Archive for December, 2023

A refresher: outfits for the office

In case you forgot what works for work.

OUTFIT IDEAS FOR HEADING BACK TO WORK

Words: C. Saramowicz

Another new year is upon us, which means it’s time to think about what you’ll be wearing at work. Whether you’re heading back for one day a week, full time or starting something new after a period off, you’re going to have to ease yourself out of joggers following the festive period and into something a little more work-appropriate. Below are a few suggestions dependant on your industry.

Moss - ecru chunky cable roll neck jumper

Informal

If you work in a casual environment, you have the freedom to experiment a bit. You don’t have jump straight into jeans and t-shirt territory, though – try a thick chunky roll neck perfect for the chilly new year period, crafted from super-soft lambswool with added stretch for comfort. It’ll keep you cosy and level up your jumper game.

As for your lower half, the trousers from your blonde camel suit are a great alternative to chinos. Cut to a tailored fit, they add a shot of smart to the relaxed look. Finish with a wool baseball cap in a tonal chestnut colour and you’ve got a casual outfit that still looks put together.

Moss - tailored fit light grey flannel jacket

Smart Casual

The smart casual aesthetic is one that many still find tricky to navigate. With just a few key pieces in your wardrobe, however, you’ll have a versatile range of work gear ready to be smartened up or dressed down when the occasion calls for it.

Flannel trousers and a beautifully soft cashmere crew neck work seamlessly together for a tonal, casual base. Throw a suit jacket into the mix and you’ve instantly elevated the outfit, especially if you go for a double-breasted jacket like our grey flannel. A suit jacket looks great with casual separates, works for a wealth of work environments and can be removed to soften the look.

Corporate

If your work dress code is a bit on the smarter side, investing in a quality suit that will stand the test of time (and look great in the process) is integral.

Our performance suits are designed for hard wear and longevity. Engineered with extra stretch for ease of movement, they’ve also been treated to repel water and stains, keeping you smarter for longer. Pair yours with a simple but sharp stretch shirt and a knitted tie for added texture.

SHOP BESTSELLING SUITS

Posted December 29th, 2023 in Style.

Grooms’ wedding suit looks for now

Because traditional isn’t for everyone.

GROOMS’ WEDDING SUIT LOOKS FOR NOW

Words: C. Stewart

So, it’s time to start thinking about what to wear on your big day. For a long time, men getting married have felt confined to the classics like morning suits or tuxedos. But with everything that’s happened over the last few years, the new rule is: anything goes.

Whatever you wear, it should make you feel on top of the world and ready to celebrate your wedding. Here are some wedding outfit ideas for men that feel completely right for right now.

GO TO WEDDING SHOP

Moss - tailored fit boucle check tweed jacket

TWEED SUITS

Tweed’s been one of our most popular suits fabrics for a while now, and nowhere more so than for weddings. But even though it’s a fabric with heritage roots, there are crucial differences between your grandad’s tweeds and the ones on offer now, like contemporary cuts, softer shoulders and modern muted shades. Reworking the classics is going to be big this year, and tweed is an easy way to do this with your groom outfit – and, of course, it looks great too.

Nod to tradition by wearing yours as a three-piece with a vintage-inspired waistcoat or go more minimal with your styling to take the look firmly into today. Checks are predicted to be a wedding trend in wedding décor this year so we suggest being the shining example of the trend by weaving checks into your wedding suit style.

SHOP THE TREND

Moss - tailored double breasted sage flannel jacket

LOUNGE SUITS

No, not for lounging around at home (we’ve done enough of that recently) – a ‘lounge suit’ is the catch-all term for any suit that’s not traditional morning wear. Go for a neat fit with soft shoulders for a modern profile that’ll form a solid base to any look. Like pattern or colour, or like mixing your suit jacket with different trousers, styling it up with all the trimmings or dressing it down with a t-shirt.

Lounge suits are a great choice for anyone who wants to look sharp but doesn’t feel comfortable in a more formal suit. They also work really well for a more casual, laid-back wedding or a destination wedding. They tend to stand up to long-distance travel a little better too, though as long as you take care of your suit on your flight you should be fine to travel with any style.

And if you’re after something completely unique to you, how about a custom-made lounge suit, personalised down to the last detail for you? With Custom Made, we’ll even embroider your wedding date or your partner’s initials on the inside your jacket to make it a one-of-a-kind memento. Custom details like this will make your special day feel even more so.

SHOP THE TREND

LIGHT SUITS

Traditionally, the less formal your wedding the lighter your suit could be, but with tradition out the window now you’ll probably be more led by weather than anything else. For big (or small) days in sunny weather, a fabric that’s lighter in both colour and weight will feel more carefree than black, blue or grey. Think linen in a neutral hue. The reality is that it’s your wedding day and you can wear whatever style or colour of wedding suit that you want.

And on cold days, a stone or beige wool suit is a relaxed alternative to darker tweeds. Either way, you’ll find modern neutral hues will set off all sorts of styling, like romantic florals or textured tonal accessories. You can dress it down (or up) as much as you like if you’re going for a more relaxed, casual wedding.

SHOP THE TREND

Moss - tailored fit claret flannel jacket

STATEMENT SUITS

If the last couple of years have taught us anything it’s that what you wear has a real effect on how you feel. For grooms that means grabbing the chance to dress up and feel great when it matters most – and there’s little better to put you in an occasion mood than a statement wedding suit.

