Archive for the ‘Hire-Occasions’ Category

When should you hire a suit?

Because suit hire is a great option for so many occasions.
Man in paisley Italian silk tie

 

HERE’S WHEN YOU SHOULD HIRE A SUIT

Words: L. Thorpe

Whether it’s a formal occasion, a corporate event, or a special celebration, the right suit can make sure you’re feeling confident and ready to go for your next event. But what if you don’t have a suit ready and waiting in your wardrobe?

That’s where suit hire steps forward. Here’s a closer look at some of the most common events and times you might choose to hire a suit, rather than buy one.

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

Black tie events

Black tie events are usually big on a formal dress code. Whether it’s a high-glamour gala, a prestigious awards ceremony or a lavish wedding, sticking to the dress code you’ve been given is essential. Hiring a suit for black tie events makes sure you’ll have a perfectly fitted tuxedo or dinner suit that helps you feel comfy and confident while still hitting the dress code.

Moss Hire gives you a choice of of classic and contemporary styles, so you can get one that’s the right fit for the occasion. If your black tie event is something that only happens every now and again, hiring rather than buying just makes sense.

Weddings

Whatever your role in a wedding, you might not plan on wearing your suit for a while once the big day passes by you, especially if you’re not a frequent suit wearer. If you’re the groom, best man or a guest, hiring a suit can be a good idea.

We even do group hire if you need something that matches for the wedding party. It’s one less thing to worry about and can make sure you look your best. For events like weddings, family events and formal fits, co-ordinating your suit can be key. Not only does group hire take the hassle out of the process, it means you’re not stuck with a suit that you won’t ever wear again.

You can dress for the occasion, wedding theme and your role in it without having to worry about your budget, storage or sustainability. Just three reasons why you should hire a suit for a wedding or celebration event.

Job interviews

First impressions matter, especially during job interviews. Dressing professionally demonstrates your commitment and respect for the opportunity. It can make the difference in whether you get hired or not, so putting in the effort can be well worth it.

Dressing to impress for a job interview is a good idea, but if your actual role calls for something a bit more casual, you might not want to buy a suit. That’s when hiring a suit can be a smart move; choose something like a lounge suit or a more relaxed tweed suit to make the right impact at your interview. Try and get a feel for the dress code before you go – we’re all for dressing well, but you don’t want to give off an impression that you won’t fit in. Try some less formal fits and fabrics like flannel, or pair a relaxed suit with smart trainers for a more casual feel that’s still interview-ready.

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

Race day

Race days are the perfect opportunity to dress up and look the part. But again, it’s a day or two in the calendar year, so if you’re not wearing a suit for other events, hiring a suit can mean you turn heads without blowing the budget – you can look a million bucks without spending it.

From impeccable tailoring to superfine fabrics, we’ve got it all. So why settle for anything less than extraordinary when you hit the races? Choose Moss Hire and for a race look that’s confident, comfy and fitted for you. Want to learn more about dressing for race day? We’ve got you with our race day guide on what to wear.

Graduations and proms

Graduation ceremonies and prom nights mark big milestones in life. These events usually call for formal fits that reflect the importance of the occasion. However, they’re usually one-offs so your bank balance might feel better if you look at hiring a suit rather than buying one. Plus, you can pick up on the latest suit trends. It also means that if your height or size changes a little, you don’t end up with a suit in your wardrobe that you can’t actually wear again.

Hiring a suit for prom or graduation lets you celebrate in style, while still feeling confident and dressed your best.

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

Corporate events and conferences

Got a work event coming up where you need to dress to impress? Corporate events, conferences and seminars often need a smart and professional look, whether you’re presenting or attending. Hiring a suit means you can choose a stylish outfit to suit the occasion – no last minute panic or wearing something that you don’t feel good in.

If you’re not at events every week, or you want to make an impression for these special events, our hire collection helps you to hit the mark. You can look great, feel confident and feel stylish.

Thinking about hiring a suit for your next event? Here’s a rundown on how to hire a suit, or head straight to our suit collection to see the styles and choices you can hire.

Posted August 6th, 2023 in Hire-Occasions.

What you need to know about suit hire

A few helpful pointers for your suit hire appointment.

 

YOUR SUIT HIRE QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Words: A. Fozzard

 

Your suit hire appointment is your chance to spend some time with our stylists, getting your outfit just right.

As well as knowing just how a suit should fit, we also know what works for different personalities and occasions. We’ll suggest options that’ll make you feel on form for the big event. It’s also your opportunity to get advice on the details, like how to tie your cravat), as well as ask questions about the rest of the hire process.

BROWSE HIRE COLLECTION

 

WHEN SHOULD I HIRE MY LOOK?

We say no later than 60 days before you need to pick it up, but the sooner the better. Although we have lots of stock, getting in there early means there’s more chance we’ll have the exact suit and fit you want. It also leaves time for any changes you might want to make further down the line. And why not get them sorted early? It gives you one less thing to think about.

HOW LONG DOES HIRING AN OUTFIT TAKE?

