Archive for March, 2024

What to hire for Royal Ascot

Back a sure bet for the Royal Enclosure.

WHAT TO HIRE FOR ROYAL ASCOT

BACK A SURE BET FOR THE ROYAL ENCLOSURE
• WORDS: C. STEWART

As the most esteemed Ascot ticket, the Royal Enclosure has a strict dress code: you’re required to wear three-piece morning dress and a top hat is an absolute must. Black morning suits are the standard, but grey is also acceptable and looks great if the sun is shining.

Hire our Royal Ascot package in-store or online from £79.95. If you’re ordering a top hat you’ll have to collect from one of our stores. We’ve got several dress code-approved options including our exclusive Royal Ascot morning suit. Specially designed for the British summer, it’s crafted from luxurious pure new wool that’ll keep you warm on an overcast day, but also keep you stay cool if the sun does come out.

You’ll need to place your order by 14th June if you order online but we usually still have availability to hire in-store after this, in case you get a last-minute ticket.

HOW TO ACCESSORISE YOUR ASCOT HIRE SUIT

If you’re hiring the full package from us, you’ll have your pick from our selection of waistcoats, neckwear and pocket squares. But you’re also free to mix in any of our ready-to-wear collection too – we’re predicting the Beckham-approved double-breasted waistcoat as the piece to be seen in at this year’s races.

As for your neckwear, it must be a tie, not a cravat. Keep it sophisticated with a silk tie in a paisley print or a colourful stripe – go easy though, as this is definitely not the time for ill-gifted novelty-wear. And finally, your shoes must be black and you’d do well to give them a serious polish.

 

How to hire a suit

Everything you need to know about hiring a suit, this way.
Moss - suit hire

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT SUIT HIRE

Words: L. Thorpe

Think hiring a suit is hard work? Think again. We’ve made it easy to make the most of your eventwear with Moss, wherever you’re heading.

When it comes to dressing well, Moss has been a trusted name in the tailoring world for decades. Whether you’re going to a special event, a job interview, wedding or you just want to try out a new look to elevate your style, hiring a suit from Moss is a fantastic option. 

Got something coming up but not sure how to hire a suit? Here are the five simple steps you need to try a new style.

Moss weddings - Man in a camel tan suit

Explore the collection

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

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

Determine your size

Knowing your measurements is crucial to finding a suit that fits you like a glove. It also makes your suit hire process easier, as you know it’s going to fit you as soon as it arrives. If you don’t have time to make an in-store appointment to get measured, our size guide should help.

Grab a measuring tape and note down your chest, waist, and inseam measurements. This will help you select the right size when it comes to hiring your suit.

Moss weddings - man wearing grey suit

Book it in

Once you’ve found the suit that speaks to you, it’s time to reserve it. You can do so in store or online and either get it delivered to your chosen store, or an address of your choice, by courier. It’s as easy as that.

We’ll deliver your suit four days before your event so you can try everything on ahead of the day, so keep that in mind when you’re choosing where it gets delivered to. Let us know the dates you want it for and give yourself enough time to wear and return your suit.

Styling your look

Now that you have your hired suit in hand, it’s time to complete your outfit. You can either order some accessories to go with your suit, get help styling it in-store or pair it with some existing pieces from your own wardrobe. Your suit is all yours while you need it, so make the most of it.

Moss weddings - man in a navy tuxedo

Returning the suit

After your event, it’s time to return the suit. You’ve got two days after your hire date to return your suit to any Moss store, or return by courier using the instructions provided. There’s an additional cost to send it back by courier – make sure you send back your full outfit, zip bag and have your documents ready for the courier when they arrive.

If you’ve arranged a group hire, you can either take care of them all in one go or each individual hirer can return their own. Just decide what’s going to be best for you and make sure everyone’s clear on what they need to do.

Ready to hire a suit?

Hiring a suit from Moss is a hassle-free way to elevate your style, whatever the event. By following these simple steps, you can confidently hire a suit that fits perfectly and reflects your personal style. With our wide selection and excellent customer service you’ll be ready, wherever you’re going next.

