Weddings
Traditionally morning suits have been worn
to weddings, often with top hat and gloves and black and grey striped trousers,
however this code has relaxed over the years and it is quite acceptable to wear
anything from a tailcoat, three quarter frock coat, Prince Edward style jacket
to a lounge suit. Waistcoats should generally have the bottom button unfastened
for a stylish look.
The
emphasis should be on co-ordination. We recommend that a bridegroom liases with
the bride in case she would like to match any of the bridal parties colours with
the grooms party. For instance The groom might wear a cravat or waistcoat that
matches the bridesmaid dress colour or perhaps the colour of the bouquet that
the bride will be holding.
There are no hard and fast rules. We would
suggest, however, that the groom has some detail or other about his outfit that
makes him stand out from the best man and other groomsmen. This is to avoid the
groom merging into the group in the photos.
Black
Tie
It is normal to wear a dinner jacket
(with black satin lapels) and black fabric covered buttons and dress trousers
(with a black satin stripe on the side of each leg). The choice of cut is a personal
one, whether it be single or double-breasted, one, two, or three buttons etc.
A waistcoat may be worn or perhaps a cummerbund (never both together). Some choose
not to wear either. Most functions allow personal choice in this matter.
A
dress shirt should be worn. This either has hidden buttons or a decorative style
of stud instead of buttons (often black or mother of pearl). There are varying
collar styles available.
A traditional approach would be to wear it with
a normal collar, however many men now prefer a wing or victorian wing collar.
Some prefer not to wear a tie, but rather wear a nehru (manderin) collarless style
with a decorative stud where the tie would normally be worn. Shirts can be plain
fronted or pleat fronted (personal taste).
Black tie has traditionally
meant a black bow tie. In recent times, however, plain black standard ties have
also become fashionable although they can look somewhat funereal. Self-tie bow
ties are considered the more stylish option, however a pre-tied bow will not stand
out at most formal occasions.
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Many
functions now allow a relaxed 'black tie' code, coloured waistcoats, bow ties
and cummerbunds have become more widespread. If you need to play safe, always
stick to classic black and white.
White Tuxedos are traditionally worn
in hot climates. This rule seems to be relaxing in the UK, but if you are attending
a more sophisticated function, you might choose not to wear one.
White
Tie
White tie is reserved for the most formal of occasions such as
state functions. White tie demands a white bow tie, stiff white dress shirt, white
marcella waistcoat (all buttons fastened) and a black dinner jacket with tails
, white handkerchief and black formal trousers. Fancy bow ties or waistcoats are
not an option. Confomity is normally very important at such events.
Buckingham
Palace Invitations / Ceremonies, Royal Garden Parties, Trooping the Colour, and
important memorial services.
The dress requirement is strict and traditional
rules have remained in place. Morning coats must be either black or grey. Waistcoats
should be plain grey with a white shirt, with no decorations. A grey or black
top hat is also often compulsory.
Ascot
The dress code at Royal Ascot falls into two categories. If you are attending
the Royal Enclosure, only black or grey morning dress with the top hat or service
dress is acceptable for gentlemen. Guests who are not in the Royal Enclosure normally
wear either a lounge suit or morning wear.
Henley Regatta
Stewards Enclosure:Lounge Suits or Blazers and Flannels with shirt and tie
(Images
courtesy of Etiquette Formal Hire) |
