Wherever a wedding falls on the calendar, it’ll always influence what you wear. But when that wedding falls in the middle of a worldwide health pandemic? Well, it’s likely to look different from what you originally had planned.

For all the couples out there, we know it’s been tough. Maybe you’ve postponed your big day so it can be more like the day you’d imagined, or maybe you’re keen to just be married already and so you’ve scaled down your plans to meet the current guidelines. The important thing to remember is it’s not a matter of ‘if’ but just a matter of ‘when’. And whenever that is, you deserve to look and feel your best.

As for guests, your social calendar is almost certainly much emptier this year, so if you’re lucky enough to still be on the receiving end of an invitation, the very least you can do is make an effort worthy of the people who love you enough to have you join them.

Here’s our take on what grooms and guests should wear to weddings now that celebrating is back on the order of service.

Having a micro wedding ceremony now with plans for a bigger do next year? Or taking advantage of good weather to get a few more guests together at an outdoor venue? Either way, the theme of the day is probably low-key and on the intimate side, so you’ll want to wear something with a similarly relaxed feel. A suit or tailored jacket in a summer-ready fabric like linen will emit a carefree vibe (even if the last few months have been anything but) as well as keep you cool if the sun does decide to shine.

SHOP LINEN SUITS

As for colour, traditionally, the less formal the wedding the lighter your suit could be. But if Britain’s handling of Covid-19 has taught us anything, it’s that rules are yours to interpret (ahem) so we say wear whatever shade is going to make you feel your best.

Couples getting married this winter might find that there are still restrictions in the number of guests allowed, but you know what can’t be restricted? Your dress code. We’re seeing lots of couples planning November and December weddings going all out with black-tie celebrations. And it makes sense: after being stuck indoors for so long, this might be the first chance you and your chosen guests all have to get together and celebrate in style.

SHOP TUXEDOS

So what to wear? You’ll need a tuxedo, of course. You won’t go wrong with a classic black, peak lapel style with all the black-tie trimmings (dress shirt, bow tie, cufflinks). But you’ll also never get a finer moment for a luxurious velvet jacket than a winter wedding party. Wear yours with pristinely pressed dress trousers and high-shine shoes. Like the look but less keen on the limelight? Try a velvet bow-tie instead.

Whether you’re attending a friend’s nuptials via the internet or you’ve made the cut on a cut-down guestlist, suffice to say the couple’s wedding is probably not how they envisioned it, so do your part and dress up to make it feel more like a wedding should.

If you’re looking forward to rolling out the three-piece, by all means, go for it. But you might feel the mood is a bit less formal in current circumstances, in which case well-tailored separates are your answer. A great jacket is suitably pulled-together over anything – try it over a waistcoat, a printed shirt or even a t-shirt, depending on the feel of the day.

As for your bottom half, by now we’ve all had enough of the suited-up-top, comedy-underwear-below video-call gag. Save the cheesy laughs for the speeches and keep your full look wedding-ready, even if nobody else ever sees it. Go for a great pair of tailored trousers, perhaps with a hint of stretch so they’ll be comfy while you’re sitting through the ceremony.

And one more thing: if you are attending in person, remember you’re there to spread love and not germs, so the advice is to wear a face mask. Might we suggest using yours to accessorise your look?

Got wee ones in your wedding party? Or maybe your boy is part of a small family-only gathering? We could all do with a reason to smile these days, not least couples who’ve had their wedding plans disrupted, so get the little guy doing his smile-inducing duty with the irresistible combination of cute kid + tiny suit. He’ll be the star of the (socially-distanced) show.

SHOP BOYS SUITS

Our kids’ collection is cut in the same clean lines as the adults’ versions, proportioned to fit children age two up to 11. Get him a boys’ three-piece suit in grey or black that’ll be useful beyond the big day or kit him out in something more seasonal like tweed. Style it simply with a white shirt, or do your best to convince him to wear a tie that tones in with the theme of the day. Let’s be honest, it’ll only be on for the photos anyway.

Like it or not, it’s almost that time of year again when the party season will soon be in full swing. If you’re feeling especially bah-humbug about the whole thing, some of these shindigs you’ll be able to swerve, others maybe not. But what there’s no escaping, if your chosen knees-up demands it, is that you’re going to be the most dressed-up you’ve probably been all year. All of which means you’ll have to find something to wear that has a little more bite than your usual day-to-day suit.

