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.

 

All the spring shoes you need

From loafers to brogues to traineres, here are all the shoes you need for spring.

 

EVERY SHOE YOU NEED FOR YOUR SPRING/SUMMER WARDROBE

Words: T. MacInnis

 

One of the easiest ways to shake up your wardrobe for a new season is with accessories. The cornerstone accessory of any outfit? A great shoe. Whether you’re wearing a suit to work, a smart-casual look to a wedding or a laid-back look at the weekend, the right shoe can be the perfect finishing touch.

From sandals to loafers to double monk-strap shoes, we’ve got everything you need for the warmer months. Read on to see them all and get outfit inspiration.

 

Moss - white leather trainer

White leather trainers

You can’t go wrong with a solid pair of white trainers; they pretty much go with everything, and they’re lightweight enough to see you through spring and into summer with ease. Ours are crafted from brilliant white leather and pair well with anything from denim to chinos, all the way to light-coloured casual suiting.

 

Moss - brighton grey khaki chunky trainers

Colour-blocked trainers

As seen above, trainers are essential year-round shoes, but you can switch up your trainer choice when warmer weather hits. Our Brighton neutral trainers offer up that more summer-y feel thanks to their lighter colour palette and on-trend chunky sole. They’ll also go with just about anything you’d like, be it shorts on a really warm day or a suit in a smart-casual setting.

 

Moss - camden chestnut chunky loafer

Leather loafers

Leather loafers with chunky soles are a massive trend right now, and we’ve got two pairs this season: one in black and one in warm brown. Use the black ones to ground a lighter-coloured outfit, or pair them with a suit to add some personality. The brown ones are ideal for more casual outfits, or if you want to make a summer suit a bit less formal.

 

Suede loafers

While still on-trend like their leather counterparts, these suede loafers are a more classic take on the shoe. Straddling the line between loafer and deck shoe, they’ll work well with a pleat-front short for a preppy look, or with a suit for a garden party. They’re also ideal for smartening up a pair of jeans—just be sure to balance the look with a polo or a casual collared shirt.

 

Moss - highgate brown tassel loafer

Tassle loafers

There are loads of choices when it comes to formal shoes, but if you’re looking for something a bit different, go with a tassle loafer. Crafted from a light brown leather, they make for an unexpected alternative to classic Oxfords that’ll work with pretty much any suit. The tassle detailing also adds an extra level of texture and interest.

Whatever shoes you choose to add to your wardrobe this season, make sure you’re focused on versatility both in their silhouette and their colour. Consider how often you’ll wear them and make sure there’s more than one occasion they’re appropriate for. That way, you’ll get the most out of them, and for your money.

 

Don’t forget the socks…

Socks are just as important as the shoe, especially if they’ll be on show. If you’re heading to a wedding, match them up with your tie (or your buttonhole if you’re a groomsman) for a cohesive, intentional look that will turn heads.

 

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.

What to wear: between seasons

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

TRANSEASONAL WARDROBE STAPLES

Words: C. Saramowicz

 

The time between seasons can be tricky to navigate when it comes to outfitting. With our ever-unpredictable British weather, it’s wise to invest in versatile pieces that can withstand the transition from winter, to spring, to eventually summer. Year-round fundamentals, if you will. Read on to see our picks for the transeasonal period.

 

Moss - khaki liner jacket

Lightweight jackets

When it’s too warm for a thick winter coat but not quite balmy enough to go without, it’s time to look into lightweight jackets. Shackets and overshirts are great options here – throw them over a cotton tee or a light knit and you’ve got a smart-casual look that’s ready for a breezy weekend.

If you need something a bit more durable, a liner jacket hits the spot. It’s the perfect layering piece; crafted from breathable cotton, it’ll keep you cosy when paired with a long-sleeved knit, but works equally as well as a middle layer, locking in warmth with its light padding.

 

Moss - ecru slouchy boucle crew neck jumper

Airy knits

Jumpers aren’t just for the dead of winter – a lightweight knit can do wonders between the seasons. Our slouchy boucle crew neck, for example, is light enough to wear on its own (and feels great against the skin due to the soft cotton composition), but can be layered over a casual shirt if the occasion calls for it.

If you want to stay classic, merino knits are a staple for any transeasonal smart-casual wardrobe. Smarten them up with suit, or pair with chinos and loafers for easy elegance.

 

Moss - slim fit brown check linen trousers

Versatile trousers

A good pair of trousers will see you through the seasons, especially if they’re in a neutral tone like our light brown check linen trousers. Lightweight enough for warmer days, linen trousers work just as well with the matching jacket as they do on their own, paired with a knitted tee or a loose button-down. Tailored on our slim block, they’ll take you from desk to drinks with ease.

 

Moss - slim fit copper cord DB suit

Foundational suiting

A new take on timeless tailoring, like our copper cord suit, will see you through events and casual evenings alike. Crafted from a fine needlecord in a trending copper tone, the double-breasted closure elevates the look but still feels modern due to the slim fit. However you choose to style it – a roll neck, crew neck or a smart shirt – you’re guaranteed to wear it time and time again, regardless of the season.

If you’re looking for your new favourite all-round suit, the brown check linen ticks all the boxes. Lightweight enough for summer nuptials – pair it with a linen shirt for a relaxed feel – the neutral light brown tone works perfectly for the office too.

 

Moss - Lewisham khaki suede casual loafer

Fool-proof footwear

As the weather gets warmer, a good transeasonal shoe should work for a wealth of occasions and be versatile enough for daily wear too. Take the loafer, for example – our Lewisham loafers are crafted from Italian suede, with contrast stitching to add a bit of extra charm, and are simple enough to be worn with tailored trousers and chinos alike. Got a spring wedding coming up? Pair your loafers with a good suit, adding a statement sock for extra flair.

If you’re after something a bit more casual, you can’t go wrong with a good trainer. Our chunky Brightons are a modern take on the classic sports shoe, with neutral tones throughout for easy styling. Ease them into spring and summer wear by pairing them with cargo trousers, worker chinos or a casual suit.