Hiring a suit for your wedding

Here’s why you should hire a suit for your wedding.
Man in paisley Italian silk tie

 

HERE’S WHY YOU SHOULD HIRE A SUIT FOR YOUR WEDDING

Words: L. Thorpe

 

Your wedding day is a celebration of love, joy and unforgettable moments. As the groom, you want to look your absolute best as you stand at the altar. However, investing in a brand-new suit solely for this occasion might not be the most practical choice, unless you plan to wear it over and over again.

That’s where suit hire comes in. Let’s take a closer look at why hiring a suit for your wedding is a smart move when it comes to style.

Moss weddings - Man wearing tails

Look good for less

Weddings can be expensive, and every penny counts when planning your dream day. Hiring a suit is a budget-friendly option that allows you to achieve the right look for such a big day without breaking the bank. With suit hire, you’ll have your pick of our latest and most popular groom looks without the cost of buying a new suit.

Moss weddings - man wearing tails

Variety and style

Lots of grooms want to express their individuality and style on their wedding day. Suit hire opens up a world of possibilities, with everything from trending tweeds and flannels to statement double-breasted suits and boldly check cloths, all in your choice of cut. Whether you prefer a classic black tuxedo, a streamlined navy suit or a contemporary slim-fit suit, you’ll find your fit with Moss Hire.

Moss weddings - groom in a grey suit

Value for money

Planning a wedding involves plenty of juggling tasks and timelines (check out our wedding planning checklist for tips). Hiring a suit takes away the stress of searching for, buying and maintaining a new suit, letting you to focus on other important aspects of wedding planning. You can get a suit that fits with your wedding theme, venue or personal style – the choice is totally yours. Find out more about how to hire a suit.

Sustainability and minimal waste

If making your wedding day as sustainable as possible is important to you, hiring a suit reduces waste and space needed for storage. By choosing to hire, you contribute to a circular economy by extending the life cycle of suits. This eco-friendly choice can give you peace of mind, knowing that you’re making a positive impact on the environment – all while looking great of course.

Moss weddings - groom in a beige suit

Group hire

Got a wedding party to dress? Our group hire makes getting everyone’s outfit sorted way easier. Choose your suit online, mock up looks and share them with the rest of your party or partner to get their opinions and help make up your mind. 

Once you’ve made your choice, you can add your wedding party group members to the list to get their fits right (hint: in-store sizing appointments for everyone in the group will make your life easier). Then add delivery address, payment details and collection info. You’ll need to give us everyone’s email so we can keep your group in the loop when it comes to their hire.

Ready to start planning your wedding suit and wedding party outfits? Here’s where to get started with choosing the suit for your big day.

Why hire a suit?

Suit hire: sustainable, smart and simple.
Man in paisley Italian silk tie

 

HERE’S WHY HIRING A SUIT IS A GREAT OPTION

Words: L. Thorpe

 

There’s no denying that a well-fitted suit is a wardrobe classic. Whether it’s for a wedding, a business event or a special occasion, a suit can totally transform how you look and feel. If you don’t wear a suit that often, or you want to wear the latest styles, it can be a challenge  to keep up.

While owning a suit might seem like the obvious choice, there’s an alternative that offers plenty of advantages for those seeking.

4 reasons to think about suit hire

There’s nothing quite like an amazing suit to make you feel like a million dollars. But sometimes, suit hire can make much more sense than buying one. Whether you hate wearing the same outfit twice, or you don’t wear a suit enough to justify owning one, here are four reasons hiring a suit might make sense for you.

What to wear to get married abroad ; a groom wears a grey wedding suit for a summer wedding

Cost effective

Let’s face it. If you wear a suit once a year at most, hiring rather than buying is a more cost-effective and sustainable option. With suit hire, you can achieve a polished look for that day or two when you might need to be a little less casual, all without breaking the bank.

Hiring a suit lets you access a wide range of well-tailored suits at a fraction of the cost of buying one, making sure you look your best for that important event without having to splash out.

Versatility and variety

One of the best things about suit hire is choice. You don’t have to commit to just one. From classic black tuxedos to contemporary slim-fit suits in all colours and patterns, the options are up to you. We take pride in curating suit hire collections for every taste and occasion. So, whether you’re attending a formal black-tie affair or a more relaxed summer wedding, you can find the perfect suit to match the tone and style of the event.