You should allow around an hour for your suit hire appointment. It can be relatively quick to find your outfit and get measured up, but having more time means you can try on different outfits, weigh up your options and ask as many questions as you like. What you wear is a big decision, so it’s worth taking some time over it.

WHO GOES TO MY SUIT HIRE APPOINTMENT?

If your suit is for your wedding, you should bring the key decision-makers with you. That’s likely to be you and your other half, or you may have free rein and want to bring your best man or woman to help you decide.

You don’t need to bring all your groomsmen as they can get fitted at a later date. We’ll give you ID numbers for each person, which means they can go to any Moss store and try on a suit in the correct fit. Don’t worry – only the groom (or bride) can make decisions on the outfit, so they won’t be able to change anything without your consent.

If your suit is for prom or a black-tie event, bring whoever you like – or just come along on your own. Though if you’re not paying for the hire yourself, you may want to bring the person who is along too.

WHAT INFO SHOULD I BRING?

There are three key things we’ll need to know before we can give you the best advice on your suit.

      1. Date – we need to know when you need your suits for.
      2. Venue – if it’s outside, in a barn or in a particularly posh venue, our experts will make sure you look the part.
      3. Colour scheme – if you want to match with your bridesmaids or your date for an event, we can help you decide on the best accessories. A swatch or photo of their outfit(s) will be helpful.

 

ANYTHING ELSE I SHOULD KNOW?

Our best tip? Come with an open mind. You might not have considered wearing tails, a burgundy suit or tweed, but put one on and you could be very surprised by how it makes you feel. We see it all the time – a groom puts on tails and he suddenly feels like he is getting married very soon. And it’s the same with a tux for black tie. A great outfit is a powerful thing.

 

BOOK YOUR HIRE APPOINTMENT

Posted March 12th, 2023 in Hire-Occasions, Hire-Weddings, Occasions.

Four easy steps to hire a suit: suit hire guide

Easy does it.

hire a suit

FOUR STEPS TO HIRE A SUIT: SUIT HIRE GUIDE

EASY DOES IT
• WORDS: A. FOZZARD

As you gear up to the biggest event in your calendar, make your suit one less thing to think about on your to-do list.

You don’t need a personal assistant to hire a suit – it’s easy to sort out in just four steps, broken down here by Matthew, our hire expert at our Chester store. Let’s shrink that list now, shall we? Over to Matthew…

hire a suit

STEP 1: SELECT & STYLE

“As soon as you’ve set a date or received an invitation to a big bash, you can book an appointment to try on a few suits and decide what works for you. Most people choose their suits about six months in advance.

“If you’re keen for something quite on-trend, just ask us about the new styles that are coming in. We’ll help you try on similar suits that are already in stock, so you can see what might work for you.

“You don’t have to book a suit by the end of this appointment, but most people do. The fewer people there are with you, the easier it is to make a decision, so try to just bring along one other person, like your best mate, the bride or your dad. And come armed with lots of information about the wedding party. It’s much easier to get everything organised if we have a vague idea of body sizes and proportions. Ask lots of questions at this appointment – we’re here to help.”

hire a suit

STEP 2: GET THE RIGHT FIT

“It’s best to get everyone sized as soon as possible after you’ve chosen your suit. At the latest, you’ll need to size everyone no later than 60 days before the day your collection date. You don’t all need to be together – just book an appointment at the Moss store that suits each of you best. If someone can’t get to a store, we’ll need their height and these measurements: the largest width of the chest (that’s under the arms); shoulder width; waist; arm length; inside leg; and back (from the neck down to just below their bottom).

“Because they’re hired, not made to order, it’s about getting the best fit possible, which is usually very close. You’ll either try on the suit you’re booking or one very similar. It’s a pretty fun part of the process really – it really gets everyone excited for the big day.”

STEP 3: COLLECT YOUR SUIT

“You can collect your suit from us four days before you’re going to wear it, then drop it off two days after. That’s seven days that you have the suit in total.

“You decide which store you pick it up from, so it’s fine if you’re getting married out of town. Just tell us in advance, preferably at your sizing appointment, so we can make sure it’s all ready for you. And if you’re worried about tying your cravat, ask us to do it for you so you can just pop it over your head on the day.”

hire a suit

STEP 4: RETURN WITH EASE

“The question every man asks is ‘Do I need to get it dry-cleaned before I can return it?’ and the answer? No, you don’t. We’ll take care of that.

“You just need to bring everything back within two days after your function date. You can return it to any store, so even if you picked it up in Chester you can return it to Cambridge, for example. And you don’t need to tell us which one you’re taking it back to – just make sure you do it within the two days. We’ll explain all of this at your sizing appointment, but remember to ask about anything you’re unsure of. If you’re not bringing it back yourself, it’s worth nominating someone so you don’t have to worry about it.

“We offer Peace of Mind waiver on hire orders as standard. We always recommend you do take the waiver, so you can relax and focus on enjoying your day.”

 

AND A FINAL WORD

“Tell us everything. The more we know about what you’ve planned, the more we can help get everything organised for you.”

