Archive for February, 2024

What to wear to Cheltenham Festival

HERE’S HOW TO DRESS FOR THE CHELTENHAM RACES

Words: C. Saramowicz

 

Cheltenham Festival is one of the most prestigious events in the racing calendar. Every year, the event attracts hundreds of people who gather together to enjoy twenty-eight races across the four days, alongside a wealth of additional entertainment.

Unlike Ascot, there is no official dress code for Cheltenham, though it’s still regarded as a highly fashionable event. The lack of restrictions, however, offers up the ideal opportunity to experiment with outfitting and wear what works for you. From tweed suits to linen three-pieces, see below for a few ideas on how to dress for the races.

SHOP RACE DAY SUITS

 

Moss - slim fit sage herringbone tweed suit

 

TWEED

If you want to lean into traditionally British fabrics, tweed is a great choice. Neutral tones like oatmeal and cream are always a good shout, but if you want to follow the Cheltenham trends, our sage herringbone suit fits the bill. Cut to a flattering slim fit, wear it as a two-piece or with the matching waistcoat and finish with a neutral knitted tie. You’ll complement the natural surroundings and it’ll keep you warm if there’s a breeze, too.

 

Moss - tailored fit oatmeal linen suit

LINEN

If the weather’s a little warmer, it’s time to get out the linen. Airy and breathable, it’ll keep you cool and dry all day long while the tailored fit will have you looking sharp. With a classic slubbed texture and a natural light beige shade, our oatmeal linen suit looks great paired with a coloured linen shirt to add a bit of dimension, and finished with a tonal tie. As for footwear, continue the spring aesthetic and choose a pair of lightweight Lewisham loafers (providing it’s not too muddy, of course).

 

Moss - slim fit quartz pink suit
FLANNEL

Injecting a bit of colour into your races outfit doesn’t have to be dramatic. Sometimes, a subtle shade of a vibrant colour can really uplift a look and help you stand out from the crowd, without looking too overdone. Our quartz pink flannel suit is cut to a slim fit and comes as a two-piece or three-piece, depending on your chosen style. The muted pink tone looks great with whites and greys, allowing for a wealth of possibilities when it comes to accessorising.

SHOP RACE DAY SUITS

Wedding Lookbook SS24

The moment’s here – look your best for the big day, from your suit, shirt and those all important finishing touches.
Moss - slim fit taupe matt linen double breasted suit

MOSS WEDDING LOOKBOOK SS24

Words: C. Saramowicz

 

The SS24 wedding collection comes curated in light fabrics and airy fits for the kind of comfort that frees you to be completely in the moment.

SHOP WEDDING SS24

 

Moss - slim fit taupe matt linen double breasted suit

 

Summer weddings call for lightweight linens in classic tones, designed for day-long celebrations.

 

Moss - slim fit stone donegal tweed jacket
Moss - tailored fit light grey donegal suit

 

Tweeds aren’t just for winter nuptials. Breathable wool-blends in natural tones offer a lighter take on this traditional look.

 

Moss - tailored fit light blue flannel suit

Tailored fit light blue flannel suit // Port flannel double breasted suit

A colour for every theme – powder blue lounge suits for modern beach settings, port double-breasted suits for a standout turn down the aisle-way.

 

Moss - Italian Reda slim fit denim suit


Reda Italian slim fit blue texture suit // Ferla Italian rust stripe suit

When the occasion calls for something special, Italian fabrics elevate classic profiles through excellence in colour, texture and weave.

 



Off white double breasted jacket (coming soon) // Black linen shawl lapel (coming soon)

 

Black tie or white tie, carefully constructed and accented with considered details for sophisticated summer wedding get-ups.

 

SHOP WEDDING SS24

Fabric focus: bouclé

Moss - ecru slouchy boucle crew neck jumper

 

HERE’S WHY YOU WANT BOUCLE’S ULTRA-TACTILE TEXTURE IN YOUR WARDROBE

 

It might be trending, but bouclé has long been adding rich texture to clothes. Hailing from the French word ‘boucler’ which means ‘to curl’, bouclé is made from a fleecy, looped yarn and has long been used in tailoring, knits and furniture alike.

BUT WHAT IS BOUCLÉ?