This means you can experiment with different styles and explore trends without long-term commitment. You’ll never show up at different events in the same outfit, and you don’t need to fill your wardrobe to achieve that.

What to wear to get married abroad ; a groom wears a grey wedding suit for a summer wedding

Convenience and peace of mind

Planning for a special occasion can be stressful, with a million things to think about. Suit hire skips one of these potential headaches by offering a hassle-free solution. Rather than spending time shopping for a suit, you can browse through online or in-store collections, select your preferred style, and have it delivered to your doorstep or pick it up at a nearby location. Even better if you get measured up in store first, so there’s no doubt about what size to choose.

The entire process is designed to make your life easier, so you can focus on other important aspects of your event. Additionally, we take care of the cleaning and maintenance, saving you from the worries of dry cleaning and ensuring your suit is fresh and ready to wear. The way our suits are cleaned sterilises them completely so when you hire one, you don’t need to worry about cleaning it first.

Need some wedding planning tips? We’ve got you.

Sustainability

If you’re trying to be more environmentally conscious about how you shop, hiring a suit can be a sustainable choice – especially if you don’t wear them that often.

It stops unworn suits eventually ending up in landfill and can extend the life of that formalwear, since its worn as much as possible. And, the added bonus is you don’t need to compromise on style, fit or choice.

What to wear to get married abroad ; a groom wears a grey wedding suit for a summer wedding

Find out more about suit hire

Take a look at the suits available on Moss Hire and find your favourite fit for your next event.

How much is it to hire a suit?

Here’s how to plan your suit hire budget.
Man in paisley Italian silk tie

 

HOW MUCH IS IT TO HIRE A SUIT?

Words: L. Thorpe

Hiring a suit can be smart and cost-effective when you want to feel confident and prepared and postive. Whether it’s for a special occasion, a job interview, or a formal event, hiring a suit lets you look sharp without making a long-term investment.

Let’s look at the costs associated with hiring a suit so you can see if it fits in with your budget, and whether it makes more sense to hire or buy.

What to wear to get married abroad ; a groom wears a grey wedding suit for a summer wedding

How much does hiring a suit cost?

The cost of hiring a suit can vary based on several factors. Here are a few things to think about when you’re setting your suit hire budget:

  • Suit type: the price of hiring a suit can depend on the type of suit you choose. Tuxedo and black tie suits are usually priced differently compared to lounge suits, tails or more casual suiting.
  • Rental duration: the length of time you need the suit will have an impact on the cost. If you need extra time, or a longer rental period (maybe for a wedding abroad) then this might make a difference to the cost of your suit hire.
  • Suit brand and quality: the reputation and quality of the suit brand can influence the price. Premium brands or designer suits may have higher hire fees compared to more affordable options.
  • Accessories: additional accessories like shirts, ties, shoes and cufflinks may be available for hire separately or as part of a package. Including these accessories can add to the overall cost.

With our suit hire process, you can choose the full package where you get a jacket, trousers, shirt, waistcoat and pocket square and all in one. There are also cheaper options for just the suit set or jacket and trousers. It comes down to what you prefer, your budget and what items you actually need when you hire.

What to wear to get married abroad ; a groom wears a grey wedding suit for a summer wedding

Typical price to hire a suit

While specific prices will vary depending on what you choose, it’s helpful to understand a general price range for suit hire before you start. Our suit hire prices range from around £80 to £180 for different types of suits and packages.

What to wear to get married abroad ; a groom wears a grey wedding suit for a summer wedding

Value for money

When considering the cost of hiring a suit, it’s important to recognise the value it gives you. Renting a suit means you can enjoy the feeling of wearing high-quality, well-tailored outfits without committing to an upfront investment.

You can feel like you’re wearing the right suit for the right event, without the hassle of storage and maintenance. Read up on why to hire a suit so you can make sure you’re making the right choice for you and your budget.

To make suit hire even more affordable, think about planning ahead to make sure you’ve got it organised, and that what you want is in stock. This means no last-minute dashes to top up on extras, or having to get a suit you’re not 100% happy with. Choosing a suit hire package can actually work out more cost-effective too, as the little additions you don’t think about can add up.