Try bold checks, a double-breasted style or a bright colour. Up for more? Switch up your styling with a refined knit or a great pair of boots. We’re celebrating in style these days, so extend that all the way to your wedding outfit.

SHOP THE TREND

CHOOSING A WEDDING SUIT

There are loads of options when it comes to choosing your groom’s outfit. Hiring a wedding suit has always been a more sustainable option for your wedding outfit – if you don’t wear suits very often then it might not make sense to invest in a one-off. Hiring a suit gives you a memorable look without the commitment (save that for your partner!). On the flip side, if you want to treat yourself to a suit then your wedding day is about the best excuse you’ll have to do it.

Style-wise, it’s all up to you whether you choose a wedding outfit that complements the rest of your wedding day or you go for something that makes you stand out as a couple. Sometimes it’s a great, creative touch when everything isn’t too matched together, especially if you’re going for a more relaxed or eclectic day.

You’ll also want to make sure that your wedding suit complements what your partner is wearing. You’ve already shown that you’re the perfect match for one another, so you want your wedding photos to reflect that too. Those pictures last a really long time!

GET THE RIGHT FIT

When you’re selecting a suit – whether you buy or hire – fit is really important. Too tight and you could feel restricted or self-conscious through the day. And a too-big suit can make you feel just as bad, especially when you look back at photos. Have a look at our handy guide on how to measure yourself for a suit to help you get it right.

Give yourself enough time to find your just-right wedding suit too. You might need alterations or to order your ideal size in, so make sure you slot in some time for extra bits like this. And, if you’re hiring, think about booking your appointment now. It’s always worth giving yourself the time to try on some different styles, colours and fits – you might just surprise yourself when it turns out your perfect suit is completely different to what you usually wear!

Posted December 29th, 2023 in Wedding.

How to plan a wedding: a no-fuss wedding planning checklist

Everything you need to do in the order you need to do it.

Words: N. Dickson and L. Thorpe

Engaged? Congratulations! Now it’s time for the planning to begin. Whether you have months (or years) to plan your wedding or you’re pulling it together in a month, there’s one essential that’ll help you get through this stage: the wedding planning checklist.

There can be lots of moving parts to keep track of during the wedding planning process, such as people, deposits and dates. However long you’ve got to plan your wedding, here’s our wedding planning checklist with everything you’ll need to do in the order you’ll need to do it.

How you plan your wedding and what you decide to include is completely up to you, but there are some things that need to be in place before you organise the rest of the day. It can feel overwhelming, but we promise that once you get some of the big things crossed off the list then the other things will start to fall into place.

HAVE A BUDGET IN MIND

It might feel like the least romantic part of wedding planning, but this step is very important as it’ll determine the rest of the planning process. You need to work out how much you want to spend, what’s a priority to you both and what you’re happy to allocate less budget to.

Make sure your budget is manageable and realistic (do some research on venues and suppliers in your area if you need some ideas) and try to stick to it. There will probably be some adjustments as you go but try to avoid a big overspend as it can feel stressful.

THINK ABOUT YOUR GUEST LIST

Before you start to think about venues, think about how many guests you’ll be inviting (to both the day and evening parts of the wedding). Consider the size of your family and social circle, how close you are to your work colleagues, your budget and the type of place you want to get married in. The guest list goes a long way to determining the type of venue you’re looking at, especially when you take your budget into account.

This is also a good time to start thinking about your wedding party and to ask them to be a part of your big day. You can involve them in your wedding planning and get their advice along the way.

CHOOSE A VENUE

Next, it’s time to start looking at venues – once you’ve got yours booked, everything else can follow. This is where an idea of your guest numbers, budget and the type of wedding you want will all come into it. Think about the location and places to stay nearby if you have guests who will be travelling to your wedding. Check out the wedding packages and facilities too. Are you going to have more than one venue? How will guests get between the two?

Many wedding venues get booked up well in advance, and most (if not all) will need a deposit to secure your booking. This is where it also helps to have some dates, or at least some times of year in mind. Don’t feel like you need to make a decision then and there at the venue. If you need some time to think or want to compare it with another location, don’t feel pressured to sign up straight away – especially if you have some flexibility in dates.

If your wedding venue offers catering, great. If not, that’s another task to add to your wedding planning checklist. The same goes for wedding décor and things like hiring a dance floor or chairs if you need to. Make sure you’re clear on this so nothing gets missed.

DECIDE ON YOUR WEDDING THEME OR STYLE

Your personal style, venue and budget all play a part when you’re deciding on a theme, wedding colour or style. It’s important to speak to your partner about this and decide together, so that you’re both happy with the theme of the day. Some themes might look out of place in certain venues, so take that into account too. This is the time to start looking at Pinterest and wedding websites (if you haven’t already done so) to get some inspiration and share ideas.

MAKE THE BIGGEST BOOKINGS

You need to get on making your big-ticket bookings as these tend to get snapped up well in advance. One big thing to remember if you’re not getting married in church is to ensure that a registrar is available on your chosen date, especially at busy times of years or areas where there’s likely to be a lot of weddings happening.

Think about the people, services and essentials that get booked up in advance like florists, photographers, DJs and caterers. It can be really competitive. All of them will need deposits to secure the date (so this step can usually only happen once you’ve got your venue and date sorted) so be prepared to shell out on those bookings. Make sure you ask the right questions of your suppliers and do your research ahead of time – your suppliers will have a huge impact on the running of your day. Set reminders in your phone of when payments are due, especially when they’re so far in advance.

