Now that the initial panic of finding my wedding dress is over, the next job on the ever-growing 'To Do' list was to suit and boot the groom. Not needing to wear a suit for work, my fiance Gus has been holding off buying a new one until he had the perfect excuse for a beautiful, tailored-made suit. So off we went to
Crane Brothers for a fitting with the best in town, Murray Crane. And my goodness, were we looked after well. A fitting at Crane Brothers makes you feel a bit like how I imagine the Royals do when they get garments made-to-measure. The service was impeccable as was the much needed advice on what style, fabric, lining and buttons to choose. Who knew selecting a suit was so much more than just choosing 'the black one please.' You even have the choice of deciding whether you want belt-loops or not, which for two indecisive people was a particularly tricky one!
To help choose a suit that will stand the test of time well beyond our wedding, I asked Murray what's important when it comes to buying an occassion suit, both in terms of style, quality and longevity. Here's his advice:
When it comes to buying an occasion suit, what are three things you should keep in mind when purchasing?
Versatility, durability, and longevity. Remember that you’ll be looking back at photos in 20 years time; therefore get something that you love and play it safe. You will then have a suit you will want to wear time and time again.
What would you say is the current fashion for grooms?
Navy blue suits are still prominent, as well as shorter coats but we are starting to see the silhouette loosen up and become fuller allowing the cloth to drape more. Suits need to fit well, with the right amount of drape and balance.
How long should a good suit last you?
A good suit will last as long as you want to wear it. Men’s styling does change over time but is a slow transition, if you buy a well-cut suit in a perennial style – it will remain timeless.
Is it possible to buy a suit that will always remain in fashion? If so, what is a classic style of suit that will never date?
Yes. A two-button, side vented, perennial style or a tuxedo. Something dark in colour, with not too much pattern.
What's the biggest faux-pas a groom could make when it comes to choosing a suit?
Don't buy a suit that is too in the moment. Stay away from high fashion trends if you want the suit to stand the test of time: short jackets, too skinny or too cropped trousers will all date very quickly. Buying a good suit is an investment, like all sound investments they need to last.
Should the groom match his attire to the bride or bridal party?
The groom should complement the bride. It is important to not obsess over having everything matching, but rather complementary in look and colours. This can be achieved by small accents such as a tie or a pocket-handkerchief.
Is there any other etiquette that a groom should know about when it comes to wearing a suit on his wedding day?
Make sure everything is neat and tidy. Ensure you’re wearing clean socks, polished shoes; tie knot is nice and straight; cuffs are the correct length. For photos, get someone to check you beforehand. Tell your photographer how you want to look, so they can point out if something is not right.
Milly. xx
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All images supplied by Crane Brothers
