Archive for October, 2023

Winter wedding outfits: what to wear

Winter-weight fabrics and textured finishes are made for going to weddings on crisp winter days.
Moss sage flannel double breasted suit

WONDERING WHAT WINTER WEDDING OUTFIT TO WEAR?

Words: L. Holmes

Like any wedding you’re invited to, a winter wedding is a great excuse to pull out your finest. But it’s also a chance to lean into all the best bits of winter wedding outfits when it comes to menswear. Think thicker fabrics, after-dark dressing, stylish men’s boots and a really great winter coat.

Moss stone houndstooth suit

WINTER WEDDING OUTFIT IDEAS

If you’ve been invited to a UK wedding in the next few months, now is the time to make the most of wintry woollen fabrics like Donegal, tweed or herringbone. These look great as a 3-piece, or a patterned two-piece like our stone houndstooth suit. Both of these outfits are absolutely ideal when it comes to layering too – pair yours with a merino roll neck to keep you warm, so a slightly draughty church, waiting outside to throw confetti or enjoying the dance floor can all be done a little easier.

Tailoring cut from this trio of textiles is a great alternative to the usual lightweight wedding offerings, especially at this time of year. Having such a dense weave, they’re brilliant cold-wedding options as they’ll trap heat in and keep wintry chills at bay.

DO I HAVE TO WEAR A SUIT TO A WEDDING?

In short, no. Though suits are usually the go-to for most wedding guests, there are plenty of opportunities to look sophisticated without the need of a two-piece.

For weddings that are less on the formal side, or where you’re an evening guest, you can keep it more casual. Think smart trousers, a fitted roll neck jumper or a casual shirt, smart shoes and a jacket of your choice. A blazer or suit jacket, such as our white cord jacket, doesn’t need to match your trousers and you can easily take it off to change up your look.

Moss winter white cord jacket

WHAT IF THE WEDDING INVITE SAYS ‘BLACK TIE’?

If it’s been made clear you’re expected to turn up in black tie, there’s little leeway for dodging this specific dress code. But as daunting as it might sound, it’s actually a really easy rule to follow because, in a way, the decision about what to wear has already been made for you. It doesn’t have to be boring – here’s how to take on black tie without it feeling dull or you’re dressed like everyone else in the room.

That doesn’t mean you can’t do it your own way, though. Sure, you can play it safe and stick to a traditional men’s tuxedo like this slim-fit notch lapel number, but feel free to bend the rules with a tux jacket in coloured velvet over a fine-knit rollneck instead.

CAN I WEAR A COAT TO A WEDDING?

As with most weddings, there’s often a fair bit of hanging around outside waiting for the bride or groom. Worse still, you might find yourself listening to unending declarations of love while sitting inside a chilly venue.

Here’s where the welcome addition of a suitable piece of outerwear – a well-cut overcoat like this double faced epsom – will come in handy. Like we already said, layering is key when it comes to getting a winter wedding outfit right. Paired with, say, our sage flannel suit, your coat will keep you insulated from the winter weather and prove that you can look both warm and wedding-appropriate at the same time. It’s a total finishing touch to your outfit that doesn’t have to be a one off.

Moss claret flannel suit

CAN I WEAR COLOUR TO A WINTER WEDDING?

Absolutely. A winter wedding is the perfect opportunity to bring out those deep hues that work so well for the season. Plum, olive, copper and sage are just some of the colours that really shine in the winter months, our claret flannel suit a prime example. Crafted from a comfortable stretch flannel (perfect for long days at the wedding venue), it can be worn as a smart three-piece or paired back as just the jacket and trousers. With a pale pink shirt and champagne tie to finish, you’ll feel put together and look the part too.

I’M GOING TO A DESTINATION WEDDING – WHAT DO I WEAR NOW?

Lucky enough to be invited to a set of nuptials somewhere hot and exotic? No-one said a winter wedding had to be cold! A lightweight linen suit is your best bet. But just because this will probably be the most relaxed suit you’ll ever own, don’t fall into the trap of wearing a suit that’s baggy and shapeless – look for something lightly constructed in a trim fit. You can always experiment with different colours and patters for your linen if the neutral look just isn’t for you.