SEND YOUR SAVE THE DATES

Most people send out their save the dates once they book their venue so people know when the big day’s happening and can confirm that they’re free. If you’re planning on sending printed invitations later, you could start thinking about what you want them to look like and how you’re going to create them now, in case you need to give a supplier a decent lead-time to do them for you.

ORGANISE YOUR HONEYMOON

If you’re planning on going on honeymoon after you’re married, it’s best to plan this alongside the wedding. There are no rules that say you have to go straight after you get married so if you want to give it some time then that’s completely up to you. You might find it more fun to plan it after the whirlwind of wedding planning is over.

PLAN YOUR WEDDING OUTFITS EARLY

This might sound like it’s way in advance, but take the time to plan and co-ordinate your wedding suit, wedding dress or whatever wedding outfit you plan to wear. You’ll want this to fit your personal style, taste and venue so give yourself plenty of time. Don’t be afraid to try on different styles and types of outfits too.

And don’t forget to think about the wider wedding party either. Your bridal party and groomsmen will need outfits to wear too. It’s also fun to start thinking about your wedding rings – you definitely don’t want to turn up without one on the day!

THINK ABOUT INVITATIONS

If you’re sending out formal wedding invitations, here’s when you do it. More people are choosing to do this with digital wedding websites or online invitations, but traditional postal invitations are still very popular too.

This is also a good time to start looking at if (and how) you’re going to give guests some options for wedding gifts. A wedding website is a great way to communicate ceremony and venue details as well as a link to your gift registry. And now’s the time to do it so it’s ready for your guests when their invites arrive.

WHO SHOULD PLAN THE STAG PARTY?

Your stag party, hen party or however else you’re celebrating your upcoming wedding can usually be left with the trusted members of the wedding party, so as long as you let them know your availability you should be good to go.

DON’T LEAVE YOUR GROOM’S SPEECH TO THE LAST MINUTE

Give yourself enough time to write your wedding speech – we’ve got some tips on writing a speech fit for a modern groom below. And if you’re thinking of creating your own vows, then this is a good time to do it too.

SORT OUT THE DETAILS

As your wedding day gets closer, there are more tasks to tick off your wedding checklist like paying your suppliers, creating a seating plan and picking up wedding décor. You’ll also want to start planning when you’re going to pick up your wedding outfits. There will be some last-minute bits and pieces that come up, but don’t stress out – delegate to your wedding party if you need help.

It’s here – the night before your big day. Enjoy a celebratory drink with your wedding party but make sure you get some rest so you’re on form to enjoy your wedding day!

Moss - navy textured velvet tuxedo jacket

You did it – you married your best person! You’ve got a few last bits and pieces to sort out, but we suggest getting your wedding party to take care of the more practical ones, like returning your suits or clearing out the venue, so you can get on with enjoying the morning-after glow (or possible hangover).

Posted December 28th, 2023 in Hire-Weddings, Style.

The Men’s Style Report

All the resources Moss has to help you make the most of your big day.

Moss - slim fit sage herringbone donegal suit

THE MEN’S STYLE REPORT

Exploring the intersection of style and confidence in a modern man’s world, we reached out to 2,000 men across the UK for their perspectives on fashion, colour and dressing for different occasions.

Do men feel comfortable dressing for different events?

When it comes to the art of occasion-appropriate dressing, we asked how confident men feel slipping into black tie, business formal, business casual, cocktail and casual every day.

Only 19% said they felt perfectly comfortable choosing what to wear in various settings. Around 44% feel somewhat comfortable dressing up for events, against 20% who feel less so. 12% admit they aren’t comfortable in the slightest, revealing a big variance in how men feel about event dress codes.

Millennial men are the most comfortable with occasion-specific dressing. Those aged 25-34 said they know exactly what to wear for different events (28%), while over 55s aren’t as certain.

Londoners were at the top of the fashion stakes. They had the best idea of what to wear when, with 29% of men in London admitting that dressing for events is well within their comfort zone. Those in Wales are a bit more hesitant in deciding what to wear (18%).

How confident are men at dressing for events?

With a more relaxed approach to dressing than ever before – thanks to working from home and easing dress codes – we asked what clothes made men feel most confident while socialising, working, and dating.

Social occasions

More than half (52%) feel their best in a suit for a social occasion, such as a wedding or a party. This was the case across every category, with men ages 25-34 placing the most minor emphasis on a suit. Men over 60 were more likely to agree that they felt comfortable in suits for a special occasion. This shows a difference in dress codes through the generations, with a more relaxed approach to dressing for Millennial and Gen Z men.

There was a little more variety when comparing regions. Those of you in Northern Ireland were the most likely to want to wear a suit to a special occasion, followed by men in Scotland and the East Midlands.

Professional settings

The office is one of the places where the changes to dressing are most visible. How do men really feel about the more relaxed dress codes seen in professional settings?

More than half (52%) still prefer to wear a suit at work. Casual clothing trailed behind at just 32%. There are some differences when it comes to age too – 69% of 18- to 24-year-olds would prefer to wear a suit for work, with 49% of 45-to-54-year-old men agreeing. This could be down to how confident different age groups feel about being taken seriously in the workplace.