Hiring a suit makes it easy to dress up for special events without straining your budget. By thinking about when you need to hire a suit and what you need to hire, you can find a suit that suits your style and meets your financial needs. So next time you need to dress up, think about hiring and enjoy looking sharp without breaking the bank.

Tuxedo vs suit – what’s the difference?

Suit or tuxedo? Answers here.

 

HOW IS A TUXEDO DIFFERENT FROM A SUIT?

Words: A. Fozzard

 

What’s the difference between a suit and a tux? It’s more than just the colour or the addition of a bow-tie.

Below, we unpick the tuxedo and all its parts so you’ll know you’re wearing the right thing next time you get a black-tie invitation.

FIRSTLY, IS IT A TUXEDO OR A DINNER SUIT?

 It’s actually just in the name. In the UK we traditionally say dinner jackets, while across the pond they say tuxedos. But now you’ll find it called a tuxedo more often than not.

OK, SO SUIT OR TUX?

Both are pretty smart, right? Yes, but the real difference between a tuxedo and a standard suit is that one is more refined than the other. It comes down to satin – tuxedos and dinner jackets have it, while suit jackets generally don’t. You’ll usually see satin adding elegance to the lapels, buttons and pockets of a tuxedo jacket. The satin is often black, but also appears as the same colour as the jacket in some occasions, like on our navy texture jacket. The main body material can have a slight sheen too, which you don’t normally see on standard suits.

 

Moss - tailored fit navy texture jacket

 

The lapels of a suit and tux are where the lines start to blur. Both evening suit jackets and dinner jackets can have notch and peak lapels, with peak lapels generally standing out as the dressier option. The difference comes with shawl lapels. These are the single pieces of material that sit in an unbroken curve from your collar to your waist, and they’re only seen on tuxedo jackets, like our tailored fit shawl lapel tuxedo.

You’re also more likely to see a single-button fastening on a tux and a two-button fastening on a business suit. It’s because, broadly speaking, the fewer buttons there are on a jacket the more formal it is. Both dinner jackets and suit jackets can be double-breasted, so it’s best to look at the other pointers to decide which side of the fence it sits on.

 

Moss - barberis tuxedo

 

HOW TO STYLE A TUXEDO THE CLASSIC WAY

For black-tie invitations, you’ve got a dress code to follow. This actually makes styling your tux pretty easy if you want to follow the rules.

The classic partner to your tux is a white dress shirt – it can have either white or black buttons, and will sometimes be pleated down the front. Choose a classic collar, saving wing collars for white-tie, and remember your cufflinks because your shirt will probably have double cuffs too.

Then, add a bow tie (learn how to tie a bow tie here). Play it safe with black, or let it be the talking point of your outfit with something bigger or brighter. Finish off your accessories with a white pocket square in a flat fold or in a neat ruffle. You can also wear a cummerbund (the large waist sash associated with tuxes) but it’s not necessary.

Finally, choose a pair of dress shoes in matte or patent leather and give them a good polish the night before.

HOW TO DO BLACK TIE YOUR OWN WAY

Rules are good and all, but we think the best looks exist outside of the dress code. Try a trending jewel-toned jacket like our burgundy velvet. Or flip the monochrome palette with a white dinner jacket worn over a black shirt; it still looks smart but adds a bit of interest to your look.

Something more relaxed more your style? A fine woollen rollneck looks just as refined as a shirt and bow-tie, but is all about comfort.

 

Moss - slim fit burgundy velvet jacket

 

Royal Ascot 101

When the sartorial stakes are as high as those on your betting slip, it pays to get a little insider information.

WHEN THE SARTORIAL STAKES ARE AS HIGH AS THOSE ON YOUR BETTING SLIP, IT PAYS TO GET A LITTLE INSIDER INFORMATION

• WORDS: C. STEWART

Got yourself an invitation to Royal Ascot? The world’s most famous race meeting is an exhilarating day out but it does come with its own set of style rules that must be followed. Your luck’s in then – we’re here to help.

It’s tradition to follow the Royal Ascot dress code, but it will differ depending on the type of ticket you have. If you have access to Ascot’s Royal Enclosure then it’s a must to wear a morning suit. Our Royal Ascot hire collection has been designed to meet the dress code of this prestigious event, so you’re free to relax and enjoy yourself.