As mentioned, bouclé is all about texture. It’s spun with double-twisted yarns of different lengths and thicknesses, creating small loops that give it a nubby appearance. Despite this, bouclé has a very soft handle and has traditionally been used in knitwear for this reason –however, a more micro take gives a subtly disrupted texture to this summer’s suits and tailored jackets.

 

Moss - camel sloutchy boucle crew neck jumper

 

WHAT DOES BOUCLÉ LOOK LIKE?

There are many different types of bouclé. Some, like our slouchy crew neck, are woven into larger loops resulting in a laidback rugged-ness, while our zip neck polo shirts have a slightly finer structure while still adding a level of interest.

Other types feature two or more coloured yarns, creating an eye-catching finish that really brings out the loops and twists of the weave. This can also result in pieces that look striped or checked, a technique that was heavily popularised by fashion house Chanel.

 

Moss - tailored fit taupe white houndstooth jacket
HOW SHOULD I WEAR BOUCLÉ?

The good thing about bouclé is that it can we worn all year round. Due to its breathability and moisture-wicking abilities, it works well in the warmer months as part of lighter knits and suiting, like our taupe white houndstooth suit (a great contender for all those summer weddings you’ve got lined up). In the winter however, it’s insulating qualities will keep you warm as part of a thick knit or thicker coat.

 

Casual shirts – and how to wear them

Ease into softened tailoring and lighter fabrics.

ALL THE CASUAL SHIRTS YOU NEED THIS SEASON

Words: C. Saramowicz

 

You can’t go wrong with a good shirt. Whether it’s dinner with friends, a date night, or just your regular working week, casual shirts are always a good investment (and won’t let you down if you need a last minute outfit, either). From Cuban shirts for summer days to cotton-linen blends for extra breathability, take a look at our shirt picks for the season ahead.

 

Moss - neutral knitted cuban collar shirt

Cuban knitted shirt

Knits aren’t just for winter; our Cuban collar knitted shirt is a great alternative to a classic Cuban, offering both comfort and airiness. Cut to a tailored fit with extra stretch, it’s roomy while still providing gentle structure, and looks great on its own or under a light jacket depending on where you’re headed. Combine with a pair of off-white chinos (or shorts, depending on the weather) and top with a tonal overshirt for an easy weekend look.

 

Moss - cotton linen sky bengal stripe shirt

Cotton bengal stripe shirt

The bengal stripe – a classic pattern that’s often seen in more corporate environments, this one is a little bit more versatile. Crafted from a cotton linen blend, the softness of the cotton combined with the breathability of the linen makes for a great summer alternative to a white shirt, should you need to smarten things up. It shines in more casual environments too, however. Roll the sleeves up, pair with cotton chinos and you’re ready for whatever comes your way.

 

Moss - cotton linen camel stripe shirt

Cotton linen camel stripe shirt

Slightly thicker than the standard bengal stripe, our camel stripe shirt comes in a neutral tone which makes it easy to style and ideal for a multitude of occasions. Like the bengal stripe above, it’s made from a cotton linen blend which adds an extra level of breathability for the warmer months. Cut to a tailored fit, it can be worn a bit looser than your average bengal stripe – layer over a t-shirt or roll up the sleeves and add a pair of linen trousers for an easy, airy look.

 

Moss - ecru washed Oxford shirt

Oxford shirt

It’s hard to beat a classic Oxford shirt. If you need more of an insight into what they are, read our guide on Oxford shirts here, but in short it’s your classic every day shirt, though slightly weightier. That doesn’t mean it’s not comfortable, though – our Oxford shirts are made from 100% cotton which makes them perfect for year-round wear. Soft, breathable and in a range of beautiful colours fit for any occasion? What more could you want.

 

In detail: liner jackets

Ease into softened tailoring and lighter fabrics.
Moss - khaki liner jacket

HOW TO WEAR THIS TRANSEASONAL STAPLE

Words: C. Saramowicz

 

Lightweight and warm with endless ways to style it, the liner jacket has become a fundamental piece of any transitional wardrobe. Though the name suggests it’s part of the outerwear family, this versatile garment can be worn in more ways than one.

So what is a liner jacket, and how can you style it? Read on to find out.

 

Moss - taupe liner jacket

What is a liner jacket?

