Groom Style Tip #9: Mad About Cultural Affairs

A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of attending my cousin's wedding in Malaysia. The ceremony and reception were beautiful. Malay, Indian, Chinese, Muslim, Hindu influences were nicely woven into all elements of the wedding. It was truly a multi-cultural event!

After my cousin's wedding, I concluded the following: First, it IS possible to infuse multi-cultural attire, foods, traditions, etc. into a wedding. Second, it IS possible to outfit your groom into non-Western suit attire. See image below.

Even if you aren't Malaysian, here are some some great style takeaways:

1. Grooms can wear color. My cousin chose to wear pink and orange. The key is that you don't always have to default to the basic black suit/tux. There are so many beautiful options from gray to khaki to seersucker to baby blue.
   
2. Accessories are key. Your accessories will personalize the outfit. My cousin-in-law decided to don traditional Malay accessories, such as headdress, jewelry and wooden dagger. I'm not suggesting that your groom carry weapons to the wedding. BUT, you can still use wedding appropriate accessories to play up your wedding colors, show off your heritage, and embrace your groom's personal style (my fiance wants to wear an ascot...hmmm). Colorful socks, unique neck wear, quirky boutonnieres, and sophisticated pocket squares, etc., are great places to start when personalizing your groom's outfit.
3. Make sure your groom is comfortable. It is so important to take your groom's feelings, personal style and comfort into consideration. My cousin-in-law loves to wear a ring on each finger, so he wore lots of man-jewelry at the wedding. However, if your groom is not comfortable wearing pink or ruffles or flip flops, it's important not to force him into it.
   

Need help styling your groom? E-mail us at weddings@9tailors.com.

Sneak Peak: Pool Blues

Dress Inspiration? Custom Couture

How much do you love that necklace?

Find out what he's going to wear tomorrow.

9tailors Custom Clothing Event in Boston

After a week of traveling (Hong Kong - Shanghai - Hong Kong - Boston), I'm finally home with my fiance and kitty (yes, my cat has his own blog). Now, back to B&BT work!

Anyway, just wanted to share some news. 9tailors will be hosting its 3rd Custom Clothing Event in Boston on Saturday, August 29! Details here.

9tailors has been dressing wedding after wedding after wedding this season. One reason is that brides and grooms can design affordable, one-of-a-kind custom dress shirts for the guys! This event will be a fantastic opportunity for couples to see what 9tailors has to offer.

Here's what one groom had to say about his experience:

“9 Tailors made the shirts for the my groomsmen in my wedding. Not only were the shirts exactly what I asked for (cuffs, collar, color were just as I envisioned), the fit was amazing. All four of my guys raved that their shirts were the best fitted shirts they've ever had. Sam and her crew go through the whole process with you, from choosing the design, to the final fitting. We all loved the shirts as soon as we put them on. But since Sam was so diligent about following up and insisting on quality and the right fit, I know that if we had had an issue she would have fixed it to our liking. I know that I'll be going back to 9 Tailors! And I have a feeling I've won over a few groomsmen and many guests at my wedding as we got many compliments!”

Max, Somerville, MA

Max chose some unique accents that complemented his wedding colors and style for him and his groomsmen. Below are the shirting fabrics that Max chose.

Max chose a beautiful 100% white twill for the shirt.

Max also went with a white, green and blue twill - colors that complemented his wedding theme - to go inside the collar and cuff.

I'll be back tomorrow with more weddings!

Want to style your groom? E-mail us at weddings@9tailors.com.

Groom Style Tip #8: Mad About HK Wedding Mags

So, the last few weeks while I've been visiting my family in Hong Kong, I've been flipping through some local wedding magazines. Here are some pages ripped from my favorite, Cosmopolitan Bride.

Three notes:

First, I apologize for the quality of the images as I am working with less technology (no real PhotoShop) at my disposal (I should really convince my parents to invest in the program).