Londoners are most confident when dressed smart in a work setting, with 63% saying a suit gets them into work mode. Men in the South West agreed that wearing a suit for work was a lower priority, with just under half (47%) noting that it makes them feel more confident.

On a date

When it comes to feeling self-assured on a date, the tables seem to turn. A massive 79% of men surveyed said they feel more confident in casual clothes on a date, against just 7% who said they’d prefer a suit.

Interestingly, men between 25-24 are most likely to wear a suit for a date, with 18% saying it’s the ideal way to feel your best when meeting someone new. However, casual dressing is in for older gentlemen, with 85% of 55-64-year-olds saying low-key is the way to go when trying to make a good impression.

Again, London-based men are most likely to attend a date wearing a suit, though this was still pretty low at 12%. Men in Northern Ireland were the frontrunners when feeling the most confident in a casual outfit at 85%. The East of England (82%) and Yorkshire and Humber (83%) both feel confident in casualwear on a date too.

For men needing help deciding when or where to wear a suit, the Moss Suit Fit Guide is the perfect place to get comfortable dressing up for every event.

The colours men feel most comfortable in

Colour theory and trends have always been big news in men’s fashion, but not all colours are created equal when it comes to their confidence-boosting abilities.

Blue and black come out on top. Both tie for top place, being hailed by 30% of men as the ultimate confidence catalyst. Classic grey followed at 10%, while brown, green and red were at the bottom of the pile.

Interestingly, colour doesn’t factor for everyone, with 24% of men admitting that colour doesn’t really play a part in whether they feel more or less confident. This could mean that they’re more driven by trends, what’s in their wardrobe or comfort above all else.

Black has men divided. For men under 55, it’s the top choice for building confidence, but the least popular among 65s and older.

Regionally, black clothing is most popular in the North East, London and the East Midlands, while blue is most favourable in Northern Ireland and Wales.

The facial hair that men feel most comfortable in

According to data from YouGov, more than half of men in the UK now have facial hair of some kind.

Contrary to this, our survey revealed it’s actually being clean-shaven that makes men feel the most confident. More than half (53%) say a clean shave boosts their confidence, suggesting men are choosing beards and moustaches for practical reasons rather than style.

As always, age plays a big part. Men over 45 are most likely to enjoy a clean shave, while younger counterparts aged 18-34 say a beard makes them feel more self-assured. Stubble is one of the preferred choices for men aged 25-54.

Across the country, men in Wales say they feel most confident with a clean shave (60%), closely followed by men in the South West (59%) and men in Scotland (58%). Men in Yorkshire and the Humber (22%), along with the West Midlands (22%), feel a beard provides a confidence-boost.

What does this mean for men’s fashion?

The lines of what to wear and when are more blurred than they have been previously, which can lead to confusion about what to wear and where to wear it. There are plenty of differences when it comes to your age and where you live too, which adds something extra to think about.

It’s clear that men care about what they wear, but they’re not always certain if they’re making the right choice – this is clear across the board, from younger men who are building their wardrobe to older men who might feel like they’re not as up to date with what to wear as they once were.

There’s also a move towards more relaxed styles for special events, which some men aren’t yet feeling as comfortable with, but it’s worth remembering that dressing up and elevating your style choice is always in fashion. If you’re in need of some inspiration, check out our article on how to dress for every occasion, so you always feel confident and ready for whatever you’ve got going on.

Posted December 27th, 2023 in Back-Pocket.

The wedding and engagement guide

All the resources Moss has to help you make the most of your big day.

WE HAVE EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO START PLANNING YOUR BIG DAY

Words: T. MacInnis

Did you know more than 100,000 people in the UK get engaged the weekend before Christmas? If that’s you, congratulations! And, if you’re ready to get started on planning your big day (no pressure), Moss has loads of resource that’ll help make the process easier. Read on to get started.

Moss - DKNY slim fit claret wedding suit

Our all-access wedding guide

Our standard emails always have great wedding advice, from us and the experts in our network. If you’re looking for even more however, sign up for our wedding-specific emails – just pop in your details and you’ll get planning advice, styling tips and speech-writing guidance that’ll help you tackle that to-do list.

The Inside Pocket

The Inside Pocket, Moss’ blog, has an entire section dedicated to weddings. Whether you’re a groom, bride or guest, you’ll find useful info on the latest wedding trends, how to style your wedding party, what to wear based on your venue, and what to pack for your honeymoon. Check back regularly—we publish content multiple times per week.

Moss - tailored double breasted Italian Barberis flannel suit

Custom Made

If there’s ever a time to get yourself a bespoke suit, it’s for your wedding. At Moss we make that process simple, approachable and best of all, affordable with our Custom Made service. Choose your favourite fit and fabric from some of the world’s best mills, then customise the details to make your suit unique to you. Then, head into store to get measured by one of our experts so the final product will be one of the best-fitting suits you’ve ever owned. It’ll be ready in just 28 days, but we recommend coming in a month or two out from your wedding date to try it on, just to be safe.

Hire

If you’re not a big suit person, or you simply want to make a more sustainable choice, our Hire service is a great option. From tweed suits to lounge suits to black tie, we have dozens of options to suit whatever your wedding calls for. Find that perfect suit, wear it to your wedding, then return it. This is a great option for your wedding party if you don’t want to ask them to buy new suits for your big day. Book an in-store appointment to get started.

