TOM FORD

The Tailoring Boutique
A cornerstone of every man’s wardrobe, suiting is a fundamental yet sometimes daunting matter. All the more reason to approach your tailoring collection and care regime with confidence. Consider this an education in elegance.



While formal dress codes have evolved with changing times, classic tuxedos remain a cornerstone of elevated partywear. For black- or white-tie invitations, they’re obligatory. Here, a conservative palette is most apt – exemplified by TOM FORD, where satin-trimmed sets and statement dinner jackets speak only of debonair. Polo Ralph Lauren offers a subtler take that’s equal parts handsome and effortless. For a final flourish? A cummerbund and bow tie, naturally.



Almost guaranteed to flatter, slim-fit suits are most versatile. While tapered fits were once taboo in the workplace, today, closer-cut shoulders, shorter jackets and a little sock on show are as customary in business as in pleasure. Careerists and socialites alike, look to Zegna, where blazers and trousers benefit from couture-inspired craft. For a peppier ensemble, Burberry’s British charm sets the bar.



Aptly named for its overlapping lapels, the double-breasted suit has long signalled exuberance and leisure. Its aptitude for business, however, is relatively new. For that, you can thank 1980s Wall Street – from here, the style’s self-assured charm took hold across American boardrooms, and the rest is history. You’ll now find double-breasted suits for every occasion and taste, from the sleek care of Balmain to the peppier pieces à la Gucci.



Trust in tradition. Less snug than its slim-fit counterpart, the classic fit is liberal – not oversized – across chest and waist, proving failsafe in office, familial and celebratory settings. Here, style is whispered, not shouted. At Giorgio Armani, creamy cashmere; at Dolce & Gabbana, easy linens. Elsewhere, Canali cuts Italian-made classics with fine twill for distinguished formalwear.
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We provide made to measure, made to order and bespoke tailoring services from the likes of Berluti, Prada, Richard James and more. Our dedicated team in Menswear on the Second Floor will be happy to assist you.
The Details
Buttons
Buttons
On the sleeve, you’ll find a row of three or four buttons. Today, these are decorative for the most part, however there was a time when cuffs that opened – surgeon cuffs – signalled quality. Buttons that overlap are known as ‘kissing’ buttons, while those with gaps between are ‘non-kissing’. Men of a slimmer build often prefer the latter.
Lapel
Lapel
Add ‘notch’ and ‘peaked’ to your sartorial vernacular. Notch lapels – named for their V-shaped step – are more prevalent in tailoring, distinguishing them from their peaked counterpart. Here, the tip of the lapel points upwards, away from the collar. Peaked lapels are often reserved for dinner jackets or more formal styles, due to the skill involved in their making.
Vent
Vent
Extending from the hem upwards, vents are included in jackets to minimise restriction. Single-vent suits – typically attributed to American tailoring – are kinder on larger seats. British- and Italian-favoured double vents, meanwhile, are more resistant to bunching. Tuxedos will often be cut without a vent to create an unbroken silhouette.
Pocket
Pocket
The welted or ‘jetted’ pocket supports a streamlined silhouette, ideal for evening occasions. With this style, you’ll see only a slit and its reinforced edge (a welt). Flap pockets, which fold fabric over the pocket seam, are traditionally office fare – but black-tie rules are loosening, so you may start to see these in more formal settings.

Planning a wedding? The scale of your occasion influences its dress code. Sophistication is required wherever you are, of course, but formality varies – and your attire will follow suit.

Cleaning
Premium suits are usually rich in wool, cashmere or silk, therefore dry cleaning is essential. Less is more, however. Find a service that uses minimal chemicals to prevent lasting fabric damage. At home, regular airing will reduce the need to dry clean regularly. A steamer can prove invaluable for on-the-go maintenance – hot vapour loosens fibres to release minor blotches and unwanted scents.
Storage
Treat your suit with respect, and it will last you years – even decades. To store jackets, use only wooden hangers and ensure each is well spaced for ventilation. As for trousers, fold them over a fabric trouser bar or hang them from the hem on a felt-clamp hanger to loosen any creasing. Importantly, if you are travelling, carry your suit in a garment bag to prevent damage.

Tailoring & Alterations
From simple hem adjustments to bespoke alterations, no task is too great for The Tailors at Harrods. Ask in-store or book an at-home appointment if you live within two miles of our Knightsbridge store.
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