Originally worn as a thermal layer underneath military overcoats, the liner jacket is a thin, often padded jacket that helps lock in body heat without weighing you down. In recent years, it began being worn as a standalone piece and is now worn throughout the year, whatever the season.

Liner jackets are crafted from a range of fabrics – polyester, nylon and wool to name a few – and feature nods to classic military construction such as visible padding and patch pockets. They are also often collarless as a way to make them more compact and easier to wear under thicker coats.

 

Moss - khaki liner jacket

How do I style a liner jacket?

Due to its lightweight construction, liner jackets can be worn in a wealth of ways. It’s also the perfect layering piece, seeing you through the transitional periods when you’re not quite sure what to wear.

In the warmer months, throw it over a lightweight tee and you’ve got an airy jacket, adding a bit of interest and texture to a casual look. As the weather cools, swap out the t-shirt for a thicker knit like a merino roll neck or a crew neck jumper to hunker down in. Then, when winter really hits, layer under a thick coat for the perfect mid-layer – the quilted design will trap warm pockets of air and keep you extra toasty.

Half canvas vs. full canvas blazers: what’s the difference?

Not sure what separates a half-canvas construction from a full-canvas one? We can help.

 

HERE’S WHAT MAKES THE TWO JACKET CONSTRUCTIONS DIFFERENT

Words: T. MacInnis

 

With our 171 years in tailoring, we know there’s loads of jargon associated with the craft that might need explaining. And since it’s our job at Moss to make you look and feel your best, we wanted to demystify a couple of tailoring terms to make the process a bit more approachable: half-canvas vs. full-canvas construction.

When it comes to buying a blazer, you can choose between two different interlining styles, one called half canvas and one called full canvas. Each one will make your jacket sit and fit slightly differently. Read on to learn more about these two different options and find out which one might be right for you and your jacket.

What is canvas?

Canvas, or canvas interlining, is a particular kind of fabric that sits between the outside of your blazer and the visible lining on the inside. You can see where exactly it would sit in two different jackets above. Typically made with a blend of horsehair and cotton, canvas offers structure and support to the jacket. It affects the way the jacket hangs or drapes on your body, which can make it more flattering. As well, when a jacket is interlined with canvas, it’ll likely last longer and retain its shape longer.

 

What is half-canvas construction?

As we’ve touched on above, a jacket with a half-canvas construction only has that that lining from the shoulder down to the waist. With half-canvas, you’ll get a nice, structured shoulder and a slight, natural drape across the chest.

Typically, because there is less canvas and less work involved with this style of jacket, you can expect to pay a little less than a fully-canvassed jacket. It will also feel less heavy than a full-canvas and slightly less structured. Relative to a jacket without any canvas at all, it will feel more substantial and will likely fit better. Over time, it will naturally mould to your body which means it’s a great long term investment.

 

What is full-canvas construction?

As with a half-canvas jacket, will full canvas, you’re getting lots of structure through the shoulders and through the body of the jacket. But, that structure runs even further down the front, allowing for an even better fit and drape. You’ll also get a more durable jacket that will stand up to decades of wear and dry-cleaning. The only negatives with full-canvas are the added cost and production time.

At Moss, we don’t currently offer off-the-rack full-canvas jackets. But, if you are considering our Custom Made service, you can request a full-canvas lining if you’re looking for extra structure and durability. Again, it will cost a bit more and the production time will be a bit longer.

 

 

Whatever you choose, there are benefits and downsides to both half and full-canvas jackets. But, as always, if you get the fit right and you love the fabric and finishings, chances are, you’ll wear it for years to come.

SHOP SUITS

Moss’ guide to Edinburgh

 

YOUR GUIDE TO THE VIBRANT CAPITAL OF SCOTLAND

Words: L. Thorpe

 

With a rich tapestry of history, culture and style, Edinburgh is a must-visit UK destination. Though you may be inclined to think of castles, history and the surrounding landscapes when visiting the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh’s fashion and culture scene has its own tale to tell.

From haute cuisine to stylish shopping, including our flagship Edinburgh Moss store, Edinburgh has it all. Here’s our guide to everything the city has to offer and what to do in Edinburgh.