SO WHAT SHOULD BE MY PARTY FABRIC OF CHOICE?

One particular fabric that will tick all of your party season boxes and was once traditionally the reserve of royalty, is velvet. Thankfully, in these slightly more egalitarian times, velvet no longer holds such lofty connotations. And perhaps most surprising of all for such a luxe fabric, it can be worn in any number of ways, proving its versatility to boot.

CAN I WEAR VELVET TO A BLACK TIE EVENT?

You most definitely can, and indeed should. For any formal events, break the mould and switch your tried-and-tested black tuxedo for one in claret or chocolate velvet. Not only will you be adding all of the extra bells and whistles needed at this time of year, but you’ll also be dialling up that old-school glamour too. All that’s required of you is a guarantee that your velvet tux is cut on the slim side and that you’re primed and ready to step in and play at being James Bond should the occasion require it. Vodka Martinis are entirely optional.

BUT WILL WEARING VELVET MAKE ME THE CENTRE OF ATTENTION?

Almost certainly. And if you’re something of a shrinking violet, one major downside to wearing velvet is that many of your fellow party guests will, without doubt, want to stroke you as the night wears on. The solution? Never forget that the devil is always in the details and the addition of a simple velvet bow tie worn with a more traditional tux will still more than pass muster.

WHAT IF MY PARTY ISN’T BLACK TIE?

If your soirée doesn’t require the above amount of swish, then you could always wear your velvet jacket as a separate instead. Break up your look with a lambswool roll-neck sweater. Or go one step further and wear it over a jazzy printed shirt. Finish your outfit off with your finest pair of black denim jeans and shoes, safe in the knowledge that your velvet jacket will make whatever else you’re wearing swankier by association.

All of which goes to show, that whatever velvet combo you decide upon, it’s the golden ticket when dressing for any parties you have pencilled into your diary. Just remember two things: arrive fashionably late and don’t hog the karaoke machine.

So you’re keen to get the groom something special to send him happily on his next chapter, but aren’t sure exactly what’s befitting of such a big moment? You’re not alone. As far as gifts go, groom presents are a tricky one, but if you’re looking for a men’s wedding gift, you’ve come to the right place. With a long history of outfitting men for their big day, we know a thing or two about what grooms want, so here’s how to nail it. 

First thing’s first, if there’s a gift register – get your hands on it and take a good, hard look. While a groom gift is typically a separate offering to your wedding gift, the gift register will often give a vibe that you can use for inspiration.  

Pay attention to the aesthetic, the couple will have curated it carefully. Did they go for the minimalist crockery set or something a little more fun? This is stylistic information that will prove useful in your quest to find the best gift for the groom. 

Something that speaks to their personal sense of style is always a sensible choice. It’s the best way to show him you know him, while giving a gift that he’ll really enjoy using. 

Ties are the perfect vehicle for delivering a personalised touch because they come in so many different styles and patterns—there’s bound to be one he identifies with, whether it’s a plain silk or knitted tie for the traditional groom, or a floral tie for the more extravagant. 

Weddings are one of the few occasions where you can get away with being overly sentimental, so gifts with meaning are a go-to. We like the symbolism of a gift that will last a lifetime—after all, love is eternal. 

Accessories are great for this—particularly leather goods. As typically practical items, a good leather accessory like a bag or belt, will stand the groom in good stead for many years to come while taking pride of place in their everyday carry. 

SHOP LEATHER BAGS

Cufflinks are a great option too. Though the groom may not wear them every day, cufflinks bring with them a sense of occasion. They’re something the groom can put on when special occasions arise, and do so while being reminded of his big day. Gift them before he officially ties the knot, and he may even wear them down the aisle. 

SHOP CUFFLINKS

If you’re in the groom’s inner circle, one of the best gifts you can give him is to show up for the wedding looking the part. A high quality wedding guest suit from Moss will ensure you win best dressed. 

If you’re a parent, consider helping them out with a custom made wedding suit for their big day. The question of what to wear is one of the biggest stressors for any groom, so sorting it for them with something bespoke will have them feeling confident as you give them away in style. 

Why not gift memories that the couple will treasure forever with an experience that they can both enjoy together? From Michelin-star dining to short city breaks or romantic carriage rides, there’s something for every couple. A romantic first-anniversary dinner at a fancy restaurant or even a weekend away at a boutique hotel will both be really appreciated when the wedding buzz has faded.