It’s best to have your hire booked by the end of May but if you get a last-minute ticket, still come and see us as we can sort your outfit as long as we have stock left.

If you’re in the grandstand, then you’re required to wear a suit with a shirt and tie. You’ll find that morning suits are still a really popular choice even in public enclosures, so feel free to go for one if you want to go all out. If you decide to stick with a suit, we recommend plumping for a three-piece and pairing it with a colourful silk tie and pocket square for a suitably grand outfit.

SHOP THE ROYAL ASCOT LOOK

 

Spring workwear essentials

What you need to know about this essential suit style.

UPDATE YOUR WORKWEAR FOR THE NEW SEASON

Words: C. Saramowicz

 

With the slow but steady arrival of spring, it’s time to shake off the remnants of winter and breathe new life into your weekday wardrobe. And with a new season come new fabrics, styles and ways to wear your work suit. These are the ones you’ll be reaching for every spring and beyond. Read on to see our picks for the season ahead.

SHOP BUSINESS SUITS

 

Moss - Italian tailored fit taupe check suit

Elevated checks for work days and weekend days

If you’re looking to get one check suit this season, let it be this one; crafted from the finest Italian wool at the famous Barberis mill in Biella, it’s an elevated take on a classic that will see you through the working week and beyond. Neutral coloured checks are great because you can dress them up and down as you please; pair with a crisp white Oxford and tie for a big meeting, or layer over a open collared shirt like a skipper for smart-casual days.

 

Performance is everything

Office days require a sturdy, reliable suit that will stand the test of time. In come our performance suits, a collection of tailoring engineered for durability (they look good too). With a water, stain and crease-resistant coating, you’ll be gliding from meeting to client lunches without worrying about a crumpled getup. Add a bit of stretch, and commuting is a dream. Learn more about our performance suits here.

This one comes in a deep green tone and is cut to a sharp, tailored fit.

 

Moss - tailored fit navy raincoat

The right coat for the season

Unfortunately for us Brits, spring is also a time for wet weather. You don’t want to be lugging around a heavy winter jacket in warmer temperatures though – our navy raincoat is ideal for the changing season, protecting your suiting from the elements and looking good doing it too. Crafted from a lightweight cotton for extra breathability, it comes with a removable nylon insert that adds an additional level of warmth and protection if there is a cooler snap. If it does get warm, remove it altogether for a light jacket ready to take on spring showers.

SHOP BUSINESS SUITS

Spotlight on: men’s chinos

Menswear’s wardrobe all-rounder.

SPOTLIGHT ON: MEN’S CHINOS

YOUR WARDROBE’S ALL-ROUNDER

• WORDS: R. TOOK

 

Since the military decided durable cotton twill was an ideal option for their uniforms, the chino has been a dependable supporting piece of kit for men’s wardrobes the world over. Renowned for its relaxed, straight-legged silhouette, the chino now has a legacy of its own.

WHAT ARE CHINOS?

Renowned for their relaxed, straight-legged silhouettes, men’s chinos now has a legacy of their own. Historically worn in the heat of Vietnam, this staple has since enjoyed several innovations: a leg crease, a dry hand feel, a thicker twill weave, slimmer legs and higher rises, all of which have seen the chino transition from uniform to formal-only to casual in the span of a few decades. Stretch in the fabric also means they tend to fit well and last longer. Innovation? Absolutely.

SHOP CHINOS

 

Moss - off white worker chino

CAN I WEAR CHINOS TO WORK?

Of course. The improvements detailed above make today’s chino a great partner for a business casual shirt and an unstructured smart jacket. If you want a more classic look, black chinos are a great alternative to tailored trousers, and will look just as smart when paired with a white Oxford and chunky loafers. Working from home these days? Wearing yours with a knitted polo or boxier-fit shirt should hit the right spot. If you’re not sure about styling your chinos for your day-to-day, our experts in our stores will gladly show you your options at a one-to-one styling appointment.

 

Moss - slim fit dark taupe chinos

CAN I WEAR CHINOS AT THE WEEKEND?

