All posts by : Adrian Barrows

Royal Ascot is a major event in the British social calendar, attracting the rich and famous from all over the world and generating over 6 million pounds in prize money. It attracts many of the world’s finest racehorses and is visited by the Royal Family year after year. The Royal Procession is always an iconic moment to herald the start of every race day. Located in Berkshire, the event held on Tuesday 14th June to Saturday 18th June offers a truly memorable occasion. Anticipated and revered, these five days are made for socialising. Press coverage of the attendees and what they are wearing often exceeds coverage of the actual racing, so dressing for this unforgettable occasion is an important part of the day.

There are three enclosures visited by guests on Royal Ascot week:

Royal enclosure

The most prestigious enclosure of them all, this is an invite or membership only area. The dress code is extremely strict and gentlemen are reminded to wear either black or grey morning dress. This consists of a double or single breasted waistcoat, tie, matching top hat and black dress shoes. The morning coat has curved front edges sloping back at the sides into long tails. It is single-breasted with peaked lapels. Choosing a pale coloured shirt will sit well with the black-clad crowd.

Queen Anne enclosure (formerly Grandstand enclosure)

A more relaxed theme for this enclosure; gentlemen are required to wear a suit with a shirt and tie. A perfectly tailored suit would allow you to be more confident with the colours. Opting for light colours grey, beige or even light blue will bring the summer feeling to your outfit. Choosing a lightweight wool or linen will ensure the suit provides a cool attire. The ground will be uneasy so opting for brogue boots will compliment your look.

Windsor enclosure (formerly The Silver Ring)

Although no formal dress code applies in the Windsor Enclosure, no sportswear is allowed and smart casual is recommended.

Light coloured tapered trousers and relaxed neutral shirt will work well together. To avoid the chilly breeze, a casual blazer is recommended to really set this outfit off. Choosing a dark colour blazer will tone down your attire to provide a stylish and smart image. Again the ground will be uneasy so choosing sturdy footwear is crucial; rubber soled shoes will help you keep your footing and opting for darker colours will keep the grass stains at bay!

Wherever you get to view the most iconic races, you will have a fantastic day, topped off by feeling confident in your stylish outfit!

The Bespoke Tailor Picks Up Two Top Wedding Industry Expert Awards for the Third Year Running

For the third successive year, Adrian Barrows, aka The Bespoke Tailor, has been voted Most Popular Men’s Designer, both in the UK and Worldwide, by Wedding Industry Experts. These prestigious awards recognise top wedding professionals from all over the globe, celebrating excellence in terms of quality, service and professionalism.

Of his third consecutive double-win, Adrian Barrows said, “To have won such prestigious awards for three years running is pretty special. I couldn’t be happier. I’m really lucky because I love what I do – I live, eat and breathe tailoring. It’s virtually all I’ve ever done and all I want to do. I’m also lucky because over the past 20 years I have worked with some of the top names in the industry and the skills and knowledge I have gained permeate through the work that I do.”

The Wedding Industry Experts awards are different to most industry gongs as winners are chosen according to votes cast on social media and on the awards website. In order to win, The Bespoke Tailor had to beat off stiff competition from all around the world.

Adrian Barrows was also commended recently by The Wedding Industry Awards, another prestigious prize, this one based on votes cast by previous clients. Winners for this award are chosen from wedding suppliers across 26 categories in 11 regions of the UK. Of his commendation, Adrian said: ‘Once again, it is very pleasing that my clients have taken the time to cast their votes and I would like to thank everybody who has voted for me. It is greatly appreciated.’

About The Bespoke Tailor: Adrian Barrows has been providing world class tailoring and exceptional service as The Bespoke Tailor for more than 20 years. In that time, he has worked at every level of the tailoring industry, from the shop floor all the way through to creating bespoke garments for high end corporate accounts and celebrities.

Contact:
Adrian Barrows
07968 438 717
adrian@thebespoketailor.co.uk

From 24 th to 28 th May 2016, the joyous Chelsea Flower Show returns for a spectacular display of amazing plants and garden designs. The Royal Hospital Chelsea will be transformed into the world’s greatest flower show including a floral arch to celebrate HM the Queens 90 th birthday and the memorable poppies tribute.

With the arrival of this event, it can only mean one thing – we are entering our Spring and Summer wardrobe and stepping away from our winter woollies. It’s time to put away our thick jumpers and heavy coats and enter into lighter and cooler fabrics.

There are quite a few parallels that you can draw between garden design and tailoring. From the use of colour and the meticulous attention to detail to obviously wanting to be the best in show!

Your attire for this impressive day should be cool, comfortable and stylish – you don’t want to be blending in with the various flower displays, so opting for subtle,
plain colours will work well. Although there is no formal dress code, going for smart casual is best.

Choosing a classic plain relaxed shirt and casual light trousers or chinos will help give you a comfortable and relaxed feel. We are not yet in the midst of full summer sun and so a jacket or blazer will provide you with a welcoming warmth from the breeze. Opting for a cotton or linen jacket or a combination of the two will give you a practical and stylish outfit. Don’t be afraid to explore pastel colours when choosing your shirt – light pinks, blues and greens will work well with your surroundings without over doing it.

The flower show involves a lot of walking and so pairing this outfit with sensible (but stylish) shoes is a must. If you’re suffering from ill-fitting or painful shoes then you won’t enjoy the floral ambience and miss some of the amazing garden designs the event has to offer. Due to the nature of the show, there will be a lot of grass and mud so choosing darker colour shoes will make sure you’re not left with unforgiving shoes.

Our British weather can be slightly unpredictable and by having a waterproof lightweight jacket, umbrella or panama hat to hand you can easily roll with the season and be prepared.