One-to-one styling appointments

Even if you aren’t coming in for our Custom Made or Hire services, you’re still more than welcome to book a one-to-one styling appointment at one of our stores. Our experts can help you choose an off-the-rack suit, make fabric and fit suggestions, help you pick the right accessories, and even help you choose holiday looks for your honeymoon.

At Moss, we love helping you celebrate those big moments and your wedding is undoubtedly one of the biggest. So, when you’re ready, we’re ready.

Posted December 27th, 2023 in Occasions, Wedding.

Wedding Trends for 2024

FIVE WEDDING TRENDS FOR 2024

As predicted by The Un-Wedding

Words: M. Woods

If you’ve found yourself here, you’re probably already thinking about your wedding day and what it’s going to look like.

Well, look no further because here are my top 5 predicted wedding trends for 2024, based on everything we’ve seen from the industry’s most unique suppliers at The Un-Wedding Show in 2023, and from speaking to our attendees – the next wave of modern couples who are planning their wedding, their way.

From playful floral displays and clever use of colour to eco-friendly decor and a touch of vintage, these trends can be adapted and personalised to make your day stand out from every other wedding, making it one for you and your guests to remember.

Get ahead of the trends and plan your perfect day with my top five 2024 wedding predictions:

Floral arrangements at the Un-Wedding Show

Photo: Natalia Case Photography

Monochromatic colour palettes

We’ve seen strong examples of this in all categories of wedding styling this year at The Un-Wedding Show, and it looks like this trend is here to stay.

Choosing your wedding colour palette doesn’t have to be difficult. Think about your favourite colour or one that suits you the most, then introduce different tones of the same hue throughout your wedding styling. This can be applied to your outfits, accessories, flowers, the cake, and any decor you choose. Set the tone by sending out your wedding invites in your chosen colour, and everything else can follow suit. Keeping your colour scheme monochromatic is impactful and creates a sense of continuity throughout the day, making everything feel well thought out.

The best thing about this trend is that you don’t . It’s all about what suits you, and that’s what weddings should be about.

Photo: The Un-Wedding Show

Playful floral displays

Say goodbye to traditional floral arrangements and centrepieces, and a big hello to fun and unique flower displays and installations aimed at wowing your guests. As we head into 2024, people are opting for a more creative approach to their wedding floral designs. Again, this trend is all about incorporating your personality into your wedding day. Forget buttonholes and bouquets; think flower clouds, meadows, and hanging floral wreaths instead. This trend pairs perfectly with modern, blank canvas wedding venues that are crying out for impactful styling ideas. Modern wedding florists are always up for the challenge of bringing your vision to life and can make informative suggestions based on your budget, as well as the types of flowers that are in season.

Photo: The Un-Wedding Show

Decor hardcore

We’re in an exciting era whereby more people are opting for alternative spaces to celebrate their nuptials, and 2024 weddings will continue this trend (warehouse wedding anyone?). The best thing about opting for a less traditional, blank canvas wedding venue is the opportunity to go all out with your decor. These days, there are some very cost-effective ways to style even the biggest event spaces by hiring out showstopping decorations. Hiring also has a more positive impact on the environment, meaning you can party guilt free.

Consider full-ceiling glitter canopies or streamer installations in the colours of your choice – these can be easily adapted to dress any space and greatly add to the party atmosphere.

Photo: Natalia Case Photography

The vintage comeback

A bit of a contradiction in terms because let’s face it, vintage never really went away. The glory of vintage is its immortality, especially when it comes to style and weddings. 2024 will see weddings get back in touch with our vintage ancestors in more ways than just the fashion side of things.

Wedding suppliers at The Un-Wedding Show have shown us unique ways to bring vintage technology back into the modern world with a contemporary twist. Think Super 8 wedding videography – it’s grainy, romantic, looking like it’s already stood the test of time (meaning it won’t date). Or how about some 35mm film photography to add extra dimension to your wedding photography package, that cannot be captured in the same way with digital? We think vintage technology will continue to be a big hit next year.

One of our personal favourites has to be the charming audio guest book. It allows your guests to pick up a vintage telephone and speak into the receiver to record their heartfelt message, instead of scrawling it drunkenly into a traditional guest book.

Photo: Bruno Cervera @ Pexels

Wedding content creation

At the opposite end of the spectrum, we have something completely new in 2024 – wedding content creation. Yes, it’s a thing, and we can see it being huge in 2024.

Why?

Because until now, your wedding day content hasn’t been geared up for social media. You won’t get your official photos and film for a good few months after the wedding and, even then, you probably won’t want to share most of it.

Most of the guests are too busy enjoying the wedding to stop and post on their socials. Also, a lot of couples opt for unplugged weddings these days, requesting that their guests don’t post anything until after the day. So why not hire someone to create quality content for your wedding day in short, social media friendly formats like Reels, TikToks and Stories? This way, you can post them at your leisure without stressing about the creation side of things.

Wedding trends 2024: conclusion

2024 weddings are going to be all about injecting your personality into every aspect of your wedding. It doesn’t matter if it hasn’t been done before; in fact, that’s a good thing! The only way we can continue to make weddings truly unique is to take trends and put your own spin on them. Use your wedding day to celebrate ‘you’ and don’t worry about outdated opinions telling you what you should and shouldn’t do. That’s how you’ll truly have a day to remember.

The Un-Wedding is the UK’s coolest wedding planning platform and wedding fair for modern couples. Find the most unique independent wedding suppliers in their Book Of Love directory and shop cool gifts for the whole squad in their online store.