 

Lannan Bakery

WHERE TO HEAD IN EDINBURGH

Edinburgh is home to plenty of stylish boutiques, vintage shops, designer stores and fashion retailers, one of the many reasons why we chose to open up our new flagship store in the city. Moss Edinburgh is located in the heart of the city’s fashion and retail centre St James’ Quarter, where you can find all your favourite men’s suits in Edinburgh, along with Custom Made, casualwear, suit hire and styling advice.

For unique Scottish fashion, explore independent boutiques in the Grassmarket area, offering everything from traditional kilts to contemporary Scottish designs. Or, take a stroll down the Royal Mile where you’ll find some traditional Scottish fashion and jewellery.

Edinburgh also boasts a vibrant culinary scene, with Michelin-starred restaurants like Number One, Ondine and The Kitchin leading the high-end side, along with plenty of other eateries to choose from. Looking for something that’s a little lower key? The Rock Salt Cafe is perfect for breakfast, brunch and freshly roasted coffee, while Fishers has locations in Leith and in the city, serving up fantastic seafood. The Roseleaf, The Bon Vivant and the Lannan Bakery are three more relaxed food spots that serve up seasonal, locally-sourced food in the city.

Dive into Edinburgh’s bar and pub scene by visiting stylish bars like Mistral or Bramble, or make your way towards Leith for plenty of evening hang out spots. For panoramic views of the city while sipping on cocktails, venture to The Lookout by Gardener’s Cottage. There’s even hidden speakeasies dotted across the city too – look to venues like Panda & Sons and Hoot the Redeemer. If you’re interested in the world of liquor, take one of the world-famous whisky tours that are dotted around the city.

Edinburgh Castle

THINGS TO DO IN EDINBURGH

A trip to Edinburgh isn’t complete without a visit to Edinburgh Castle, an iconic symbol of the city. Explore its historic chambers and witness breathtaking views of the cityscape. For something a little different, you can always go for an underground city tour of Edinburgh to visit some of the city’s oldest, deepest vaults.

To further fill your cultural cup, visit the Scottish National Gallery for classical art, or the Fruitmarket Gallery for contemporary exhibitions. There are also art halls and venues like The Usher Hall and Queen’s Hall for concerts and performances. To explore the very best of history, art and design, head to the National Museum of Scotland where you’ll find a wealth of fascinating exhibits. As for animal lovers, Edinburgh Zoo will delight children and adults alike.

Every August, Edinburgh bursts with creative energy as thousands of artists globally descend on the city to showcase their talents. From theatre and comedy to dance and music, the Edinburgh Fringe Festival is a dynamic, open-access celebration where established and emerging artists mingle. The streets of Edinburgh become a vibrant stage for artistic expression.

If you’re visiting in December, head to the Edinburgh Christmas markets. Explore charming stalls for unique gifts and crafts, indulge in traditionally Scottish and international treats, and soak in the festive atmosphere. Whether sipping mulled wine, enjoying city views from the Ferris wheel, or basking in Christmas lights, the markets are a great way to celebrate the festive season in true Edinburgh style.

 

St James Quarter

WHEN TO VISIT EDINBURGH

The best times to visit Edinburgh depend on your preferences and the type of experience you’re looking for in the city. Here’s some info that’ll help you decide when to visit:

  • Summer (June to August): This is peak tourist season due to the milder weather and longer days. Edinburgh experiences various festivals, including the renowned Edinburgh Festival Fringe, in August. Expect larger crowds, but the outdoor events, festivals, and a lively atmosphere will make up for it.
  • Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to October): These shoulder seasons offer a good balance between decent weather and fewer crowds. You can explore the city comfortably without the peak-season hustle.
  • Winter (November to February): Winter in Edinburgh is festive, especially with the Christmas markets and decorations. While you’ll probably want to wrap up warm, it’s well worth a visit. January and February can be a bit quieter.

Whatever the weather, if you’re looking for menswear in Edinburgh, we’ve got you covered with our new Moss Edinburgh flagship store. Visit us at St James Quarter from the 6th of March.

