Archive for November, 2023

Dress code: black tie

Dress-coded event coming up? Get ready with our friends the Thomas brothers.
Moss x Thomas Brothers - black tux group shot

EMBRACE BLACK-TIE SEASON WITH THE THOMAS BROTHERS

Words: C. Saramowicz

 

Black-tie dress codes can be daunting, especially if you’re not used to donning a tux on the regular. There are so many elements to consider – what dress shirt to wear, what lapel to choose, what is a cummerbund anyway? Whatever you’re invited to, here’s how to get the black-tie dress code right with some outfit inspiration from the Thomas brothers.

Tradition says that for a black tie event, you wear a black tuxedo – that means a black blazer with satin lapels and black trousers dress trousers – and a crisp white dress shirt. Add a black silk bow tie, black waistcoat or cummerbund and some black patent leather dress shoes and you’re good to go.

However, we’re now seeing more and more men getting creative with their black tie, showing off their own personal style rather than sticking to the more traditional feel. And it isn’t just extras like cufflinks and pocket squares that are the differing pieces.

Moss x Thomas Brothers - Adam

Work do

Work parties are a great time to showcase your personality and go all out. If you’re hesitant about diving into the black-tie aesthetic, a great way to ease yourself in is by adding a relaxed piece to the mix.

Here, Adam pairs a merino mock neck with a black velvet jacket. The jumper functions as a casual version of a dress shirt, which softens the look while still looking put together. Complete with black dress trousers and a pair of high-gloss shoes for a polished finish.

Get the look

Moss x Thomas Brothers - Scott

Black-tie wedding

If the wedding invite calls for black tie, it’s time to up the ante. You don’t always have to go full tux, though – a statement jacket can do wonders styled with paired-back separates.

For a winter wedding, take Scott’s example and combine a smooth merino wool rollneck with slim fit dress trousers. They’re tailored for a refined profile that’s the perfect base for a showstopper piece, like our burgundy floral velvet jacket. We’ve crafted it from velvety cotton with extra interest in the form of a textured floral motif.

If the wedding’s going to be a more formal affair, swap the rollneck out for a marcella dress shirt and finish with an oversized bow tie.

Get the look

Moss x Thomas Brothers - Ryan

Awards ceremony

If you’re heading to a black-tie dinner or an awards party, you need to look the part. It’s one of the best opportunities you’ll have to wear a full tux with all the trimmings.

Like Ryan, start off with a pristine dress shirt complete with a pleated bib. Then, add a pair of tailored dress trousers to cut a sharp lower half.

As for the jacket, the world is your oyster – catch the light in a jewel-toned option like green or burgundy, or go for a black-on-black look that feels intentionally put-together but requires little effort.

When it comes to accessories, no black-tie getup is complete without a bow-tie – our pick is one slightly larger and more statement-making than the traditional alternative, crafted from a premium velvet that perfectly matches the blazer. Add cufflinks for a shot of glimmer at the wrist, then finish with a polished patent monk shoe and you’ll be shining bright all night.

Get the look

SHOP THE THOMAS BROTHERS EDIT

 

Posted November 5th, 2023 in Black Tie.

A stylist’s guide to gathering clues for thoughtful gifts

Our guest editor Gareth Scourfield on the art of listening and observing to give better gifts.

 

The art of listening and observing: gathering clues for thoughtful gifts

 

Words: G. Scourfield

Gareth Scourfield, our guest editor for AW23, contributes to GQ, Esquire and Gentleman’s Journal, and styles high-profile clients like Ben Whishaw and Daniel Craig. As such, he’s adept at making selections with other people’s tastes and personalities in mind. Here he gives his tips on gathering clues to help you give thoughtfully this year.

 

 

We’ve all been there – the frantic rush to find a last-minute gift for someone special, which usually results in the receiver trying to hide their disappointment at your ‘thoughtful’ gift. Now is the perfect time to flip the script and make someone special in your life feel truly understood.

Throughout my career as a menswear stylist, my focus has been on dressing others. And one crucial lesson I have learned is the power of listening and observing. Every person I’ve worked with has certain preferences when it comes to clothing. By attentively understanding their needs, what makes them comfortable and even encouraging them to step out of their comfort zones, I’ve been able to help them express themselves through their clothes choices in the best possible way. From the vibrant extrovert who embraces bold colours and textures, to the introverted guy who prefers a subtle approach with pieces that make them feel confident without drawing unnecessary attention. Some clients have a much more laid-back attitude, but still want to look and feel good, so I curate outfits that offer effortless style, while appearing they haven’t given their outfit a second thought. It’s all about finding the perfect balance between effortlessness and thoughtfulness in every outfit I put together for my clients.

So, whether it’s your partner, brother, dad, son or friends, take the time to surprise them with a gift that truly speaks to their style. Don’t be afraid to challenge those stereotypical gifts. Remember, it’s about making them feel truly valued and considered.

 

 

A more considerate approach takes a bit of sleuthing. Here are my tips to help you find the ultimate thoughtful gift this season.

 

    1. LISTEN: By attentively listening to conversations and taking note of their interests, hobbies and lifestyle, you can become a master gift giver. Understanding their unique style will guide you in giving something that complements their way of life. Is he a guy that appreciates a bit of luxury? An outdoorsy type, or maybe someone who’s looking to step up at work? Where do they prefer to eat or choose to go on holiday?
    2. LOOK: Get familiar with their style, their preferred colour choices, how they wear certain clothes. Do they usually wear crew necks over V-necks, for example? Do they favour neutral tones over brighter colours? If you notice he wears a navy rollneck or likes wearing a muted cable knit, maybe think twice about that lovely yellow cardigan you were thinking of giving him. How do they wear accessories? Purely practical and functional in muted colours? Or to add personality to his outfit? Use these visual hints to help inform your decision-making.
    3. WHAT’S THE OCCASION: Think about the occasion or purpose behind what you’re buying. Where and when do you see each other? Is it at work, down the pub, at a football match, at social events or at home? This will show you how he turns up for each occasion. If it’s work, does he wear a particular style or colour of shirt? Is there a favourite style of knit or jacket they wear out for a drink?
    4. SPOT THE GAPS: Once you’ve asserted what kind of things they like, look at what they wear frequently and identify any areas where an upgrade is needed. If he really loves a particular style or look, treat him to a nicer version than he’d buy himself. Alternatively, think about pieces they don’t own yet but would greatly enjoy wearing.
    5. BE A SIZE-DETECTIVE: If it’s possible, keep an eye out for opportunities to discreetly check their coats or jackets hanging on hooks. It may seem a tad intrusive, but remember this approach is aimed at benefiting the recipient and getting their sizing right. Not comfortable in asking for their sizes? Explore accessories that are less reliant on sizes. Luxurious wool scarves, cozy knitted beanies and stylish leather goods like wallets, bags, and wash bags are excellent options to consider.

 

GO TO GIFT SHOP

 

 

Posted November 3rd, 2023 in Expertise.

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