free to be bold with the colour and pattern, but make sure your shirt choice doesn’t clash.

Always leave the bottom button undone. It’s the done thing.

If you choose a skinny or slim fit, it will have slimmer shoulder straps that can create the illusion of bigger muscles – just a heads-up.

Posted March 7th, 2023 in Style.