What will grooms be wearing in 2019? Menswear specialist Alexandra Wood gives guidance on options, whether you’re going for trad tails or laidback separates
There’s a definite move towards more variety in groomswear, says Alexandra Wood, who offers made-to-measure, bespoke and hire suits and separates for grooms and wedding guests. And she’s got lots of advice for mastering the more relaxed take on wedding-day dressing favoured by more and more grooms.
Suit or separates?
Alexandra says there’s a distinct split between suits and separates. This is in part influenced by the more informal nature of some celebrations (and the increase in destination weddings). “And the other factor is the huge influence from Italy. Last year the Pitti Uomo trade fair showed contrasting jacket and trousers as an alternative to the traditional suit.” Even so, adds Alexandra, opting for separates can be a moot point for some grooms’ partners. “It’s important to look like the groom, not a cool day-tripper.” Separates require as much care as a suit – a well tailored double-breasted or slim-fit jacket and carefully contrasted tailored trousers, perhaps worn with smart Italian loafers.
Mixing things up
Suits remain the safe and always smart choice – with an appropriate style for all occasions, whether you opt for bespoke, made-to-measure or hire. Tails are solid choice at more formal weddings but Alexandra recommends you consider mixing things up, perhaps a navy jacket, rather than traditional black or grey. Combining navy tails with a contrasting slim-cut trouser in black herringbone is another sure-fire way to give the most conventional of daywear looks a more contemporary twist.
Vintage takes
The dinner suit is an alternative take on formal groom dressing, and hugely popular, says Alexandra. Recent alternatives on traditional black she’s tailored for grooms include an elegant midnight blue dinner suit – a flattering colour and the perfect alternative for a summer wedding. She also reports lots of interest in contemporary-cut pale tweed suits for weddings, perhaps inspired by the popularity of laidback and vintage-style wedding venues. Here, a sharp and slimline cut is crucial to ensure the look feels modern.
Choosing colour
Blue lounge suits have become something of a wedding-day classic – and with good reason, as they are universally flattering. But Alexandra encourages bolder choices, perhaps adding a contrasting waistcoat, well-chosen tie or vibrant pocket square. She remains passionate about putting more colour into tailoring – both for weddings and business wear. “We always ask our grooms a series of questions to try and help them find the right style, taking into account the venue, wedding colours, their personal style and how they would like to look on the day. Whatever the style of wedding, there are opportunities to inject personality and individuality into tailoring.”
Alexandra Wood
With locations in Savile Row, London and Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire, Alexandra Wood offers bespoke and made-to-measure tailoring and wardrobe consultancy. For more information, visit alexandrawoodbespoke.co.uk
MORE INSPIRATION FOR GROOMSWEAR?