 

Warm weather weddings: what to wear to a destination wedding

Ease into softened tailoring and lighter fabrics.
Moss - slim fit navy matt linen jacket

WHAT TO WEAR TO A WARM WEATHER WEDDING

Words: C. Saramowicz

 

As the days get longer and the sun starts gracing us with its presence, it’s time to dig out the wedding invitations and get outfit planning. Whether you’re heading abroad or celebrating closer to home, you’ll want a destination wedding suit worth showing off.

Due to the balmier temperatures, your outfit needs to be well thought out so you’re not left sweating profusely through your shirt. Your standard wool or tweed suit won’t work here – instead, lighter fabrics and softer constructions are the way to go. Take a look below to see our picks for this year’s warm weather weddings.

 

Moss - slimt fit taupe matt linen double breasted suit

Taupe matte linen suit

Linen suits should be your go-to when it comes to destination weddings. Lightweight, breathable and moisture-wicking, it’s a no brainer for an outfit you’ll be wearing most of the day. Our taupe matte linen suit is cut to a slim fit that sharpens your silhouette while still allowing room to breathe. In a classic neutral tone, it’s the perfect base for building a look based on the dress code. If there isn’t one, keep it classic by pairing with a non-iron Oxford shirt and matching taupe tie, or liven it up by layering over a patterned or denim shirt.

 

Slim fit camel flannel suit

Light camel suit

Light tones like camel and sand work really well for warmer weddings, especially if it’s an outdoor celebration. Cut to a slim fit with added stretch for ease of movement, our light camel suit will keep you comfortable well into the evening, when you can remove the double-breasted jacket and party on in your shirt (tie optional). Pair with a lightweight shoe such as our Lewisham loafer, and hold the socks for a beachy feel.

 

Moss - slim fit navy matt linen suit

Navy matte linen suit

Let’s go back to linen, the go-to fabric for any warm-weather wedding. This time, it comes in a deep navy tone, which works particularly well for a city wedding, or one hosted in an overseas manor house. With a single breasted closure, it also comes with a matching waistcoat, so you can dress up or down depending on the formality of the event.

If it’s a laid back affair, pair with an open collared shirt and hold the tie for a relaxed look. If you’re off to a formal dinner, however, add a cotton linen blend striped shirt (for extra breathability) and a light knitted tie.

 

Moss - tailored fit oatmeal linen suit

Oatmeal linen suit

If you’re after a bit of texture, this oatmeal linen suit features a classic cross hatch pattern, adding a subtle bit of character. Cut to a tailored fit, it’s slightly looser than a slim fit (adding an extra level of ease) but will still have you looking put together and ready for a full day’s worth of celebrations. It’s also crafted from a 100% linen, keeping you cool and dry all day long.

Wear it open with the matching waistcoat and a tonal tie, adding a light blue shirt for a bit of contrast.

Looking for some more ideas for this year’s weddings? Our spring wedding guide has some great warm-weather pieces to wear for your next destination wedding.

Well-dressed date: What to wear on Valentine’s Day

Need some ideas for what to wear as your Valentine’s date outfit? Wherever you’re headed, Moss has you covered.

HERE’S WHAT TO WEAR THIS VALENTINE’S DAY

Words: C. Saramowicz

 

You’ve got the dinner reservation, ordered the flowers, and nabbed the gift they’ve been talking about for months. Now, all you need is an outfit worthy of the date.

Naturally, your look will be dictated by your setting – it’s highly unlikely you’ll be wearing a suit to a bowling alley – but sometimes it can be difficult to gauge what level of smart (or casual) to go for.

Read on to see our go-to outfit options that will work for every Valentine’s plan.

 

Dinner Date

No matter where you’re headed for dinner, a nice suit will always score some Brownie points. Take it up a notch by going for a double breasted suit in a deep ink tone – crafted from a wool blend with added stretch, it’s got a hydrophobic coating which means you’ll be safe from any spillages all night. It’s also cut to a tailored fit, helping you feel on-point whether you’re going to a Michelin-star joint or a local favourite. Pair it with your favourite non-iron white shirt (to save you some time) and some polished double monks.

If you do want to tone down the look, swap out your shirt for a knitted tee and open up the jacket for easy elegance.