Posted September 6th, 2022 in Hire, Hire-Occasions, Occasions.

Men’s ties: how to tie a four in hand knot

Men’s ties: how to tie a Four in Hand knot

At Moss, we know that caring about the details makes the difference between just turning up and being well turned out. Case in point: a perfectly knotted tie.
As part of a new series, we’ve enlisted the knot-tying experts, Sophisticated Knots, to guide you through the top knots you need to know for a stylish finish all tied up.

 

There has never been a greater time to reinvent the traditional tie. There are countless ways that you can style a tie, however, when it comes to a wedding or a job interview many of us rely on muscle memory to kick in to remind us how to tie the traditional knot we styled in high school.

At Sophisticated Knots, we are dedicated to tying knots with a difference so we’ve partnered with Moss to show you some quick and simple non-traditional knots that will take your tie knots from meek to sleek in no time.

WHAT IS A FOUR-IN-HAND KNOT?

First up: the Four in Hand knot. With just a few simple steps this knot, also known as the Schoolboy knot or the Simple knot, is quick and easy to remember. The slim and sleek finish of the Four in Hand knot matches perfectly with any tailored suit and is usually worn with a dress shirt. This style of knot rose to popularity in the 19th and early 20th century but is still popular today. It’s a more casual tie style than some of the alternative knots like the Full Windsor knot and the Half Windsor knot, so it’s best worn for less formal occasions.

The main feature of the Four-in-Hand knot is a small, asymmetrical knot that’s best worn with ties that are wide and made from heavier fabrics. A good rule for tie width is to match your tie to the width of the lapels on your suit.

HOW DO YOU TIE A FOUR-IN-HAND KNOT TIE?

If you’re not used to ties then you might want to get a little bit of practice in before your event so you’re not learning how to tie your tie under pressure. It does get easier the more you do it so try getting the hang of it in front of the mirror ahead of time if you can.

To tie a Four in Hand knot you need to start with the wide end of the tie on the right and the small end on the left. Begin with the small end slightly above your belly button. Only move the wide end of your tie, the small end should sit on your stomach. Bring the wide end over the small end to the left, then under the small end and to the right. Then bring the wide end across the front and to the left, then up into the neck loop from underneath. After this, take it down through the loop you’ve just made in the front. Tighten the knot by pulling down on the wide end. Slide the knot up & adjust.

Here’s how to do it with images if you find it easier to visualise a Four in Hand knot this way:

 

how to tie a four in hand knot

How to tie a four-in-hand knot

 

Want to add a final flourish? A ‘dimple’ is the mark of a truly sophisticated tie-wearer – simply pinch the top of your tie to create the dimple and hold in place while you tighten the knot.

OTHER TIE STYLES TO TRY

If you decide that a Four in Hand knot isn’t for you, then there are some other casual tie styles that you can try. The Pratt knot ties with a slightly bigger know that the Four in Hand, making the tie longer. This style looks great with a skinny tie, and as it lengthens the tie it can be a great style for taller and bigger men who might find that other types of knots come up a little on the shorter side. The Trinity knot is another casual style that uses a unique three-fold appearance to create an eye-catching look.

Looking for something a bit more formal than a Four in Hand knot tie? You could try the Full Windsor knot (also known as the Double Windsor) or the Half Windsor tie knot. These are usually more suited for formal events such as weddings and business meetings, so if a Four-in-Hand knot isn’t quite cutting it then you should take a look at these alternatives.

We would love to see your knots with your Moss ties – tag us on our social channels at the links below.

Sophisticated Knots was founded by Nathaniel Holder with a vision to provide a service of tying knots with a difference. He and his team offer tutorials and styling services to help individuals, groups and wedding parties tie unique knots that add a touch of flair to everyday wear, corporate events and special occasions. Find more tips and ideas for styling knots at sophisticatedknots.com or follow them on their social channels:

Instagram: @_S_Knots
Twitter: @_S_Knots
Facebook: Sophisticated Knots

Posted June 23rd, 2022 in Expertise, Hire-Occasions.

Ultimate guide to prom suits for men and prom planning tips

 

Here’s how to make prom a night to remember.

prom suits for men

From choosing your prom outfit to making an entrance, here’s how to make prom a night to remember. We’re going to help you prep for your prom like a pro and impress your friends when you hit the red carpet. Learn how to pick out the right prom suit for men in the perfect cut and how to ace your shoes and accessories; our men’s prom outfits guide is a one-stop-shop to looking sharp from head to toe.

And because it’s not all about your threads, we’ve included hair styling tips to polish your appearance and prom car ideas so you arrive in style. We even share how to stage the perfect ‘promposal’ (and what to do if it all goes pear-shaped).

Contents

  1. Suit, tux or blazer?
  2. Skinny, slim or tailored?
  3. Two-piece or three-piece
  4. The colour
  5. The shirt
  6. The accessories
  7. The shoes
  8. Buy or rent?
  9. How to tie a bow tie
  10. How to tie a windsor knot
  11. The hair
  12. Inviting a date
  13. Transport
  14. The afterparty
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PROM SUIT, TUX OR BLAZER?