If the wedding you’re going to is so semi-formal it’s almost laid-back – like if they’re getting hitched on a beach – leave the tie at home and wear your suit with a crisp white shirt or one in a printed floral design. And just because the weather is going to be undoubtedly hot, that’s not an excuse to go barefoot; finish your outfit off with a pair of beach-friendly casual shoes.

SHOP WEDDING GUEST SUITS

Three-piece to tux: suit styles for hire

From classic tuxes to contemporary fits, explore all the different suit styles you can hire for your special event.
Moss - suit hire, man in a tux

DIFFERENT SUIT STYLES AVAILABLE FOR HIRE

Words: L. Thorpe

When it comes to dressing well for a special occasion, nothing makes you feel as good as wearing a well-fitted suit. Whether it’s a wedding, prom or a formal event, you’ll feel your best in a fit that works with your style and fits the dress code of wherever you’re headed.

Wondering what types of suit styles you can hire? Here’s a rundown of what’s on offer when you hire from Moss.

Moss weddings - Man in a tuxedo

Classic tuxedos

Start by browsing our suit hire collectionor make an appointment at any of our stores to choose your suit. From classic to contemporary styles, you can find the right style and fit for your next event. Explore the different cuts, colours and fabrics available, and find something that perfectly matches your personal style.

Take some time to browse through the choices and think about the event that you want to wear your suit at. Is it formal? Professional? A special celebration like a wedding or prom? Here’s some inspiration on when to hire a suit, just in case you need it.

Modern slim fit suits

For those seeking a more contemporary and streamlined look, slim-fit suits are a popular choice for hire. These suits feature a close-cut silhouette that frames  the body’s natural lines, creating a sleek profile. With narrower lapels and a trimmer cut, slim-fit suits offer a more fitted version of the classic suit. They’re also versatile enough to be worn at a variety of events, from weddings to prom and formal dinners.

Moss weddings - man in a grey three piece suit

Elegant three piece suits

A three-piece suit is an essential – you can layer it up to change your look or wear it together for a traditional feel. Made up of a jacket, waistcoat and trousers, it’s versatile and easy to update. The waistcoat adds a layer of elegance and can be worn with or without the jacket, so  you can adapt your style to different occasions.

Three-piece suits are a popular choice for weddings and formal events, but you can easily wear the trousers or jacket separately for more casual events. With our Full Package hire option, you’ll get a jacket, shirt, waistcoat and trousers, plus the accessories you need to complete your look.

Formal dinner suits

Dinner suits, also known as dinner jackets or formal suits, are an alternative to traditional tuxedos. These suits typically feature a single-breasted jacket with satin or silk lapels, often in a contrasting colour. They’re commonly worn for black-tie events and formal dinners, adding a touch of sophistication and individuality to your look. Pair them with a formal shirt, bow tie, and lacquered shoes for all-out polished style.

Moss weddings - man in a navy tuxedo

Workwear suits

For corporate events, meetings, presentations and even day-to-day in the office, you can hire a suit for work. Go for classic styles and colours – like charcoal grey, navy blue and black – or mix it up with something a little more contemporary. 

Pair with a tailored shirt, tie and leather shoes for a professional look that’ll take you from your desk to more formal places, like networking events, job interviews and external meetings. Office wear has become much more casual in the last few years, so having a whole wardrobe of suits might not make sense for you. Hiring suits for work is a great way to hit the mark when you need to for those one-off big meetings or presentations, all without breaking the bank.

 

Seen a suit style that you want to hire? Here’s how to hire a suit so you can start browsing to find your fit with Moss.

Hiring a suit for special occasions

Got a big event coming up? Here’s why hiring a suit might be for you.
Moss - suit hire

HIRE A SUIT FOR A SPECIAL OCCASION

Words: L. Thorpe

Wearing a suit can make you feel great, especially for special occasions where the photos will last long after the event’s over. While owning a suit is a valuable investment, there are some occasions where hiring a suit can be a better choice. 

Wondering when it makes sense to hire a suit rather than buy one? Here are some of the most popular special occasions to hire a suit rather than buy one.

Moss weddings - Man wearing tails

Weddings

Whether you’re the groom, a groomsman or a guest, hiring a suit can help you look and feel great, without ending up with an outfit you won’t wear again. From classic black-tie affairs to relaxed outdoor weddings, hiring a suit gives you a variety of options to match the wedding theme, all while making you feel confident and ready to enjoy the special day. If you’re the man of the moment, here’s some more info on hiring a suit for your wedding.