Second, the prices you see below are in Hong Kong dollars. I don't want anyone to freak out because a pair of YSL shoes cost $5,200. Don't worry. Just divide by 7.8...

Third, pardon the small typo below. When Cosmo Bride says, "Gloom's Style," I think they really mean "Groom's Style."

Hong Kong weddings tend to be more formal occasions, thus grooms like to wear full-on tuxes to weddings. It's also not uncommon to have the groom change outfits 2, 3, 5 or more times during the 12-course Chinese wedding banquet. This magazine recommends, "While grooms tend to choose more popular colors, such as black, white and gray...they can use boutonnieres, bow ties and cummerbunds to add a hint of color." Personally, I really like the chic, monochromatic look (to the left) myself. Very modern.

Hong Kong guys are very serious about their accessories. They like bracelets, watches, rings... you name it. They also like to wear things with more flair to them. Take a look at the angles on the rings above; they're a bit rocker-ish. But, they still have a beautiful, yet very masculine quality to them.

Hong Kong guys also love their shoes (brand name ones, especially). Quality dress shoes can definitely put a dent in your budget, but your groom won't be wearing them every day. So, they will last you for many years to come, making the investment seem somewhat reasonable. I particularly like the Louis Vuitton dress boot on the lower right side. It's perforated all around, giving it a slightly textured touch.

Need help styling your groom? E-mail us at weddings@9tailors.com.

Groom Style Tip #7: Mad About Mixing Patterns

A lovely bride recently asked me how to match her navy braces with pink polka dots. As I began to do research on this, I kept asking myself, "Should she go with a patterned tie or a solid tie?" I love to play with patterns and textures so, naturally I went with the former option. But, often times, pattern-on-pattern can end disastrously. So, what's the best way to mix and match? Here are a few tips.

All shirting fabrics available at 9tailors;

Top left: Gucci via Bluefly;
Top Right: Moss;
Bottom left: Armani via Bluefly
Bottom right: Ike Behar via Nordstroms

Rule #1: Mix subtle with subtle

The key here is to pick subtle patterns with other subtle patterns in complementary shades. This might be the easiest look to pull off. Look at the example on the upper left corner. Start off with neutral shades (black, gray, white, etc.). When I mean subtle, I mean small, thin, textured (e.g., gray on gray, black on gray) colors or patterns. In other words, nothing should jump out at you at all.


Rule #2: Mix similar shades and/or tones together

The key here is to pick colors that complement each other in shade or in tone. Look at example 2 on the upper right corner. Start off with your shirt. The shirt is primarily blue with a subtle white checkered pattern on it. Then, go with a tie that picks up the equally vibrant shade of blue. If you are having a hard time figuring out colors, use a color wheel. It's very helpful!


Rule #3: Vary the size of the patterns

The key here is to choose one larger sized pattern with a smaller sized pattern. Same sized patterns might be a little too busy or too crazy for some of you. So, this is a great option for you if you want a cleaner, more streamlined look. The lower left combination is a good example of this. The purple thin stripes in the shirt play off the lavender stripes in the tie. Also, notice how the space in between the stripes are also varied as well. This prevents the look from being too matchy.

Rule #4: Mix two different patterns

The key here is to mix a smaller pattern and a larger pattern. So, if you wear a tie with a larger pattern, then go with a smaller striped pattern shirt and vice versa. See the example on the lower right corner. The paisley in the tie is a much bolder print than the stripes in the shirt. the In this option, the pink of the shirt and the periwinkle in the tie still match.

The above rules will help you avoid making mixing mistakes. Your groom and your groomsmen will look quirky, yet sophisticated!

Need help styling your groom? E-mail us at weddings@9tailors.com.

Groom Perk #1: Free Customization from Blue Flourish

Our friends at Blue Flourish are giving BB&T readers free customization on all groom's boutonnieres.

Enjoy!



Just got back from my cousin's wedding in Malaysia! More fun groom stuff tomorrow!