Unless your prom has a strict dress code, you should be able to choose between a suit, a tuxedo or a blazer and trousers. Here’s the what you should be looking at:

prom suits for men

PROM SUITS

A prom suit is ideal if you want a smart and modern look on the big night. Choose either a 2- or 3-piece suit (a waistcoat being the third piece), and what colour and cut you want: either skinny, slim or tailored. You can go for colour, texture or even a classic black prom suit, depending on your taste.

A slim fit navy check suit will help you stand out from everyone else; it has a fresh appeal with its bright pattern and close-fitting design. A pocket square adds a great finishing touch – perhaps in the same colour as your date’s outfit?

And when prom is nothing but a great memory, this suit can be dusted down and worn again for a big interview or your next special occasion.

TUXEDO

Defined by sleek satin lapels, a wing-collar shirt and bow tie, the tuxedo – as seen above – channels old-school style. Like a suit, tailored, slim and skinny fit variations of the tux mean that men of all sizes and tastes can pull it off, while a pair of black patent shoes, silver cufflinks and a smart dress watch often get paired with this to complete the polished look.

The Moss slim fit black tuxedo would look great at prom. Its sharp cut creates a modern, streamlined silhouette, while the satin lapel adds vintage-style charm.

prom suits for men

BLAZER

The blazer (basically a suit-style jacket) can instantly transform a shirt and smart jeans combo into a prom outfit. Typically available in a bolder range of colours than a standard suit jacket, they also tend to be cut more casually.

For example, you could pair this deep burgundy jacket with a crisp white shirt, colourful bow tie and sharp black jeans. This way you’re keeping to the dress code but putting your own spin on it.

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SLIM OR TAILORED Prom suits for men?

For a suit to look good and feel comfortable, you have to match it to your body type. So, which would you fit best: slim or tailored?

prom suits for men

SLIM FIT

Defined by a tailored, narrow fit around the shoulder, chest, waist and sleeve, the slim fit look is finished off with tapered trouser legs to create a sharp, modern silhouette. It’s a look that works well for men with a slight, slim or medium build.

prom suits for men

TAILORED FIT

The tailored fit is a great way to accentuate your frame, while still leaving room to breathe. Defined by a jacket that’s tapered at the waist and has classic lapels, the trousers are tapered for a polished look. Ideal for guys with a slim, regular or large build, it’s a style that has wide appeal.

If you’re still not quite sure about your size and ideal cut, why not try our Custom Made service? Not only can you select your fit, colour and lining, but you can also have your owne the suit truly unique. personalised message embroidered on the inside to mak

Just drop in to see us and one of our suit experts will get you measured and have you fixed up and looking razor-sharp.

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SHOULD I GO FOR A

TWO-PIECE OR THREE-PIECE PROM SUIT OR TUX?

Both two- or three-piece suits give you a distinct look. Here’s our take on each to help you choose.

prom suits for men

THREE IS THE MAGIC NUMBER?

A three-piece suit is just like a normal two-piece but has a waistcoat. More formal than a two-piece but less so than a dinner suit, it takes a classic, refined look to the next level.

If you’re looking to channel a touch of old-school charm, or want to echo UFC lightweight champion Conor McGregor who’s known for his three-piece repertoire, perhaps three is the magic number.

DOUBLE TROUBLE

Alternatively, the freedom of a two-piece suit may be more your thing. By ditching the waistcoat it’s easier to go loud with coloured or patterned shirts and ties.

If you’re looking for some inspiration, guys like footballing icon David Beckham and actor Michael Fassbender always pull off two-pieces like pros.

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WHAT COLOUR PROM SUIT SHOULD I CHOOSE:

BLUE, BLACK, GREY… OR SOMETHING UNIQUE?

Do you go for classic black, blue or grey, or switch things up with a daring colour scheme? Let’s explore your options.

BACK TO BLACK

Class and sophistication; that’s what you get with a black prom suit. Whether you opt for the timeless black tuxedo a-la Bond or a slim fit three-piece, it’s a sure-fire winner in the style stakes and can blend perfectly into any prom.

FADE TO GREY

Grey suits can be a suave choice for prom when carefully accessorised. Transform the look of a smart three-piece grey suit with a shot of colour on your shirt, tie or pocket square. Or take a page out of the blazer playbook and go bold with a checked jacket paired with some navy chinos for a casual finish.

INTO THE BLUE

A navy-blue blazer or dinner jacket gives your prom outfit a sense of classic style. This navy lounge suit from our Moss collection combines classic style with a sharp cut. It’s a look that says you mean business.

THE BRAVE AND THE BOLD

You’ll be the talk of prom if you opt for a bold, untraditional colour for your suit. Tie your outfit together with a tie and or pocket square that complement the suit’s colouring or, if you decide you want to make an entrance, dial it up with a bright printed shirt.