Posted December 26th, 2023 in Wedding.

What to wear: New Year’s Eve edition

Wondering what to pack and how to pack it? These are the men’s bags you need for your next trip.

Moss - tailored fit navy texture tuxedo jacket

NYE LOOKS TO MAKE YOU SHINE

Words: C. Saramowicz

After spending Christmas in comfort-friendly clothing to accommodate long, lazy days and delicious food, New Year’s Eve is the perfect opportunity to up the ante and go all out. The key with outfitting is to have a bit of fun, wherever you’re headed; after all, New Year’s Eve is a time for celebrating the past year and welcoming in the new one.

No matter the event, we’ve got you covered for whatever comes your way.

SHOP MEN’S PARTY SHIRTS

Parties are often the most casual way to spend New Year’s, but that doesn’t mean you should slacken your efforts. Invest in a solid party shirt that will see you through many an event and help you stand out from the crowd; our burgundy tie dye shirt is crafted from a fluid fabric that drapes gently across the body and feels great on the skin too. Designed in Italy, the tie dye print is a tonal sunset of reds and brown that pairs well with anything from tailored bottoms to smart drawstring trousers. They’re a great smart casual addition to the outfit, softening the aesthetic. Add a pair of chunky suede loafers and you’ve got a party-ready look to ring the new year in.

If you’re spending New Year’s watching the fireworks, you’ll need to bundle up (especially if you’re in the UK). That doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice your get-up, though – throw on a double-breasted suit in a rich, festive red tone and you’ll instantly feel put together. Crafted from medium wale cord in a slim fit, it offers a refined silhouette that’ll look great on its own or under a warm winter coat. As for your base layer, go for a mock neck jumper with the softest hand-feel so it feels great on – woven from a rich merino blend with added stretch, it’ll keep you cosy under the suit and pairs well with just the suit trousers if you decide to remove the jacket.

Black ties are always a great excuse to dress up. Though everyone loves the full tux look, the occasion doesn’t always call for it. A more casual take is swapping your usual dress shirt for a merino mock neck, instantly relaxing the outfit. Add a pair of performance trousers cut to a tailored fit for a refined yet slightly softer look, and finish with a coloured velvet jacket (our take is in a royal blue tone) to shake things up a bit. As for shoes, go classic with a pair of polished loafers and you’ll have a balanced, elegant outfit worth shouting about.

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Posted December 20th, 2023 in Style.

Lessons in outfitting a wedding party by stylist Gareth Scourfield

Our guest editor Gareth Scourfield styles three suits for the whole wedding party.

Styling ideas for everyone in the wedding party (and for those invited to party at the wedding)

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. We asked him to turn his outfitting skills to wedding suits. The result? Stylist-approved looks for three distinct big-day styles.

The location’s been booked, the invites have gone out and now it’s time to focus on what to wear for the most important day of your adult life. Grooms have a lot to consider when it comes to navigating how they and their groomsmen look on their special day.

Take your styling lead from aspects of the wedding that you and your partner are agreed on – the time of year you’re getting married, the location of the ceremony, how formal or informal you want the overall day to be and any colour themes you are fixed on. These are valuable visual aids in getting the styling nailed for the groom, his groomsmen and fellow wedding guests.

More recently there has been a break away from the traditional tailcoat or black tuxedo outfitting, which sit very much in the formal camp of dressing. Now, grooms are taking a more personalised approach with coloured suits, noticeable textures and contrasting jackets and trousers. While it’s a day you want to look and feel the very best, it’s important to let your personality shine through too. The choice of suit and how you style it will be the best way to show your true self.

Below, I look at three very different suit styles you could consider for your wedding, how you can interpret each one with various styling choices to give you a look that’s individual, works for the theme or style of wedding, and is still considerate across the wedding party from groom to guest.

Sage tweed suit

This slim-fit sage tweed suit offers a great alternative if you want to stay away from the traditional blues and greys, which can often look more business-like. While it appeals to a more countryside setting, with a different take on the styling it can work for more urban location weddings too. Play to its strengths – its heritage-style, two-tone herringbone structure can let you build a more textured and tonal outfit. It’s a very British style of tailoring, so work with it.

Important tip for any groom-to-be: when it comes to styling your wedding suit, keep to a tight colour palette. The less array of colours, the more elevated your wedding outfit will look. It allows you to introduce more texture if you need to without it becoming distracting.

For a country-themed wedding, I would suggest the groom wear the full three-piece version, with a lighter-coloured sage green shirt under and teaming it with the navy Liberty print floral tie. For his best man and father of the bride or groom, I’d go with the two-piece suit, opting for the darker green slim fit stretch shirt and keeping the theme of the Liberty print floral tie for everyone – this may help tie in with any of the floral colours of the day, or pull out the rusty reds in the print to inform the colour palette of the button holes. If the Liberty print is a step too far for some of the male members of the party, try a knitted wine or bronze silk tie with the green shirt. It will keep the colour palette tight and amplify the burgundy in the printed tie. Add a burgundy sock to help bring the look together. Keep to the warmer wintery palette and have the men in your wedding party wear dark conker-brown shoes; double monk strap for the groom and his best man, and lace-up brogues for the other male members.

