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.

Don't forget to leave a comment.

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

Sneak Peak: Wedding in the Berkshires

Dress inspiration? Watters silk organza with alencon lace gown

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

Groom Style #22: Singapore Slingers

Dress Inspiration? Vera Wang Silk & Organdy Gown

Dress: Vera Wang; Shoes via Browns Fashion

Last week, I received an e-mail from a beautiful bride, Anyta, creator of The Artsy Bride blog. When I found out that she was wearing a dress similar to one above, I almost clapped with excitement! I absolutely adore all the feminine ruffles and organdy layers (*sigh). Her ceremony will take place in a Catholic Church. Then, the happily married couple will celebrate with their guests at an evening BBQ. The best part? Everything is taking place in Singapore! This is the perfect backdrop to their brown, orange and turquoise wedding. So gorgeous. Here's what I came up with for her athletic groom.

Suit pants and jacket: John Lewis; Tie: Hickey; Watch: Burton; Pocket Square: Hermes via Uncrate; Belt: Ted Baker; Shoes: John Lewis

Anyta's groom, Gurmit, prefers khaki in lightweight fabrics, so I selected a mocha colored suit in a silk-linen blend. Not only will this keep Gurmit looking stylish, but also cool in Singapore's tropical heat. Since their morning ceremony will take place in a more traditional environment, I would include a tie and boutonniere in orange, beige and turquoise. The square face of the gunmetal-colored watch keeps the suit from looking too traditional. At the ceremony, Gurmit can shed the tie and boutonniere. Instead, he should pick up the most amazing zebra print Hermes pocket square. I can't believe that I found it in Anyta's wedding colors! Lastly, Gurmit can wear a pair of handmade calf-leather shoes, which pulls the entire look together.

Don't forget to leave a comment!

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

Sneak peak

Dress Inspiration? Vera Wang One Shoulder Gown

Dress: Vera Wang; Shoes via Browns

What will he wear?

Groom Style #21: Top Siders & Shorts

Dress Inspiration? Corey Lynn Calter White Cotton Dress

Dress: Corey Lynn Calter via Bluefly; Linen Shirt: LL Bean; Shorts: LL Bean; Hat: Hats in the Belfry; Belt: Telemark; Sunglasses: Ray Ban; Shoes: Sperry

The dress is so adorable! I love the delicate ruffles. So, I'm really hoping that someone will have their nuptials in the Bahamas...on a sail boat. I found the linen shirt and shorts at the Bean, as in LL Bean for under $50.00. Ray Bans. Top Siders. Straw fedora. Enough said.

Like this look? Leave a comment.

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

Groom Style #20: New Balance

Dress Inspiration? Alvina Valenta Silk Gown

Dress: Alvina Valenta; Shoes: Badgley Mischka via Piperlime

In an ideal wedding world, your ceremony and your reception locations would have the same vibe and style. However, this doesn't always happen. This is the exact dilemma our next bride, Megan, faces. The short, non-religious ceremony will be held in a small "green" church with modern, sleek interiors. The more traditional, evening reception will be held at private club overlooking Raleigh's stunning skyline. Megan is planning to wear this gorgeous silk gown from Alvina Valenta. She wants a balanced look that will complement this dress and her two wedding locations without compromising her groom's taste and style. So, here's what I've come up with.

T-shirt: stylerocket.com; Tux: Roderick Charles; Tie: Saville Row; Ring: Top Man; Shoes: Burton; Pocket Square; Watch: Time Piece Central

Thee modern details of this outfit will help update the traditional tuxedo. First, choose a tuxedo with peaked lapels (so, he doesn't look like a waiter), single button (so, he looks lean) and a pair of flat-front tuxedo pants (so, he looks sharp). Armani and Calvin Klein are known for their modern cuts. Megan's groom, George, can do a quick neck wear change. First, he should start off with a black tie for the ceremony, then put on a bow tie for the reception. Remember to choose a full cutaway, spread collared shirt, like the ones available at 9tailors. Next, angular accessories, such as the watch, pocket square, and the ridged wedding band, will help to create a sleek effect. Next, laces prevent the shoes from looking too casual. Finally, since Megan and George met at the University of Michigan, George can kick-up his feet and relax with a retro UMich t-shirt at the post-reception bash.

Like this look? Leave a comment.

Need help styling your groom? Contact us at weddings@9tailors.com

Groom Style #19: Tux Alternatives

My friends at Evolution of Style are true masters at making amazing tux alternatives for the groom and his wedding attendants. Paired with custom dress shirts from 9tailors and ties from their new accessories collection the look can still be sophisticated, stylish and, most importantly, affordable. Plus, it's way better than renting a tuxedo that's been worn by many, many, many times. Face it ladies (and gents), it's time to take better care of our grooms! After all, they deserve to look distinct and fabulous on their special day too.

All photos below were taken by the most talented photography team, David & Jo, from Allegro Photography.

Groom Style #18: Cocktail hour is calling

Inspiration? 9tailors Cocktail Dress

Dress: 9tailors; Suit: Dolce & Gabbana; Dress Shirt: 9tailors; Leather Bracelet: Balenciaga; Sunglasses: Ray Ban; Cuff links: Paul Smith; Shoes: Prada

Yes. Indeed. Cocktail hour in the city is calling. This post is particularly dear to me because several items above are actually items from our sister company, 9tailors! The ruffle-back dress can do double duty at a chic cocktail event or even on a bridesmaid at a wedding. If electric blue isn't your thing, we have several other really cute colors as well!

For this look, I chose a suit in similar tone and style as the dress. This Dolce & Gabbana suit, which is a navy and charcoal, is a perfect complement to the blue dress. I wanted to keep the shirt within the same electric blue family as the dress. The leather bracelet and boots keep the look tough. Overall, the look is quite serious. But, if you didn't want the look to be overly serious, you can always add a quirky element to it, like the dog and duck cuff links from Paul Smith. And, of course, retro Ray Bans keep the city's setting sun from hurting your guy's eyes.

cocktail calling by sshih featuring Dolce & Gabbana suiting

Color me pretty

Shirts from 9tailors.com via Christian Schlubach

If you're wearing ivory, should your groom wear a white or ivory shirt? Check out my answer on the most amazing wedding site: Style Me Pretty. Yes. We're big fans too.