Formal Attire - An Easy Affair?
Formal attire isn’t just about dressing smarter than usual, it is much much more.
Throughout our lives certain events crop up giving us the chance to “dress up”. Whether it is a wedding, business dinner, prom, a knighthood or trip to Royal Ascot, attending this type of event more often than not dictate a certain dress code based on etiquette.
Now the next question is do you really go for it or make do? Within the men’s formal wear industry you will find companies offering the correct outfits for such formal events but the choice can be a tad disappointing. This may not be just lack of suit style choice or a limited colour range, often the words “suit hire” can mean cheap fabrics or boring suit designs.
I believe that we plod along day after day in our casual gear or our typical work suit, so why not really go for it and smarten up when you can? In addition, if you wear or buy “decent clothing” would you hire something the quality of which you wouldn’t wish on your worst enemy?
I say dress up, not down. In addition dress correctly. The formal wear store of your choice should be knowledgeable about the correct outfit for any formal event. If not steer clear. Any question about the style of outfit you should wear for the function that you have been invited to can be answered by looking at your invite, calling the venue or indeed, if a wedding, talking to the bride or groom.
You may think that any old morning suit or lounge suit will do or feel that they are “all the same”. Think again. As mentioned, typical hire is often made out of thick durable fabrics, polyester waistcoats and shirts that resemble a duvet cover. Sound good for a summer wedding? NO. The odd company, usually independent formal wear stores, do try and offer a difference. Lightweight fabrics are obviously more comfortable to wear but pure natural fabrics are also more comfortable. Typically more expensive than a national company but what price do you put on comfort and look?
Article by Groomswear Specialist Steve Bishop
Images Courtesy of Hugh Harris