 

Date Night Cocktails

Cocktail bars leave room for a bit of experimentation when it comes to outfit choices. Smart-casual is usually your best bet, but if you want to feel extra sharp, go for a double breasted cord suit in a deep copper tone. Want to ease it up a bit? Remove the jacket and you’ve got a more casual version of the look by pairing it with a neutral coloured merino mock neck. It’ll likely be quite cold in February, which also makes this combination ideal for keeping you cosy. Finish with a pair of tonal chunky loafers for a modern touch.

 

Date in the Daytime

Valentine’s Day doesn’t always have to be reserved for the evening – sometimes the best dates involve daytime activities. If you’re planning on going for a long walk, spending the morning in a coffee shop or perusing the local markets, you’ll be forgiven for wearing something a bit more relaxed. Start with a comfy trouser crafted from a stretch blend. With an internal drawstring for ease of movement, you’ll have day-long comfort that can easily transition to the evening. Pair this with a heavyweight t-shirt in a dark charcoal tone – ours has been peached for extra softness.

For the top layer, invest in a liner jacket. These are a staple for between seasons, the lightweight construction perfect for days that require something a bit airier. Then, add a pair of chunky trainers and you’ve got a casual, fresh look that’s worthy of any date you’ve got planned.

What to wear for a spring wedding

Seasonal wedding outfits, this way.
Moss - dusty pink wedding suit

 

WHAT TO WEAR TO A SPRING WEDDING

Words: A. Fozzard

It’s a fact: people love to get married in spring. It’s probably got something to do with longer days and the likelihood of a bit of sunshine, but we think it’s also about the romance and optimism of a new start.

And dressing up for a spring wedding is good fun. Soft spring suit shades like light blue and grey come into their own in here – choose a blue suit if you’re wearing neutral-shade accessories, and grey tailoring for those brighter colours like pink, yellow, orange and teal. For a destination wedding, linen always makes sense. A neutral linen suit with an unexpected knitted polo underneath can make things feel a bit more casual. And of course, we couldn’t talk about spring weddings without a mention of a tweed three-piece suit. Try yours with a tonal tie for a more formal affair.

PLAY WITH COLOUR

Spring weddings are a great opportunity to lean into lighter and brighter tones – pastel blue, soft pink and oatmeal all work well as a spring suit for warmer celebrations. Our light blue Donegal and dusty pink DKNY suits are cut on our neatly tailored slim-fit block and crafted from a wool blend for breathable warmth. Wear them with the matching waistcoat and a tonal tie for a cohesive look, or go for a more relaxed aesthetic and swap out your shirt for a merino mock neck.

Muted tones are a great way of easing into wearing colour without feeling too intimidated.

 

Moss - tailored fit copper flannel suit

DRESS FOR THE WEATHER

One minute it’s raining, the next it’s beaming sunshine – welcome to spring in the UK. It’s safe to assume it won’t be freezing or boiling, but the middle ground can be just as tricky to dress for.

We recommend banking on a mid-weight fabric, so nothing too heavy like thick wool and nothing too light like hopsack. Look for a worsted fabric in a weight of around 350g or less.

 

The weight of your suit will also be influenced by its construction. A lightweight suit will have light or no shoulder padding, minimal interlinings and a half or buggy lining. The lighter the structure, the breezier the suit. A traditional spring suit will have more structured shoulders and perhaps a half-canvas construction – a luxury addition that will help the suit mould to your frame over time, but will also lock heat in. Consider the wedding date and how much of the day will be spent inside/outside and choose your suit weight accordingly.

 

 

ADD SEASONAL ACCESSORIES

Your choice of accessories is where you can really up the ‘spring’ feel of your outfit. Handy if you’ve moved your wedding date and need to make a darker suit feel more seasonal.

Sunny shades like sage, pale blue, coral and pink are springtime classics that look great with both light and dark shades of suit. They tend to feature in springtime flowers too, so you should be able to match your buttonhole to your accessories easily if you’re in the wedding party. If you’ve gone for a green or brown tweed suit, you can set off the earthy tones and still look cheery for spring with a printed tie.

Of course, if you’re the groom or in the wedding party, your suit and accessory choice might be dictated by what the bridesmaids are wearing. If you’d like to coordinate without outright matching, you can soften the look by wearing two pocket squares, one neutral and one in the theme colour.

If you need some advice on what to wear for weddings all year round, our wedding dress code guide has it all laid out.