Need help styling your groom? E-mail us at weddings@9tailors.com.

Groom Style Tip #6: Mad about Blue Flourish

The other day I was on one my favorite sites, Etsy, and I discovered one of the most lovely stores ever, Blue Flourish. If you're on Etsy, they are also known as Rationale. Whether flowery or feathery, these one-of-a-kind boutonnieres are crafted with love by head designer and owner, Queenie. Not only are these pieces beautiful, they're quite affordable as well with boutonnieres starting at $4.75 on her Etsy site. Spice up your groom and your wedding party's suits with pretty and perky boutonnieres from Blue Flourish! I'm so excited that I found them!

Here are some sample pieces from Queenie. Love them.

I'm going to be off for a few days. My cousin is getting married this weekend in Malaysia. I'll be back on Monday with more weddings and fun groom's stuff!

Need help with your groom's style? E-mail us at weddings@9tailors.com

Groom Style #28: Made in Manhattan

So, I finally got my act together (I've been traveling overseas). And, I'm ready to post this week. A beautiful bride, Sarah*, wrote to me last week about her wedding. She will be marrying her fiance, Robert, in November at a refurbished church turned recording studio turned club/lounge/restaurant called the Providence in Manhattan. Sarah* will be wearing this gorgeous tulle and lace gown from Sottero & Midgley. Their colors, pewter and blue, are based on the couple's birthstones (opal for Robert and Sapphire for Sarah*). From the pictures of Providence and from Sarah's explanation it looks like it will be a vibrant and festive affair! Let's see what he's going to wear.

Suit: Paul Smith; Shirt: Donald Trump via Macy's; Cuff links: ECufflink; Silk Tie: Georgio Armani via Bluefly; Watch: Great Timing; Knit Tie: Nick Bronson; Shoes: Kenneth Cole via Zappos; Blouson: Burberry; Undershirt: Thomas Pink

Sarah* wants to make sure that Robert is comfortable, yet polished. When I read this, I immediately thought of the late Paul Newman. He defines classic, American style with his slim-cut, charcoal suits, dark ties and cuff links. The gray suit is Paul Smith. The gray-striped shirt from Donald Trump. I love the gray striped dress shirt with a white collar - perfect for their semi-formal occassion. There are two tie options: a silk, patterned tie from Georgio Armani and a silk-knit black tie. Either would go well with the pewter and blue colors of their wedding. The opal cufflinks are a nod to Sarah* and Robert's style theme. The shoes are perfect for the casual guy - as this requires very little effort to put on or take off! I also love the modern take on the wing-tip detail. Lastly, Robert can sport the blouson and classic undershirt on his honeymoon - so Paul Newman. All he needs is a pair of jeans and brown loafers!

Don't forget to leave a comment!

E-mail us at weddings@9tailors.com if you need help styling your guy.

*Name has been changed.

Sneak Peak: Old Hollywood

Dress Inspiration? Sottero & Midgely lace and tulle gown

Find out what he's going to wear tomorrow.

Need help styling your groom? E-mail us at weddings@9tailors.com

Groom Style Tip #5: Mad About Bow Ties

Madras bow ties from J Press

I'm not talking about your straight, and might I add, boring silk bow ties. I'm talking about it's friendlier, more approachable cotton cousin. Maybe it's the return of Americana style that's made me fall in love with the bow tie again? All I know is that the punchy colors of the madras, floral and paisley patterns are perfect for an end-of-summer beach or farm chic wedding.

All bow ties above from Beau Ties Ltd.

Just take a look at the J Press site. All of the madras bow ties are "out of stock." It's not hard to see why the preppy options don't stay on the shelves for very long.

There's another reason to rejoice...Apparently, the bow tie has been so popular that even the LA Times featured a "How To Make A Bow Tie" piece! Click here for the how-to. For those of you who are very crafty, you can make your own bow tie that matches your color and wedding themes. Pick your fabric from a place like, Gorgeous Fabrics, get your sewing machine and presto! A DIY gift for your groomsmen. Brilliant.