Colour doesn’t always have to be loud. This beautifully tailored brown ecru check suit from Moss has bags of vintage charm, thanks to its unconventional shade and classic fit – a perfect blend of traditional and modern.

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FORMAL OR CASUAL?

CHOOSE THE RIGHT SHIRT FOR PROM

You need a shirt. Match the fit to your suit: skinny, slim or tailored. And you have to get the style right.

prom suits for men

FORMAL SHIRT

A formal shirt is a safe bet. Just like your normal shirt, but smarter; it’ll look great paired with your prom suit or blazer. A smooth white shirt in finest cotton and a sharp fit will add a refined edge to your look.

Or why not give your plain suit or blazer a burst of bold with a patterned formal shirt? With its delicate floral pattern, this shirt is a great balance between formal and casual and features a cutaway collar and single cuffs to let the pattern do the talking.

CASUAL SHIRT

After something more causal? This linen shirt by MB will look awesome with a smart suit jacket or blazer. Keep things on the smart side by buttoning it right to the top.

Crisp white is always a good option for prom. This Moss shirt gives a semi-formal vibe with its smart double cuffs, while its extra slim fit is perfect to keep your look streamlined when paired with a standout suit or jacket.

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HOW TO ACCESSORISE A PROM OUTFIT (MEN’S GUIDE)

You’re probably going to want a tie or bow tie, but you can also accessorise your prom suit with things like a pocket square or cufflinks.

TIES AND BOW TIES

A tux needs a bow tie. For colour, you can’t go wrong with classic black. This pre-tied version is easily slipped on and off. Not feeling black? Get a pop of colour with this bold red bow tie instead.

For two- and three-piece prom suits, pick out a regular tie in a colour that complements your suit or date’s outfit. This blue paisley tie from Moss has a light, summery feel to it. Keep it in place with this slick tie bar.

prom suits for men

CUFFLINKS

Provided you haven’t gone mad with colours or patterns in your outfit, cufflinks are a prom essential if you really want to make the effort. Some silver tiger eye flower cufflinks from MB add a bit of designer flair to your outfit.

POCKET SQUARES

Putting a brightly patterned pocket square in the chest pocket of your jacket can give your outfit a boost. Whether you go red, white or blue, or say it with a finely textured print from Moss, it’s a simple but effective upgrade.

prom suits for men

SOCKS

Don’t undo all your hard work by flashing a tatty pair of socks when you stride into prom. A pair of bold socks make a great contrast to your suit. Pick a colour that matches your tie and pocket square to give your ensemble balance.

BELTS

A worn-out belt is really going to show you up. You’ll probably want to match your shoe colour, which might mean a stylish black or brown leather belt will do the trick.

BRACES

Not essential, but worn with a tux or retro-ish suit, braces are a great detail that show you’ve made a real effort – something your date will appreciate.

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HOW TO CHOOSE THE

PERFECT PAIR OF PROM SHOES

Prom shoes say a lot about a man, so pick a pair that makes the right statement. If you’ve decided on a tux or a dress suit, you should probably go with a shiny pair of black patent dress shoes.

prom shoes for men

If you’re going less formal, then you have a ton of colour and style options. These navy suede loafers are from John White. Stylish and distinctive, they’ll pair up well with blue or grey suits.

Feeling something preppier? Leather loafers are traditionally a gentlemanly choice but worn sockless, they’ll add a cheeky twist to tailored trousers in black, blue or grey.

Only if they go with your look can you get away with these sand Chelsea boots. Perfect for a blazer-trousers set-up, they look the business with smart black jeans or beige chinos.
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SHOULD I BUY OR RENT A SUIT?

It’s up to you, and you can do either at Moss. If you visit us in-store to look for your perfect three piece suit or stylish prom suit, our guys will give you impeccable service either way. To make up your mind:

BUYING YOUR PROM SUIT

Starting at £99, buying a prom suit may not be as expensive as you think. Not only will you have something in your wardrobe sorted for your next event or big interview, but can have it tailored for a custom fit at an additional cost.

HIRING A PROM SUIT

Hiring a quality prom suit from Moss can set you back between £40 to £142, so you’ll save a bit on buying. It also gives you the chance to road test a new look with no commitment, or wear an outfit you wouldn’t necessarily invest in.

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WINDSOR KNOT OR BOW TIE?

MASTER THE ART OF TYING A TIE

On the night, you’re going to have to do your tie or bow tie. The first one, you might have had some practice from school. The second one? We show you how:

HOW TO TIE A BOW TIE

The key to mastering the bow tie is to not get it too tight so that it stays perfectly put and doesn’t bunch your collar up. Of course, you could opt for a pre-tied version if you want to save on hassle.

how-to-bow-tiev2

HOW TO TIE A WINDSOR KNOT

Suitable for regular to skinny ties, tying a Windsor knot (the most common tie knot) is a skill you can pull out of the bag for an interview or a business meeting as well as your prom. So it’s worth knowing how to do it yourself.

how-to-windsor-knot

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PROM HAIR IDEAS FOR MEN

Turn some attention to your locks. You could just go with your regular style, but there’s no better time to upgrade to a slick new look that’s befitting of your new threads.

prom suits for men

SHORT FADE

Keep it short and sweet with a contemporary fade, like the model above left.