Prom and graduation

Prom and graduation are both milestone events in a young person’s life – it’s a time to dress up and have a night you’ll always remember. Hiring a suit for prom or graduation means you can pick the right suit for you and your personal style, without having to break the bank. Stand out from the crowd on prom night in a black tux, or choose a pink or blue flannel suit that complements your prom date’s outfit. Graduating? Be proud of your photos with a great-fitting two-piece under your gown.

Moss weddings - man wearing tails

Corporate events

For professional events, gala dinners or award ceremonies, you’ll need to step into something special. Hiring a suit will make sure you make the right impression in a business or formal setting. With hire, it’s easy to elevate your style without the commitment of a permanent wardrobe addition – great if you don’t need to wear one every day but still want to look good for work-related events.

Moss weddings - man wearing tails

Race days

Race days are a date for the fashion calendar, where you can go all out and really dress up – you’ll definitely be seen and spotted in plenty of photos. Suit hire for the races just makes sense, you get to wear something stylish and fashion-forward without the commitment or cost. What’s not to like?

Special celebrations and parties

If you’re heading to a formal party or celebration, you’ll want to wear something smart. From milestone birthdays to anniversary celebrations, wearing a suit will help you feel more comfortable and confident at a formal event (and means you end up with great photos).

Hiring a suit means that you can choose a suit that works for you for this one-off event. No more having to wear the same suit for every single occasion to make the most of it, and no more having to splash out on a brand new suit for different dress codes. For most of us, formal events such as the ones above don’t happen very often, so hiring rather than buying a suit can work out as a more sensible option.

Thinking about hiring a suit for your next special event? Here’s everything you need to know about suit hire at Moss.

Why you should be braver with black tie

Our guest editor Gareth Scourfield on how we’re all being braver with black tie.

 

It’s time to step into the spotlight

 

Words: G. Scourfield

Gareth Scourfield is contributor to GQ, Esquire and Gentleman’s Journal, stylist to high-profile clients like Ben Whishaw and Daniel Craig – and our guest editor for AW23. Here he reports on the evolution of the black tie dress code and gives his tips on how to embrace a little black-tie bravery yourself.

Getting invited to a formal event with a black tie dress code can be overwhelming. The classic black tuxedo, white shirt and bowtie combination might feel safe but can often feel a little restrictive too. However, as any recent red-carpet event or award ceremony will testify, lots of men are now being more daring and creative with their evening looks. And you can too: with a little thought and creativity, you can step up your look to embrace the spotlight this black-tie season, while still looking elegant for the occasion.

 

 

The evolution of men’s eveningwear outfits

Look over any number of recent red-carpet events and you’ll see men have been pushing the boundaries of eveningwear with unique design details and daring choices. No longer confined to the classic black suit, they are experimenting with different colours, textures, and patterns that reflect their individuality. Rich-coloured velvet blazers and midnight blue textured tuxedos offer up a bolder alternative to the traditional black tuxedo.

The design influences of 1970s evening wear, which first filtered down from the designer runway shows a few seasons ago, continue to make an impression on the traditional tuxedo suit – wider lapels, more generous proportions, fuller bow ties and louche silk shirts, often unbuttoned, have Saturday Night Fever all over them. Popular colours of the ‘70s such as dark browns and creams along with pale blue and pink ruffle-front dress shirts are also having their moment at glittering events.

This shift towards more confident dressing can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, society is becoming more accepting of diverse expressions of masculinity. Us men are no longer limited by outdated notions of what is considered ‘appropriate’ or ‘masculine’. Secondly, there is an increasing emphasis on self-expression in today’s culture. We’re realising that our wardrobe choices can be an extension of our personality. With so many more options now available, we all have the freedom to curate our own black-tie looks that truly reflect who we are.

 

 

step up to the black-tie dress code

Over the last decade, I’ve witnessed first-hand this subtle shift in black tie dressing with the celebrity clients I style for red carpet events. The expanding choices in men’s evening wear has allowed me to introduce new interpretations of the traditional black tuxedo, bringing out more of the individual’s personal style and taste. It can be very nuanced, with only subtle changes such as switching from a black patent lace-up to a velvet slipper, adding a piece of jewellery or choosing a velvet jacket or textured jacket rather than the traditional black tuxedo.