Dissertation done and exams complete, only one important thing left to do before you don your cap and gown, graduate and head off into the real world – the grad ball.

Depending on your university, your grad ball will take place in May or June. Each uni does it a bit differently, but the dress code is always ‘dress to impress’. Whether you want to go for something timelessly stylish or a show-stopping statement suit, the memories (and photos) can last a lifetime. That’s why it’s so important to avoid the possibility of sartorial disaster. Fortunately, we’re here to help you get it right.

Opting for a dinner suit is a great choice if you want to go for something timeless. The most important tip when wearing this style of suit is to keep things simple. Classic black-tie outfits look best tailored to perfection, so speak to one of our store staff who can help with alterations. Alternatively, reward all of your hard work with a bespoke suit crafted for you in just 30 days with our Tailor Me service.

There aren’t many occasions where you can wear a bow tie these days, so why not make the most of the opportunity? Pre-tied bow ties are great for effortlessly pulling together a formal look – we have plenty to choose from. However, if you really want to push the boat out, go for one of our silk self-tie bow ties. Use our six-step guide to master the technique and you’ll stand out as the guy who knows what he’s doing.

Grad ball is a celebration so there’s room to have a bit of fun and show off your personality with your outfit. The term ‘statement suit’ doesn’t necessarily refer to something glittery and flared, complete with sequins and contrast lapels. Well, it could, but we’re talking more along the lines of well-tailored party suit. If you’re feeling bold, choose matching trousers and pair your suit with an understated shirt and accessories to keep your suit the focus point. Alternatively, try teaming your party jacket with a pair of well-cut black trousers and a pair of smart dress shoes.

If it’s good enough for HRH Prince Harry, it’s good enough for you. A velvet dinner jacket is a great way to elevate your look. Team one of our velvet jackets with a pair of well-cut trousers and a smart button-down shirt. When choosing your shirt and accessories, go for a plain colours to set off your velvet jacket. Finish off your look with a smart pair of patent leather shoes for a show-stopping grad ball option.

You’ve got the suit now make sure you look polished from head to toe on the big day with Ted’s grooming advice. After all, you want to dazzle the bride and make a good impression in the photos that’ll last forever.

We all feel great when we catch our reflection after getting a dapper do, so make sure this is how you feel when you look at the millions of wedding photos you’re sure to feature in. Ted recommends getting a haircut the week before your wedding, giving it time to look not-too-done while still looking fresh. Make sure to ask the barber for some styling tips. Remember, if you try new products make sure you practise before the big day – no one wants to look back on photos thinking ‘what did I do?’.

Ask yourself, when are you happiest with your facial hair? Right after a fresh shave? The day after? Three days after? Ted’s top advice is to look sleek, but most of all, look like yourself. He also suggests getting the groomsmen together for a tidy up, hot towel, massage and ear flaming a day before the wedding. Ted’s on Mortimer Street is the perfect spot, accommodating four gents at a time in his appointment lounge. Complimentary drinks are also included.

IN SHAPE

FACE OFF

A well-tailored prom suit or tuxedo goes a long way to make a man look his sharpest, but menswear stylists also always have a few tricks up their sleeves to make sure models look immaculate on set.

So, in the interest of sharing, we asked our stylists for a few of their favourites that’ll help sort the men from the boys on prom night.

So here’s the thing: classic menswear rules say you should always have your shirt tucked into your trousers, but this is prom and you should dress however makes you feel most like you. If you want your shirt worn casual and untucked, go for it. Really.

But, if you do decide to go for the pulled-together look, the trick to a flawless finish is to tuck your shirt not only into your trousers but right into your underwear too. Sounds weird, might feel a bit weird, but trust us, it works.

Talk to any tailor and you’ll hear them throw around the word ‘break’ when they’re talking about your trousers. This is where your trouser hem meets your shoe. With a tailored fit, your hem should just brush the top of your shoe. On a skinny fit, your hem will barely clip your shoe. Gone for an on-trend cropped trouser? Your hem will be nowhere near your shoe.

Bonus option: roll your hem a couple of times for a more casual vibe that works particularly well with a pair of trainers.

This one covers both your jacket cuff and your shirt cuff and it goes like this: your jacket cuff should sit at your wrist bone and your shirt cuff should be about 2.5cm longer. This is mostly designed so your shirt cuffs help to frame your suit, but is also a nice way to show off a cracking pair of cufflinks too.