SIDE PARTED

Above right, a deep side-part looks polished held in place with pomade or some gel.

prom suits for men

NATURAL SWEEP

Above left, this low-key take on the side parting is easy enough to get right.

TEXTURED CROP

Go rough and rugged with this textured take on the usual barber’s short-back-and-sides, shown above right.

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HOW TO PROM-POSE IN STYLE

Time to get a date. If you’re already going out with someone, you’re sorted. But, if you’re single and have had your eye on a special someone, then pop the question. Here are a few ideas:

SAY IT WITH FOOD

Take your date-to-be to their favourite restaurant and get the waiter to slip your note onto the table with the food. Or, order takeaway pizza and have them write your message on the inside of the box.

MIX IT UP

If you’re brave enough, wow your potential date with your musical prowess, and put together a playlist of their favourite tunes called ‘Will you go to the prom with me?’.

SET THE STAGE

Get your favourite local band or DJ to do a shout-out at a gig. It might involve a bit of planning and begging, but then everyone loves a risk taker.

And, if your promposal goes pear-shaped and you’re given the cold shoulder, fear not. Be gracious, take it like a man and go to the prom with your mates. You’ll still have a great time and you never know who else will catch your eye.

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HOW TO TRAVEL TO AND FROM YOUR PROM IN STYLE

If there’s a night you don’t need to get a lift from your parents, it’s prom night. Whether you’re with your mates or a hot date, you need to arrive in style.

JUMP ON THE PARTY BUS

Travelling in a large group? A decked-out ‘party bus’ or limo could be the answer. Enjoy music, laughs and some great pics to post as you head out to prom.

VINTAGE COOL

Impress your date by shunning the clichéd limousine and hire a horse and carriage. Some might say you’re a little old-fashioned, others will think you’re just a modern romantic.

A SLICE OF AMERICANA

Make like a movie star and go for a massive Hummer. Everyone will notice when you arrive, and they’ll probably be taking so many shots of your ride it’ll feel like the red-carpet treatment.

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HOW TO ORGANISE A PROM AFTER-PARTY

The best parties are often the after-parties, so why not organise your own? While party-planning isn’t easy, the end results can be worth it if you get it right. Here are a few tips to kick you off:

  • Organise your party with a group so the tasks are shared out – one team, one dream.
  • Have a brainstorm and pick a good theme, whether it’s casino or 90s rave.
  • Set your budget and put the feelers out for numbers.
  • Get DJs, sort the venue and book door staff if you think you might need them.
  • Send out your invites and sort tickets if you don’t want a load of gate crashers.
  • Buy food and drink.
  • Party the night away!
  • The morning after, enjoy a well-earned break with a lazy pizza and movie day.

Got some ideas now? Take a look through our huge collection of prom suits for men to get your outfit sorted, or browse and Be Inspired by more style tips.

Posted May 18th, 2022 in Hire-Occasions.

Three ways to hire tweed for today

Rework the menswear classic.

THREE WAYS TO HIRE TWEED FOR TODAY

REWORK THE MENSWEAR CLASSIC
• WORDS: L. HOLMES

Tweed used to have a reputation as an expensive go-to textile for the high-born country living set, essentially because clothing fashioned from this sturdy weave was an excellent way of keeping the cold at bay while they were galavanting about outdoors. And although this is still the case, it’s now also a fabric that a style-conscious city-dweller can turn to when there’s a decided nip in the air. Only this time investing in tweed won’t break the bank, especially so if you consider hiring your suit rather than buying.

CAN I HIRE A TWEED SUIT FOR AN IMPORTANT CLIENT MEETING?

Almost definitely – wear yours as a three-piece for a look that says ‘I’ve got this’. In fact, tweed is that rare breed of a fabric that has so successfully morphed from countryside uniform to workplace-ready togs, you’ll wonder why it’s taken you so long to recognise its potential to hit the mark in the boardroom. Our Donegal tweed suit is slim-cut, lightweight and breathable for all the implied tradition and reliability of tweed but with a distinctly modern feel. Pair yours with a button-collar shirt, brogues and a CEO-worthy striped tie.

WHAT IF I’M LOOKING FOR SOMETHING A LITTLE MORE CASUAL THAN A THREE-PIECE SUIT?

That’s easily resolved: ditch the waistcoat and hire a two-piece suit instead. You could style it with a shirt and tie and it’ll still feel more casual than it would with a waistcoat. Our advice? Break with tradition and scrap the formal shirt and tie altogether in favour of styling your tweed with an open-necked printed shirt instead. A classic pair of sunglasses is optional but encouraged for a look that’s completely at ease.