The sophistication that comes with donning a well-tailored tuxedo is unmatched. It’s not just about the garment itself, but also the confidence it instills in the wearer. Achieving that perfect fit and selecting garments with elegant proportions are key factors in creating your impeccable look, as are the tuxedo’s design details like satin lapels and pipe-seam trousers. Every element should be carefully curated to enhance the overall aesthetic – small details like making sure your bowtie is properly tied and your shoes are well-polished can be the difference between appearing polished and leaving a positive impression versus falling short on it.

Beyond the glamour, black tie dressing teaches us an important lesson – that confidence comes from within. When a man feels comfortable and stylish in his outfit, it comes through in his demeanour and interactions. It reminds us that dressing well is not just about impressing others, but also about feeling our best selves.

 

 

6 tips for the perfect black tie outfit

    1. FIT: Make sure the tuxedo and trousers are tailored to your body shape. Jackets should fit neatly across the shoulders and chest. Bulging biceps and pulled lapels are not a good look. Sleeve length should stop short to show about half an inch of shirt cuff. Trouser length should have a small break, meaning very little fabric around the hem and ankles.
    2. FOOTWEAR: Patent leather shoes, either lace-up or loafer. A velvet shoe or slipper is an elegant alternative. Your scruffy work shoes won’t cut it.
    3. SHIRTS: should always be well pressed. A dress shirt should always have a bibbed front, either narrow pleats or a textured Marcella bib front. I’d replace buttons with black or silver shirt studs, but if you find studs too fiddly, your buttons should be either mother of pearl of hidden completely with a placket front.
    4. TIES: Can’t tie your own tie? I get it, life’s too short, but it’s a life skill you can show off about. Be generous with your silk or velvet bow tie. Puff out the fabric a bit so it appears you have tied it yourself.
    5. ACCESSORIES: Resist comedy accessories. Cufflinks should be smart and classic in silver or gold with the option for mother of pearl or black onyx decoration. A colourful precious stone can elevate a white cuff. Socks should remain dark – a plain black or navy or go for a subtle texture in knitted silk or cotton.
    6. PROPORTIONS: Know your proportions. Taller men look elegant in a double-breasted jacket. Narrow shoulders? Go for a wider lapel, as it gives the illusion of broader shoulders. Stockier frames suit single-button jackets, drawing the eye downwards with a peak or shawl collar lapel. Keep trousers tailored with side adjusters on the waistband for a smoother line. Always consider the outside seam – a flat grosgrain silk panel is more obvious, a silk piped seam more discreet. The trouser hems should just be kissing the top of your shoes, with a small break or clean line. NEVER have your evening trousers puddling over your footwear. It just looks sloppy.

 

Heads up: New-in hats

On-trend hats to keep you warm and cosy this winter.

HEADGEAR TO KEEP YOU WARM AND COSY THIS SEASON

Words: C. Saramowicz

Hats are more than just an afterthought – they have the ability to pull a look together, elevate an outfit or make a solid statement. As the weather starts to cool, now is the perfect time to update your accessories collection and pick up some winter staples.

A woolly beanie may keep you cosy, but sometimes the occasion calls for something a bit different. Here are our picks of the newest autumn winter drops that will have you hanging up your favourite knitted cap for the season.

Moss Harris Tweed Herringbone Baker Boy Cap

Baker boy cap

Tweed is a staple in any winter wardrobe – the heavy-weight fabric is a suiting favourite, particularly for winter grooms. Our baker boy cap is made from authentic Harris Tweed and features a herringbone weave, adding a rustic feel to your look. It’s a classic accessory that works with a range of outfits – pair with a crisp white shirt and finish with a camel Epsom.

Moss Barberis Blue Check Suit

Flat cap

Crafted from soft Melton Wool, our classic navy flat cap will see you through the colder seasons in style. A smart alternative to a regular cap, it pairs well with suiting and weekend casualwear alike. To bring your look together, finish with a knitted tie and a peacoat in a similar deep blue shade.

Moss Tailored Claret Suit

Off-white cord cap

Often assigned to the summer months, caps get a cord update for the colder season. Crafted from soft needlecord, our off-white cap will enhance any casual outfit – and keep your head warm too. Combine with drawstring trousers and a roll neck for a sportive finish, or pair with cord suiting to relax a formal aesthetic.

SHOP ALL HATS