Let us know if we can help style your groom. E-mail us at weddings@9tailors.com.

We're in the NYT!

OK. B&BT was mentioned in the New York Times on Sunday! Click here to see a copy of the article if you missed it.

I promise to be back this week with more weddings and more design boards for your groom!

For now, here are some really amazing boutonnieres from Fritts Rosenow Bespoke Boutonnieres. Enjoy!

If you want us to help you style your groom, e-mail us at weddings@9tailors.com.

Groom Style #27: Orange you in love?

Dress inspiration? Essence of Australia Gown

Dress: Essence of Australia; Shoes: Betsy Johnson via Zappos

So, I have to apologize again for not posting in over a week. We've been very busy running around New York City and Boston for the 9tailors Custom Apparel Event. If you haven't had a chance to check it out, you can still help dress your groom on Saturday, June 27.

Anyway, on to our next beautiful bride, Becky. Becky and her fiance, Gord, will be married in July 2010 in London, Ontario. Yep. That's right. BB&T has gone international now. She describes her wedding as formal to semi-formal. Her Essence of Australia gown above will be perfect as she says her vows in a romantic, bloom-filled courtyard. She wants something unique, which is why she has turned to Snippet & Ink's cobalt and orange inspired wedding she saw a few months ago. Let's see what he's going to wear...

Suit: Ted Baker via Zappos; Shoes: Grenson via Gimme Shoes; Boutonniere: Rosenow Floral; Cuff links: David Donahue via Nordstroms; Tie: Bowties.com; Belt: Tie Ups via Nordstroms; Watch: Toy Watch via Jules; Passport Holder: WalletB

Since Becky describes Gord as being casual with some edge, I think that this slim, navy suit from Ted Baker is a perfect fit for him. If you haven't shopped Ted Baker, I suggest you start now. Modern, city-chic pieces - very Londoner. This particular suit is from the Zappos awesomely well-priced suit collection. On to the accent pieces. The cobalt and orange accessories really punch up the more somber mood of the suit. Blue, patent leather shoes from Grenson are the perfect touch to his outfit. I didn't want to go too edgy with all the pieces, so I kept the tie on the more traditional side. The tie has a small, blue paisley pattern on a tangerine background. I love the brightly colored belt made with recyclable materials. I also think that the cuff links and toy-like watch add a playful touch to the outfit. If you don't want to go too heavy with the accents, mixing more subtle pieces with the brightly colored ones are also a good idea. While Becky was not sure if she wanted all the groomsmen to sport a boutonniere, I think that this orange boutonniere from the most brilliant boutonniere-maker, Rosen Floral, might change her mind! Lastly, the passport holder and wallet is a beautiful, yet practical gift for the groom for his honeymoon (Please tell him his pants pocket is not an acceptable mode of transporting one of his most important documents). It's also in the perfect shade of cobalt!

Congrats Becky and Gord on their upcoming nuptials!

Like it? Hate it? Leave a comment.

Need help styling your groom? E-mail us at weddings@9tailors.com

Aww maaaan

Man, am I a delinquent?! I'm so sorry that I haven't been posting at all. My day job at 9tailors has been keeping me away from my beloved blog. I promise I'll be back tomorrow with another amazing wedding!!

Stay tuned!

9tailors does it again!

Due to the popularity of the first custom dress shirt and trunk show, 9tailors and Guilded Boston will host another event on June 27. If you missed the last one, you can still have a chance to get a great fitting shirt by 9tailors! The best part? Dress shirts start at $60.00.

RSVP at info@9tailors.com. Those of you who RSVP have a chance to win your very own custom dress shirt!

Saturday, June 27, 2009

12:00 PM to 5:00 PM
213 Newbury Street, Suite 2F
tel: 877.513.1898
email: info@9tailors.com

men and women welcome!