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Blonde camel double-breasted suit

Lighter colour suits continue to be popular for summer weddings. This camel double breasted suit is designed with that in mind, offering versatility for the groom and his male wedding party with numerous options on how to style it. This two-piece, with its contemporary patch pockets and peak lapels, can be dressed up or down while still looking wedding-ready.

For the groom that wants an elevated look, I’d suggest a crisp white shirt worn with the neutral and navy Medallion print Bottinelli silk tie and pocket square, to keep it sharp and coordinated and with a flash of print. Finish the look with a pair of taupe melange socks and dark brown Oxford lace-ups. Keeping to the rule of a strict colour palette opens up options for the other male members of the wedding party. Navy and white works very well with this camel-coloured suit.

If the groom is wearing the white shirt and printed tie and pocket square, select a navy blue shirt for the groom’s party with the same printed pocket square for consistency, but omit the tie. These visual styling signposts photograph well in group shots with all the wedding guests.

The versatility of this suit style also allows for it to be broken up. Your groomsmen may compliment you by wearing the same DB jacket with a more relaxed but smart navy tailored chino, styled with a white shirt and a pocket square but no tie – timeless pieces that will be worn over again. As a guest for the wedding, I’d suggest styling the suit with a print camp collar shirt to show some individual flair, worn open neck with a leather loafer.

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Stone puppytooth linen suit

Achieving the goal of looking your best on your wedding day without wanting to compromise on comfort is what you want to look for in your suit. This puppytooth three-piece suit offers up a number of styling solutions that will see you looking pin-sharp while at ease in the lightness of the linen.

For the groom I’d suggest going all out with the three-piece, showing off the low-cut DB waistcoat. I’d look towards Hollywood style inspiration by referencing Robert Redford’s wardrobe in The Great Gatsby. Introduce those pastel ice cream colours from summer by teaming this suit with pale pinks, ice blues and soft mint greens for shirting and working a complimentary tie in the same colour, keeping the colour focus.

For the best man or husband-to-be, I’d suggest a classic white shirt with either a sky or gold silk tie and co-ordinating silk pocket square. Finish the look off with a smart pair of monk leather shoes. For the groomsmen, I would suggest they all wear an aqua blue shirt and each choose from a selection of silk ties (avoiding the groom and best man’s tie colours). It keeps to the summery colour theme of the party, all while showing some individualism. Have everyone coordinate their socks with their tie colour for a unified finish.

If you’re going as a guest, wear the suit as a two-piece and select a tailored fit linen shirt to wear open-necked. Then, style the jacket with a complimentary silk pocket square. This gives a more relaxed but no less smart approach, and plays to the strengths of the linen fabric. Team the suit with a suede or tasselled loafer.

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Posted December 19th, 2023 in Occasions, Style, Wedding.

Shirt style guide: the Oxford shirt

Get up to speed on this crisp but comfortable style.

Ever been confused by shirt styles, wondering ‘what is an Oxford shirt?’ Or found yourself unsure about when or where to wear one? Our shirt guide will help you get up to speed on this crisp but comfortable style everyone needs in their wardrobe.

What is an Oxford shirt?

You’ve probably seen or worn an Oxford shirt before, but you might not have realised. The name Oxford refers to a type of cloth originally made in Scotland – it’s heavier and has a rougher weave (also sometimes known as a basket weave) than other types of shirts, which means it’s sometimes more durable. Oxford cloth tends to hold its shape well and is often stiffer than other kinds of fabric, too.

An Oxford shirt can have a two-tone appearance when different colour threads are woven together, but single-colour shirts are just as popular. A white Oxford shirt is a classic look that works for all kinds of events, from laid-back days through to formal affairs. It’s a versatile and timeless look, wherever you’re headed.

Where to wear an Oxford shirt

Because an Oxford shirt is durable, simple and stylish, it works well for almost anything you’ve got on. Pair it with a smart men’s suit for more formal events like a wedding or Ascot, then scale it back for something more casual. This type of shirt also lends itself well to everyday plans like work, family gatherings, business meetings or drinks.

If you choose this style of shirt for work, be mindful of the dress code in your office. An Oxford shirt is a great option for a more relaxed office environment because it’s easy to style up and down. Wear it with chinos for a more laid-back day, or under a suit jacket for a big meeting.

Because of its heavier weave and weightier fabric, an Oxford shirt is usually a better choice for the cooler months. That’s one of the reasons we love them for winter or outdoor weddings, especially when you can’t rely on British weather. When paired with a jacket, however, a heavier weave Oxford shirt can be a little on the warm side so go for something lighter in the summer.

Getting the right fit

Need some help styling your shirt? Here are our quick tips to get the right fit for your Oxford shirt without having to overthink it.

When it comes to the cut, you’ll usually find slim, tailored and regular are the most common options available. Your shirt shouldn’t feel too tight across your chest, even if you prefer a more fitted style. Ideally the shoulder seams should sit on the spot where your chest and arm meet so it’s not stretching across your front.

Collars are usually button-down, which means the ends of your collar can be fastened to your shirt with discreet buttons to make things neat without being overly stuffy. Ideally you want to be able to fit two fingers between your neck and closed collar so it stays looking neat whether you’re buttoned up or a little bit open.

With a long-sleeved shirt style, you want to make sure the hem of your sleeve ends where your arm and hand join. If you’ve ever worn a shirt with sleeves that are slightly too short, you’ll know exactly where this should be.