I’M SOLD ON THE IDEA OF TWEED BUT DON’T NEED TO HIRE A SUIT

If you want to wear tweed but also want to dial it down, hire just the jacket to upgrade pieces you probably already own. We suggest block-coloured knitwear and a pair of crisply tailored trousers for an uncomplicated, modern feel. Not only will simple basics balance the richness of tweed, but this combination will also take you comfortably from client lunch to mid-week date to that tricky smart-casual weekend invitation you’ve been worrying about. Proof, if any were needed, that hiring tweed is very much suited to anything today’s got in-store.

HIRE YOURS

Posted January 29th, 2020 in Hire-Occasions.

How to always be outfit-ready in 2020

New decade, new way to dress.

HOW TO ALWAYS BE OUTFIT-READY IN 2020

A NEW DECADE, A NEW WAY TO DRESS
• WORDS: L. HOLMES

We’re all guilty of spending too much money over the festive period with the upshot being that, after the splurge, we start off the new year with a cash flow that is often reduced to a very unimpressive trickle.

So if you had any suit shopping plans for the start of 2020, there’s perhaps nothing quite as depressing as trying to salvage said plans on a virtually non-existent budget.

But fear not because help is at hand, with some of our bestselling suits now available to hire for almost every occasion, guaranteeing that you’ll look the part you need to play without having to break open your piggy bank.

SO WHAT STYLE OF SUIT SHOULD I HIRE FOR MY JOB INTERVIEW?

There’s a lot to be said for dressing for the job you want, which is why hiring a suit might just be the smartest move you can make. If you’re levelling up, your current wardrobe might not match your career aspirations. Our advice? The Performance suit is a workhorse when it comes to that round of job interviews you’ve managed to get lined up.

Yes, it’s plain and simple but it’s water-repellant, crease-proof and stain-resistant to boot. In fact, it’s the holy trinity of all that you could want from a suit when you’re set on making that vital first impression.

HIRE PERFORMANCE SUIT

Alternatively, if you’re in the market for a suit that has a little more styling brio then look no further than the Moss 1851 navy black check. Keep this patterned suit stripped back and you’ll stand out for all the right reasons.

Also worth remembering: hiring a suit comes with major eco-credentials, because if you only ever intend to wear it for your job interview, then you’re already taking a step back from our throw-away culture without even trying.

HIRE NAVY BLACK CHECK

WHAT IF I’VE BEEN INVITED TO LOTS OF WEDDINGs THIS YEAR?

If the wedding invites are already beginning to stack up then you might already be mentally calculating the cost of all those outfits. You’ve got two options: you can invest in a suit that you’ll style differently the whole season, or you can take the opportunity to hire your look and have something new to wear to every time without the guilt of one-use wear.

With its thicker (read: warmer) fabric, our Donegal suit is ideal for early spring nuptials. Not only will you look particularly on-point, but you’ll also be well-prepped against the UK’s notoriously inclement weather.

And if you’re lucky enough to be heading somewhere warm or are one of those chaps that never seems to feel the cold, the lightweight Moss London neutral suit hits the sophisticated-wedding-guest bullseye, especially when worn in tandem with a pastel shirt and matching tie.

HIRE DONEGAL
HIRE NEUTRAL

BUT I’M PLANNING MY OWN WEDDING AND HAVE TO KIT OUT ALL OF MY GROOMSMEN

If you’re actually having to organise your own wedding and have generously offered to dress your groomsmen, then hiring their suits will definitely help your pennies go further.

One of our most popular suits, the Moss London sage herringbone is a real crowd-pleaser and its soft shade will suit pretty much everyone. Style it with neutral floral shirts while matching the colour of the tie with the pocket square. Pale pinks and blues will set off sage nicely.

HIRE SAGE HERRINGBONE

I’VE GOT AN IMPORTANT MEETING BUT I DON’T USUALLY WEAR A SUIT TO WORK

With that make-or-break work pitch looming on the horizon it goes without saying that you want to make an impact professionally. But what if your usual weekday wardrobe is decidedly too casual? Here’s where hiring comes into its own: you get to look the part in front of that potential new client, without shelling out on kit you’re not sure you’ll wear again. Our grey twill three-piece has all the hallmarks of a suit that means big business. All you need do is wear it with a crisp white shirt.

And if you win the pitch and need to maintain your new professional appearance? Well, you know where we are.

HIRE GREY TWILL
GO TO HIRE COLLECTION

Posted January 14th, 2020 in Hire-Occasions.

How to fit your pre-tied bow tie

It’s easy when you know how.

Man in perfectly fitting pre-tied bow tie and tuxedo.

IT’S EASY WHEN YOU KNOW HOW

• WORDS: C. STEWART

When you’ve got a big event to get ready for, the last thing you need is the added stress of fiddling around with your accessories.

If you’re not confident in tying your own bow tie, then a pre-tied bow tie will speed the process up. By ‘pre-tied’, it means the bow is already in place, but you still have to adjust the neck strap to fit you snugly. A droopy bow tie will ruin the lines of your sharp eveningwear, so here’s how to fit yours like a pro.

Annotated diagram of the different components of a pre-tied bow tie.