Live in NYC? We'll be hosting our custom dress shirt event on 6/18-6/19! Click here for more info.

Rules & Regulations of "Win a free shirt" Raffle:

• Participants of raffle must RSVP prior to June 25, 11:59 AM
  
• Winner must be present at the event
  
• Winner will be announced via e-mail or in person on the day of June 27
  

Groom Style Tip #4: Hats off to you

I love hats. I can't deny it. Hats can be a great way to accessorize a man without making him look silly, overdressed or blinged out. Plus, they make incredible photo accessories. You can do so many things with hats! But, since you want to make sure that he looks sophisticated and sharp, it is wise to stay away from your fiance's ratty baseball cap...

Top (left to right): Groom via Snippet & Ink; Groom via Style Me Pretty
Bottom: Casey Afflek via GQ; Groom via The Brides Cafe

Top (left to right): Gray Hat by Kangol via Nordstroms; Pinstripe Fedora by Goorin Moretti via Hats in the Belfry;
2nd row (left to right): Straw hat by Bailey Salem via Nordstroms;
3rd row (left to right): Plaid hat by Kangol via Nordstroms; Cap by Kangol via Nordstroms;
Bottom row (left to right): Blue hat by Bailey Salem via Nordstroms;
White fedora by Bailey Salem via Hats in the Belfry

Need help styling your groom? E-mail us weddings@9tailors.com.

Don't forget to leave a comment!

Win amazing clothes in NYC

9tailors, Evolution of Style and Bonobos are getting together for an amazing promotion! Attend our Custom Suit, Pants and Shirt Event in New York and win an entire outfit for your father or your fiance!

Here are the details:

Thursday, June 18, Noon to 7:30pm

Friday, June 19, Noon to 7:00pm

RSVP and make an appointment at info@9tailors.com.

Groom Style tip #3: Feeling suspended

Mmmmm. I know what you're thinking. Suspenders? Really?! Yes. Really. Suspenders or braces are appearing every where. It's the new trend of mixing formal and informal wear together. I know my fiance will be rejoicing. He loves suspenders. So, give your belt a break...

Here are a few looks that won't make him look like your Uncle Hubert.

Top row (left to right): Aligator by Brooks Brothers; Black & Tan JoS. A. Bank; Geometric shapes by Top Man; Red Plaid by Top Man;
Middle row (left to right): Striped By Top Man; Green Plaid by Top Man; Multi-hue by Top Man; Solid Brace by Brooks Brothers; Stars & Stripes by Top Man;
Bottom row (left to right): Green Stripe by Brooks Brothers; Red by Top Man; Black by Burton; Navy with Burgandy by JoS. A. Bank

Need help styling your groom? E-mail us at weddngs@9tailors.com.

You deserve to be fabulous...

You've probably noticed that the site looks a little different today than before. Don't fret. A hacker did not attack my site, rather my fiance, a web developer, changed the layout a tiny bit.

Anyway, on to today's post. Today, I wanted to feature some amazing pieces from Boston jewelry designer, Rebecca S. Scott. She is the owner and head designer of JewelsFabulous. If you are as addicted Etsy as I am, you're in luck. She has her own Etsy store. Awesome.

Now, I've seen these in person. I can't tell you how much I love, love, love her pieces. I am particularly fascinating by her metal work. By using a hammer passed down by a relative, she is able to create the most subtle, yet beautiful textures on her bracelets, earrings and necklaces. Since many of her pieces are under $100, these also make pretty amazing (and inexpensive) bridesmaids gifts. So, without further ado, here are her pieces.


Want more? You can view her entire collection at the 9tailors Custom Apparel Event on June 27. For details, click here.

Sneak Peak: Wedding in the City

Dress inspiration? Gown by Marchesa

Dress: Marchesa; Shoes: Christian Louboutin via Browns Fashion

Want to know what he will wear? Find out on Monday.