How to style your Oxford shirt

How you wear your shirt is up to you, but if you want some help styling your Oxford shirt, we’ve got you. Sometimes it’s still easy to get caught out by the different interpretations of formal and business casual.

Formal and semi formal events

Heading to a formal wedding or event? The dress code will usually be pretty clear. It’s normally a white Oxford shirt and a black suit or a navy blue suit – you can even explore other neutral suit tones if you’d prefer something a little less formal. For other events, including less formal weddings where you’re a guest and not in the wedding party, you can have a bit more fun with your outfit, adding different colours and accessories like a watch or cufflinks.

For events classed as semi-formal, you can usually get rid of the tie and mix up your colour choices more. You can also move away from styling your shirt with a suit and try more casual picks like a less formal blazer or chinos.

Business casual and smart casual

If you’ve ever looked up business casual in a panic, you’ll know there really isn’t one single definition of this style. It’s very much open to interpretation, and we think that’s a good thing. As a general rule, this dress code focuses on more modern styles and casual fits. It’s not about being buttoned up, uncomfortable or overly formal.

Smart casual is less about the workplace and more about sunny days, outdoor weddings and dinner at a nice restaurant. You can tone down the formality by pairing your Oxford shirt with tailored trousers or even wearing it open with a T-shirt underneath. If you really want to move towards the more casual end of the scale, smart shorts can work well, too.

Casual

Oxford shirts are great for layering and will keep you warm in autumn and winter. Layer under a jumper with the collar peeking through and add jeans or chinos for a relaxed feel. Rolled up sleeves, opening up your shirt, or unfastening the top two buttons can also up the casual factor. You can wear your Oxford shirt untucked or half-tucked, too.

Upping the style stakes with an Oxford shirt

When it comes to shirts for men, an Oxford shirt is up there as a versatile wardrobe piece. It’s simple to style, and should fit in with the rest of your wardrobe easily. If this versatile, timeless look is for you, check out our line up of Oxford shirts.

Posted December 14th, 2023 in Expertise, Style.

Men’s leather bags (and what to pack in them)

Wondering what to pack and how to pack it? These are the men’s bags you need for your next trip.

THESE ARE THE LEATHER BAGS YOU NEED RIGHT NOW

Words: L. Thorpe

A good bag is a solid investment that will see you through journeys for many years to come. Whether you’re commuting, heading for a weekend away or going on a work trip, we’ve got you covered for all the bags you need all year round.

SHOP MEN’S BAGS

Weekend bag

A weekend bag is one that’s big enough to carry all your essentials without being bulky or heavy. As the name suggests, it’s designed for short trips, usually around two or three days (more if you’re efficient with your packing). They’re smaller and more compact than suitcases, making them easy to carry and store.

You can pick them up in pretty much every fabric, colour or style, from classic leather duffel bags to modern, lightweight nylon options that easily fit in the boot of your car or the overhead lockers on your next flight. They usually have comfy shoulder straps or handles for easy carrying.

When choosing a weekend bag, consider the length of your trip and the activities you’ll be doing. They’re designed to hold your essentials, so be organised when you pack and think about what you can wear for more than one occasion.

Washbag

A washbag, also known as a toiletry bag, is a small (usually waterproof) bag with a zip to carry, store and organise your personal grooming items. They’re usually made of durable materials like leather, canvas or nylon and they’re designed to be portable and protect the rest of your luggage from leaks or damage. It also means you can easily find what you’re looking for in your case or bag, too.

Our take is crafted from a luxurious grained black leather with an exterior handle for carrying ease. It’s a smart way to store your personal items and adds a touch of refinement to any luggage set up.

Backpack

Whether you’re heading up to see family or popping to a friend’s for a weekend, it’s time to upgrade the old backpack you’ve been carrying around for years. The ideal size for all your essentials, grained leather backpack is crafted from a sleek grained leather and is smart and minimal enough for work use too. With thick comfortable leather straps and a mesh panel in the back for breathability, it’s a travelling essential you won’t ever want to leave at home.

Work bag

Though many favour the backpack, a work bag can be anything that holds your essentials in. Whether it’s your laptop, tools, samples or something else completely, the biggest things to look out for are quality, durability and comfort.

You also want to make sure that it’s big enough for everything you need; trying to cram your essentials into a bag that just isn’t big enough is no fun. Make sure you have straps that are big enough to distribute the weight of your work bag, and if you’re heading to the office, that it’s smart enough to go with the rest of your workwear.

Our grained leather briefcase is a modern take on the more traditional hard briefcase. Perfectly sized to fit your laptop and any important documents, it still feels relatively compact and has a detachable strap so you can wear it on one shoulder should you need to.

Suit carrier

Whether you’re travelling to an event, a wedding or taking a suit into work, you need a suit carrier to keep your suit neat and free of creases when you arrive at your destination. It’s the difference between looking crumpled or looking stylish on arrival. You can use them over and over again, too. Ours is slightly elevated with it’s saffiano leather trim and embossing, with plenty of storage for your accessories too.

Gym bag

This style of bag is the right size and fit for all of your gym gear or sportswear, whether that’s joggers, a football kit or your trainers. It also means you can keep your gym kit separate from your work gear or anything else you might not want to get covered in mud or sweat.

Choose a bag with enough space, and keep your toiletries in a separate washbag to skip any leaks and stay feeling fresh.

SHOP MEN’S BAGS

Posted December 12th, 2023 in Style.