If there’s one tailoring rule you need to know, it’s this: never fasten the bottom button of your jacket or waistcoat. The story goes this came from King Edward VII – not because he was the most stylish man of his day, but because he got too fat to fasten his bottom button. Because he was King, everyone else followed suit and to this day it’s the mark of a well-dressed man.

The rules for a one-button jacket are a little different (seeing as the top button is also the bottom button) so if you’re wearing it on its own, wear it buttoned while standing and undone when you sit down. If you’ve got a waistcoat underneath, undo your jacket and wear your waistcoat buttoned up, except for the last button.

If you wear a tie for school, you’ve probably got the four-in-hand knot (also known as the schoolboy knot) down, but to look like a man of the world, there are two styling tricks to check off before you head out.

First, length. The tip of your tie needs to touch your waistband. Not stop above it, not sit below it, but right at it. Second, meet the tie dimple. This is the artful little fold that adds depth and character to your tie. There’s a bit of a knack to it, but it’s achieved by pinching the fabric of your tie inside the tie knot just before you pull it through it for the last time. This should create a small dimple that will get held in place as you tighten your tie’s knot. Practise, as always, makes perfect.

Prom is a rite of passage in lots of ways, but it’s also really likely to be your first time buying a suit. If that’s true, you’re probably a bit unsure of what it is you actually want.

Whether you’re new to suit-buying or you’ve done this before, any questions you might have about which prom suit to buy will fall under four areas: fit, style, occasion and price. Get them all right, and you’re on to a winner.

So let’s break them down, shall we?

Getting the right fit is your number one priority – consider it your framework that everything else hangs on. Our in-store suit experts are on-hand to take your measurements and we also offer alterations through all of our stores.

But it’s not as simple as just getting the right size – it’s also important to be realistic about which fit will work best for your frame. If you’ve got broad shoulders and a narrow waist you’ll look great in our tailored fit, however, if you’re slim-framed with slim limbs, then you’ll pull off a skinny fit or slim fit.

Whatever fit you go for, your suit should sit flat on the chest and shoulders. Not too wide and not too tight. For a tailored look, your jacket length should end by the middle of your thumb when your arms are by your side, while a skinny or more trend-led jacket will be cut a little shorter. Read how to get the right fit for a detailed look at each of our fits and step-by-steps to measure for a suit.

This is where seasonal trends and personal taste come into play, but it can be daunting if you’re new to the game or not sure what you’re looking for. If you need some guidance, looking at what our in-store suit experts are wearing is a great place to start. Who better to give you advice than someone who wears a suit day-in and day-out?

Our suit experts are also a great source to find out what other guys are wearing too. Ask them what’s selling in-store at the moment to get a good idea of what’s popular. For example, blue suiting is our most asked-for but pastel colours are a big trend this season. If you’re not quite into head-to-toe pastel pink, try adding in louder colours and prints with your accessories instead.

Don’t be afraid to come in with ideas you’ve seen on Instagram or in magazines – the more you share with us, the more we can help you. Sharing what you like or what inspires you can be the difference between simply a stylish suit and an outfit that makes you look and feel your very best.

If anything influences the kind of suit you should be buying, where you’re going to wear it is a key thing to consider. In your case it’s prom and this is actually the most freedom you’ll ever have to wear something that you can really shine in.

Feeling bold? Go all out in a pastel-hued suit or take your look a step further in a double-breasted style. Traditionally the uniform of bankers, the double-breasted suit has been reimagined for life outside the City in slimmer fits and standout cloths.

If you’re a more understated kind of guy, you’ll never go wrong with a dinner suit or prom tuxedo with classic black satin lapels.

It’s best to be honest with any budget you have in mind. As a prom go-er buying your first suit, you might not have finished growing yet so there’s no point blowing your budget on something that might not fit for very long. If your budget is tight, think about buying a versatile two-piece suit that’ll look great styled up with accessories for prom, but also work dialled down for all those interviews you’ll have to go to now you’re a man of the world.

We’ve got a wide range to pick from including our own-brand labels like Moss, as well as leading brands including Ted Baker, French Connection and DKNY, so there’s something to suit every style and every wallet.

If you are keen to make an entrance but still need to keep an eye on costs, you can also think about hiring a suit for the night. Our prom hire collection includes modern lounge suits starting from just £52.

And that’s it: your guide to shopping for a prom suit like a pro. Ready to get started? Get down to your nearest store or take a look at what’s new in online.