Need help styling your groom? E-mail us at weddings@9tailors.com

We're in Glamour.com

I woke today with the biggest surprise of my life. A bride-to-be, whom we featured recently here wrote a story on Glamour.com and mentioned Boutonnieres & Bow Ties, or B&BT as I like to call it. I'm so thrilled and extremely flattered that our little style project has started receiving recognition! Let's hope this kind of attention keeps on coming...

Click on the image to view the full article.

Alright, more to come tomorrow....!!

Need help styling your guy? E-mail us at weddings@9tailors.com

Groom Style #26: Hay, we're in love.

Dress inspiration? Thread One-Shouldered Gown in Matte Silk

Dress: Thread; Shoes: Kate Spade via Bluefly

Basically, I love everything that Thread makes. My heart literally flutters when I see this dress. I can't get over its simple, yet elegant design. I think it will look gorgeous on our next bride, Jenny. Jenny will marry her fiance, Michael, at the Inn at Mountain View Farm in Vermont this August. The ceremony and reception will be much like Jenny's dress above, beautiful and breezy. Since the couple will be married near an old converted horse barn, all of Jenny's bridesmaids will carry stalks of wheat instead of floral bouquets. Guests will witness Jenny and Michael's nuptials while sitting on hay bales. Love it. So, here's what I've come up with for her groom.

Vest: JCrew; Pants: JCrew; Shirt: Hugo Boss via Macy's; Shoes: Cole Hann via Bloomingdale's; Hat: Hats in the Belfry; Boutonniere: Thinkflowers.com; Belt: Cole Hann via Bloomingdale's; t-shirt: Gap; Shorts: Old Navy: Flip Flops: AE

I must admit; dressing Michael was a challenge. How do dress a guy who "hates" to dress up? Here's how. Keep everything clean, simple and functional. No over-the-top clothes or accessories allowed. Since Jenny has already purchased vests from JCrew, it only seems fitting that the pants should come from the same store. I love the vest and pants look. Very cute. The subtle blue and white stripes on the dress shirt and the red on the t-shirt will complement Jenny's wedding colors: cornflower blue and red. While Michael can opt to wear a white undershirt, I think that the red would bring an unexpected pop of color underneath his dress shirt. For the ceremony, I recommend wearing the dress shirt sleeves long. For the reception, I recommend rolling them up. Afterwards, I imagine a bonfire-style after-party (away from the hay of course) where Michael can sit back and relax in his red-T, khaki shorts and flip flops. The hat is a nice photo accessory, as it complements the wheat and hay back drop. Lastly, the shoes and belt above might be the most important items that a casual guy should have in his wardrobe: Cole Hann's Air Jackson slip-on shoes with Air Nike technology and Cole Hann's reversible black/brown belt. The former is for style and comfort. The latter is for function and versatility.

Jenny also asked me to find some dresses for their baby girl. So, here's what I found in their wedding colors! How cute are these?!!?

White/blue dress: Smitherman & Barnwell; Red striped dress: Ralph Lauren; Solid blue dress: Polo; Blue floral dress: Monsoon; White dress: Smitherman & Barnwell; Red dress: Smitherman & Barnwell

Congrats to Jenny and Michael!

Don't forget to leave a comment!

Need help styling your guy? E-mail us at weddings@9tailors.com

Sneak Peak: Wedding in Vermont

I'm heading out early for the weekend. My dear, dear friend, Abbey is getting married!!! So, I just wanted to leave you with a sneak peak of the next wedding that I'll be posting about...

Dress inspiration? Thread One-Shouldered Gown in Matte Silk

Dress: Thread; Shoes: Kate Spade via Bluefly

Yes. Those are jig saw pieces on the sandals.

Want to know what he's going to wear? Find out on Monday.

