Guys: How to enjoy the festive season in style
With the party season just around the corner, so too is the annual dilemma of finding the perfect outfit to wear.
Here, Ketan Jethwa, creative director of the sixth generation bespoke tailoring business, Tailoring UK, explains why it can be just as much of a predicament for men as it is for women, and offers his advice on how to dress to impress.
The run-up to Christmas can certainly be a busy period, with many different kinds of parties to attend. From formal corporate occasions, to more relaxed drinks receptions and dinner parties with friends, the list of events is often endless.
Getting ready for a party was once a fairly simple task for men. With one stock suit saved for best, the choice wasn’t really that taxing. However, with men now spending more on clothes than ever before, the need to look your best is more important than ever.
For more informal gatherings, I always advise that you can’t go far wrong with a simple single-breasted, two-piece suit. When it comes to colour, keep it simple and appropriate. Black, navy or charcoal will always look effective and tasteful, and I would suggest opting for a plain, uncomplicated cloth – remember, pinstripes should really be saved for the office!
It sounds like simple advice, but make sure that the suit fits, is clean and is ironed. There’s nothing worse than turning heads for the wrong reasons in an ill-fitting, crumpled suit. Also, if you have pets, it’s well worth spending a couple of minutes going over your outfit with a lint roller, or even some sticky tape, to avoid unsightly cat and dog hairs.
Of course, you need to remember that it’s a party and that you don’t want to appear too understated or corporate. Use your choice of shirt to inject a bit of individuality by opting for a splash of colour or pattern, with stripes or checks usually best. If you’re wearing a tie, again go for something colourful, but make sure that it complements both your suit and shirt.
I always have one word of warning when it comes to Christmas parties – avoid the temptation for novelty clothing! You can be wearing the very best, tailored suit and looking a million dollars until you unbutton the jacket to reveal a garish, Christmas-themed shirt, complete with novelty musical tie!
When it comes to formal events, such as festive balls or large corporate gatherings, a dinner suit is likely to be more appropriate. It’s certainly a classic option and, as long as it’s well fitted, you will always look the part. The only problem is that every male guest can end up looking exactly the same.
You may want to think about adding some simple features and details to help you stand out from the crowd. A full colour lining, flash cuffs and functional buttonholes will all help to create that all-important wow factor. With regard to the shirt, it’s fairly standard to opt for a classic collar worn with a regular tie, or a wing collar with bow tie, but consider going for a shirt with a bit of unique detailing to make it truly original.
It can sometimes be difficult to achieve that level of detail and individuality when buying off the peg, high street ranges, so you may want to go for the tailored option. That way you can be sure of the perfect fit and bespoke finishes.
If you take time to plan and invest wisely in quality garments, you are bound to see out the party season in style and have outfits that can be worn time and again, solving the wardrobe dilemma when the Christmas party invitations drop through the door or into your inbox.
For further advice from Ketan, visit: tailoringsuits.co.uk