Got plans to spend the whole of Saturday out and about in town, or maybe a Sunday spent kicking about closer to home? The versatility of men’s chinos means they’ll likely work no matter where you’re headed. Brighten it up by pairing a dusty pink pair with a neutral knitted tee, or go for classic khaki with a merino crew neck if the temperature drops. Finish with a pair of chunky trainers, or go for a casual loafer if you’re heading to a nice dinner.

 

Moss - slim fit khaki stretch chino

IT’S HOT: CAN I WEAR CHINOS IN SUMMER?

The chino was intended for summer heat and easy wear. Cotton is lightweight and breathes well, and the way chinos are constructed means they’re lighter than denim and have more give than a pair of formal trousers. They’ll look fresh with trainers or loafers, and you can try brogues or anything with a round toecap if you want to elevate your look a little. Still too hot? Try chino shorts. And if you need some tips on how to style them, read our guide on how to wear chino shorts.

 

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT STYLES OF CHINOS?

At Moss, we have a range of men’s chinos to suit everyone (yes, even the non-chino guy).

Our stretch chinos are cut to a slim flattering fit and crafted from organic cotton, with added stretch for a roomier feel. Great for smart-casual looks or more relaxed settings, they’re a versatile style that looks just as good with an Oxford shirt as they do with a crew neck.

Our worker chinos are slightly more laid back – with an elasticated waistband and roomier at the seat, these are your go-to weekend chinos that will see you through all your out-of-office plans.

Want to find out how to wear other trouser styles? Read our guide to men’s trousers.

Five suits for SS24

The suit’s still going strong for autumn/winter 23, reconfigured for now with softer structures and relaxed details.
Moss - tailored fit port flannel double breasted suit

 

OUR PICKS OF SUITS FOR SPRING/SUMMER 24

Words: C. Saramowicz

 

This season’s suits are made for summer’s more leisurely pace with un-done structures, airy fabrics and relaxed details. Whether you’re heading to a summer wedding, or just need to refresh your warm-weather wardrobe, we’ve got all the tailoring you need for the warmer days ahead.

 

 

Moss - slim fit camel flannel suit

Neutral tones

Having a go-to neutral suit is fundamental for any wardrobe. Not only are neutral tones trending, but they make a perfect base for any outfit. Dress it up with coloured accessories such as ties, hanks or shoes, or keep it simple if the dress code calls for something a bit more elevated. With a slim fit, our light camel flannel sharpens the silhouette from head to toe – together, it makes for an ideal wedding groom or guest suit, but can easily be split up and worn as separates too.

 

Moss - tailored fit port flannel double breasted suit

A hint of colour

Red is also having a moment this season. This port flannel suit looks great with silvers and whites, but can be combined with pinkier tones if you’re feeling particularly bold.

Cut to a tailored fit with a double-breasted closure, it easily smartens up your event wardrobe. And with added stretch for extra comfort, you’ll be at-ease all night.

 

Airy linen

A summer tailoring collection isn’t complete without a linen suit. Light and breathable, they’re ideal for warm-weather events where you’ll be wearing them all day long. Cut to a flattering slim fit, our navy matte linen suit offers a smart, summer alternative to flannel and tweed and comes with a matching waistcoat for extra refinement.

The linen is also blended with Sorona®, a plant-based fibre that offers extra softness and stretch and reduces creasing. Combine with a non-iron shirt and a knitted tie for an elegant finish.

 

Moss - Italian Barberis tailored fit navy stripe suit

Classic stripes

Pinstripes get an Italian twist with our navy stripe suit. With pure wool hailing from Barberis, the world-famous mill based in Como, Italy, its textured surface gives the appearance of linen while offering a level of breathability too.

Cut to a classic tailored fit with the addition of a waistcoat, pair with a crisp white shirt and patterned tie if you’re going for the classic feel. For a tonal look, add a denim shirt.

 

 

Moss - tailored fit army green performance suit

The all-rounder

A must-have in your summer wardrobe, the army green performance suit will take you from wedding days to evening events with ease. Featuring a water, stain and crease resistant coating, it’ll have you looking smart all day long, regardless of the weather.  Wear as a two-piece to work, adding the matching waistcoat for a more formal affair.

 

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