Groom Style Tip #2: Hour love

We've become so reliant on our smart phones, pdas and other eletronic devises for the time. Most likely, your groom won't be carrying his Blackberry or Iphone down the aisle (at least I hope not!). But, since he still needs to know the time and look stylish, let's give him some wrist-love. Accessorize his outfit with a watch that he'll want to wear now and forever.

Groom Style #25: "High Jinks to Follow"

Dress Inspiration? Le Spose di Gio with a Drop Waist

Dress: Le Spose di Gio via preownedweddingdresses.com; Shoes: Prada via MYFASHIONLIFE

I can't even begin to tell you how much I LOVE this next wedding. Our groom style inquiry comes from Natalie, a beautiful west coast bride. She and her fiance, Wesley (what a cute name!), will be married within a redwood grove at UC Berkeley's Botanical Gardens. Natalie designed all the art work for their invitations using an Art Deco design theme. In the invitation, Natalie also included the words, "dinner, wine and high jinks to follow." Their guests will be asked to play kazoos (amazing!) as the newly married couple recesses. Needless to say this will be a wonderfully whimsical, semi-formal wedding with an art deco twist. So, this is what I came up with...

Suit: Brooks Brothers; Dress Shirt: Ted Baker; Bow tie: Bowtie.com; Vest: TopMan; Pocket Square: Ralph Lauren; Cuff links; Shoes: Bruno Magli

Natalie would like to make the groom men's outfits a little fun without loosing the Art Deco feel to it. Natalie has already chosen a black Brooks Brothers suit, aptly named the "Fitzgerald." I chose a gray dress shirt which softens the stark black suit and also ties in Natalie's wedding colors. It's also a nice twist to the traditional white shirt. Now, on to the accessories. The opulence of many pieces made in the Art Deco era might not appeal to Wesley. He's a fairly simple guy. So, a few carefully chosen pieces that only hint at the design theme are all you need. The cuff links and wingtip shoes both have a subtle geometric shape. There are other more elaborate Art Deco motifs such as sweeping curves. So it's more than appropriate to have a paisley bow tie and a decorative pocket square. And lastly, I'm also loving the black vest, which ties together the whole 1920s-with-a-modern-twist look.

Don't forget to leave a comment!

Need help styling your groom? E-mail us at weddings@9tailors.com.

Speak peak: Art Deco Wedding

What will he wear? Find out tomorrow...

Dress Inspiration? Le Spose di Gio with Drop Waist

Dress: Le Spose di Gio via preownedweddingdresses.com; Shoes: Prada via MYFASHIONLIFE

How romantic is this dress?!

Need help styling your groom? E-mail us at weddings@9tailors.com.

Groom Style Tip #1: Fit is it

Image via halls.md

For many engaged couples, the decision of what the groom and groomsmen should wear is decided jointly. Mostly, the discussion is regarding style and color. But, fit should also be a factor as well. Some guys just simply, do not fit off the rack clothing without major reconstruction. So, do you guys a favor. Get him a shirt that fits.

As many of you know, we recently partnered up with a suit-making company, Evolution of Style. So, they set up "The Fit Test" to see if our shirts actually stand up to the off-the-rack designer labels. I don't really need to say anything, as you can see for yourself the results of the test. Check out the photos below.

Click image to enlarge

Click image to enlarge

This is what Jonathan Mustich, the founder of Evolution of Style, had to say, "Today I received my custom made shirts from 9tailors.com and I'll let you decide which looks better. Not only does it look better I am much more comfortable in it which helps me be more confident throughout the day. I was once like you where I thought the normal off the shelf dress shirt would fit, but after getting my first custom shirt I will never go back. The most astonishing part is through 9tailors.com they are less expensive than most name brands while using the same great fabrics!"

Click here to continue reading about the test.

Thanks to the guys from Evolution of Style for making "The Fit Test" possible!

For amazing suits, go to Evolution of Style. Those guys really know how to do suits well. Suits start at $350.