First of all, a quick meet-the-tools guide. Clip A is a T-shaped bar at the end of the strap that goes into the slots on the back of the strap to adjust the fit. Clip B is a movable bar on the strap that you’ll connect to clip C, a hook on the back of the bow itself.

Succession of images displaying how to fit and tie a pre-tied bow tie.

STEP BY STEP
    1. Take clip A and fold the bow tie’s strap back on itself to a length that will fit snugly around your neck, with clip B at the end
    2. Fix the length by sliding clip A into one of the slots on the back of the strap
    3. Hook clip B onto clip C to secure your bow tie – if it’s too loose or tight, move clip A into a neighbouring slot to adjust the fit

Once your bow tie’s on, adjust its sides and plump them out a little. A flat bow tie is a sure giveaway that it’s pre-tied. There’s no shame in a pre-tied bow tie but a little artful illusion never hurt anyone.

Posted December 1st, 2019 in Expertise, Hire-Occasions.

Two ways to style prom

Hire your suit, own your look.

TWO WAYS TO STYLE PROM

HIRE YOUR SUIT, OWN YOUR LOOK
• WORDS: A. FOZZARD

When your teachers throw out the rulebook for a night, the last thing you want is to feel like you’re wearing a uniform. Yes, there are some black-tie rules you should probably stick to, but with a hire suit as your base, there are plenty of ways to show your personality with your styling.

Here are two ways to make a black-tie prom look your own.

THE CLASSIC LOOK

A traditional tuxedo has peak or shawl lapels and satin details, making it feel more special than your usual suit. It’s best to hire one, as you could well grow out of it before you have another black-tie do.

According to the rulebook, you should complete your tux with a cummerbund, white dress shirt, bow tie and white pocket square in a straight fold. But rules were made to be broken, which is why lots of guys switch out the cummerbund for a waistcoat. You’ll still have a seamless, formal finish, but in a slightly more relaxed way.

Ramp up the personality by choosing a large bow tie or a pocket square in a rich colour, like orange, khaki or deep blue. You can also hire accessories, but there is more choice when you buy them, giving you more room to be adventurous. Plus, you can keep them as mementoes.

THE LAIDBACK LOOK

There is a way to do prom in a more relaxed way while still looking the part for the event.

Hire a more simple black tux with notch lapels for a more casual take on the dress code. Make it fit for the event by wearing a white dress shirt (contrasting tuxedo stud buttons or hidden buttons look streamlined). Then complete your outfit with a dress scarf worn loosely under your jacket. They come in all sorts of colours, from classic white and black to more on-trend navy and wine hues.

Choose a classic white pocket square in a straight fold or mix up your look even more with one in a puff fold and a colour that contrasts your scarf.

WATCH YOUR SOCKS

Okay, here’s one rule you must follow, whichever suit you choose: you must think carefully about your socks. Make sure they won’t clash with your suit or accessory choice, as they’ll be on show when you sit down. If in doubt, you can’t go wrong with plain black. Or if you’re wearing trousers with a tapered ankle, you can go for loafers with no socks at all.

HIRE PROM TUXEDOS

Posted April 30th, 2019 in Hire-Black-Tie, Hire-Occasions.

Two ways to fold a pocket square

Master the art of the fold.

How to fold a pocket square

MASTER THE ART OF THE FOLD
• WORDS: C. STEWART

Tucking a folded square into your top pocket is one of the easiest ways to take your look from so-so to sharp.It may be a small detail, but this small accessory had grand beginnings in China during the Chou dynasty. It’s since been used as everything from a way to flaunt social class to something to stop people wiping their nose on their sleeves in Richard II’s day. We have tissues for that sort of thing now so your pocket square is – thankfully – just a stylish touch to round off a tailored look.Here are two ways you can fold yours.

HOW TO FOLD POCKET SQUARE: A STRAIGHT FOLD
  1. Lay the square on a flat surface.
  2. Fold the square in half.
  3. Then fold it into thirds.
  4. Tuck into your pocket with about 1cm of the folded edge showing at the top.

Diagram showing how to straight fold a pocket square.

HOW TO FOLD A POCKET SQUARE: A PUFF FOLD
  1. Lay the square on a flat surface.
  2. Pinch the square in the middle.
  3. Then twist about half way down.
  4. Tuck into your pocket.

Diagram showing how to puff fold a pocket square.

SOME FINAL POINTERS
Fabric

Choosing the right material is important but not crucial – it all depends on what look you’re going for. Cotton squares are the most popular and generally have the most contemporary designs. Linen squares add great texture and look great in the warmer months. Silk squares look sophisticated when puff-folded into your breast pocket.

Colour

There are no hard and fast rules for which colours to use, but it’s worth keeping in mind that the traditionalists among us prefer a white pocket square for business suits. Blue and pastel colours will do the job just as well, though. Best to save your bright patterns for evenings or a special occasion. Your pocket square should contrast with your tie rather than match it as well as complement the colour of your shirt. If you’re feeling brave, go for a pattern clash.

SHOP POCKET SQUARES

Posted December 14th, 2018 in Expertise, Hire-Occasions.

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