For great fitting shirts, go to 9tailors.com. Shirts start at $60.00

Groom Style #24: High Nola

Dress Inspiration? Lazaro Ivory Alencon lace and organza

Dress: Lazaro; Shoes: Giuseppe Zanotti via Bluefly

This style request comes from a sweet bride, Lindsay. She and her fiance, Andrew, will be married in the New Orleans Museum of Art come fall. Very old world charm. It's hard not to see why she and Andrew will be using the classic fleur-de-lis motif throughout the ceremony and reception. So, here's what I've come up with.

Tuxedo: JoS. A Bank; Socks: K. Bell via Fashion Club; Shoes: Hudson; Cufflinks: Louisiana Lagniappe; Tie: Hickey via Bluefly; Belt: Cole Haan via Bluefly; Watch: Omega via Lfstyl

The key to using vintage or vintage-y pieces is to combine the outfit with more modern elements. This will help you keep your guy's duds from looking like a costume. So, I combined a three-buttoned tuxedo jacket with a tie instead of a bow tie (per our bride and groom's request). Then, I used the fleur-de-lis motif throughout the outfit. Use it sparingly because you want your guy to look like he's going to a sophisticated event, not to a New Orleans Saints football game. Socks are a great way to incorporate a design theme because they remain relatively hidden throughout the wedding. Cuff links too, are a subtle homage to the motif. I also chose a Hickey tie with a fleur-de-lis pattern. However, if you look closely, it's not an exact replica of the fleur-de-lis, rather it is a more modern take on it. To add a unexpected twist, ask every other groomsmen to wear the socks, the remaining groomsmen the cuff links. Who says your groom and groomsmen have to match exactly? I love the traditional look of the croc tie and wing tip shoes. The curved lines on the accessories soften up the rather stark, black leather. While Andrew typically wears a silver Fossil watch for everyday, I thought he needed an upgrade for his wedding. A silver, vintage Omega watch with an ivory face and Roman numerals completes the outfit.

Don't forget to leave a comment!

Want to know how to style your groom? E-mail us at weddings@9tailors.com

Sneak peak: Wedding in New Orleans

Dress Inspiration? Lazaro Ivory Alencon lace and organza

Dress: Lazaro; Shoes: Giuseppe Zanotti via Bluefly

Hello. I love the back, love the train, love the ruffles.

What is he going to wear? Find out tomorrow.

Dress inspiration? Watters silk organza and alencon lace gown

Dress: Watters Brides via Perfect Wedding Guide; Shoes: Elie Tahari

If you haven't gone to the Berkshires in the summer, I suggest you go there stat! With its luscious forests, tranquil hills and quaint New England farms, it's not hard to see why our lovely couple, Amy and Chad, chose to be married there in August. The ceremony will take place under an apple tree. Guests will then celebrate with the couple in a garden full of wild flowers. She'll also have wooden bowls full of peaches that will be a feast for the eyes and the stomach. Amy's gown from Watters Bride has a elegant, yet breezy feel to it. I paired it with french blue flat sandals (which will go well with her bridesmaids dresses). Let's see what Chad will be wearing!

Suit: Saville Row; Dress shirt: Hickey via Bluefly; Belt: Burton; Shoes: Barker; Watch: REI; Tie: Saville Row; Socks: Burlington

Chad is an athletic and casual guy, so I chose a neutral toned, cotton twill suit jacket and pants. This will go nicely with the shade of ivory in Amy's dress. Next, he needed a smart-casual (not overly dressy) button-down, peach shirt. While you can't really see it from the image above, the shirt actually has a bit of texture to it, which always makes solid colors more visually compelling. I also chose matching tan shoes and belt to pick up the rustic colors of the surrounding farm. Since the bridesmaids will be wearing french blue, I chose other french blue accessories. Lastly, I picked up a watch from one of his favorite stores, REI, that also acts an altimeter, barometer and compass. Chad will never get lost. He will always know what the weather will be. Most importantly, he will not be late the ceremony.

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