The Chelsea Flower Show is one of the nation’s best-loved horticultural shows and you will want to feel smart and comfortable whilst attracting attention for being a charming and stylish individual instead of being a sartorial wallflower!

The Monaco Grand Prix is the most prestigious event in the Formula 1 calendar. From the racing enthusiasts to the super rich and famous, Monaco can offer a truly memorable weekend. Since 1929, the streets of Monte Carlo have hosted some amazing races in history, with its famous harbour attracting the wealthy client base it is has become accustomed too. Monaco is all about glamour! An event where everyone wants to dress to impress. Smart casual and stylish is how men should dress for this momentous occasion.

With the event happening in late May, the sun will almost definitely be making an appearance and so a cool and clean cut attire is recommended. If you’re lucky enough to be chartering a yacht for the day, then shorts and t shirt are fine as it offers a more relaxed atmosphere – lightly coloured chino shorts and a cotton polo t shirt are beneficial for relaxing in the sun. If you plan to explore the streets and have lunch in a finer establishment, then a more, smarter look is required whereby trousers are preferred. Sandals can be worn on the yachts and the local streets but again for finer establishments, shoes are necessary.

Smart tailored trousers are best and these can be paired with a light t shirt or cotton shirt to keep you cool. A cotton or linen blazer or sports jacket is recommended to create a sleek, modern look. As Monaco is all about glamour, little accessories can make a bold statement – the smart watch, cufflinks, and sunglasses will really help bring your outfit together.

Smart tailored trousers are best and these can be paired with a light t shirt or cotton shirt to keep you cool. A cotton or linen blazer or sports jacket is recommended to create a sleek, modern look. As Monaco is all about glamour, little accessories can make a bold statement – the smart watch, cufflinks, and sunglasses will really help bring your outfit together.

The daytime dress code can differ greatly to the night time which can be more stringent depending on your location. For most places, trousers, shirt and blazer are expected; if not a suit! Shorts and flip flops are not acceptable for evening attire in many settings. Choosing a light coloured suit would be best for the evening ambience.

The Monaco atmosphere is one you will never forget and being able to relax and enjoy the occasion will be made even more easier by creating an outfit that suits you perfectly and displays a confident, smart and stylish individual. And don’t forget to pack your sun cream and sun hat – a lobster red face will clash with your well thought out attire!

With a welcoming two bank holidays during May, have you decided on what delightful venture you will embark on?

Whatever your plans, make sure you are dressed for the occasion!

The country fair is a fine British tradition and if this event takes your fancy then tweed and pure new wool, waterproof jackets and corduroy trousers are all part of the country atmosphere. We would like to hope that the weather will be kind to us and bring a bit of sunshine – if this is the case, then a smart wool-linen blend maybe more beneficial.  Lighter suit colours (browns & tans) and a checked shirt, with a smart lightweight jacket complete the look.

If it’s a city break that you have planned, then something lightweight and easy to pack will be the best answer. Smart tapered cotton trousers with a casual shirt and blazer can be worn day or night. If you’re feeling confident, a fine knit scarf can compliment a plain casual suit and keep the chill at bay. Going for a nautical feel (blues, whites, light greys) can help you evolve from your dark winter clothing to the spring/summer season effortlessly. Being able to mix and match is key for lighter travel. A classic crew neck jumper with your cotton trousers for the day can easily be upgraded to an Oxford shirt and jacket for an evening out. Smart loafers with pale socks really work well with the tapered trousers.

If your occasion entails going for a meal and a theatre show, then a formal navy coloured suit is recommended. You can gain a more casual, relaxing look by not opting for a tie, but if you would prefer, then a thin tie is suggested. Brown shoes really complete this style.

For casual drinks with friends, slim fitted trousers or chinos, with an informal shirt is a great choice.  A blazer or sports jacket can really give you a fashionable and stylish edge – a textured wool in light blue is a versatile option. Loafers are a great addition in aiming for the smart casual attire. Accessories will really compliment this look, a belt that colour matches your shoes and a smart watch all bring this outfit together.

No matter what your plans are for the upcoming bank holidays, having the right wardrobe and feeling confident in your outfits will definitely help you make a great impression on those around you.

As we head towards spring, what to wear to look stylish over the Easter break depends on where you’re going and the type of event you’re attending. Here is a guide offering ideas and inspiration to help you dress appropriately whatever the occasion.

Casual

If you’re going to a friend’s house for dinner, a country club or to a restaurant for lunch, wear an open-necked shirt, polo shirt or lightweight sweater with khakis or chinos. Accessorise with leather shoes and belt. Easter is a good time to wear fun socks and welcome in spring. Pastel argyles in yellow, baby blue or mint are a great way to match your shirt or sweater.

Smart casual

For an office party, happy hour drinks after work or a business luncheon opt for smart trousers, paired with a collared shirt and loafers.

Dressy casual

To attend church, a dinner reservation with family or a last minute invite where smart casual doesn’t apply, wear pleated trousers and a dress shirt with leather loafers, a slip-on shoe or Oxfords. Pair with a blazer or sports coat. 

Evening event

An evening social event, such as a birthday party for a friend or family member, warrants a suit in charcoal or navy with a colourful tie to add a splash of colour. This style ensures you’re on-trend for the spring/summer season. Dark jeans with a sports jacket in navy blue, khaki or brown are an alternative for a more casual venue.

Stylish but not formal

For breakfast, brunch or afternoon tea gathering, or a daytime engagement party, you can opt for a dark suit paired with a French-cuffed crisp white shirt. Again, add some vibrancy with a colourful tie.

Black or white tie

If you’re attending a charity fundraiser, ceremony, wedding or have tickets to the opera, a short or waist-length black tailcoat, black or white bow tie, white dress shirt, (cummerbund optional) and slim tailored trousers fit the bill perfectly.

Black tie with a twist

An alternative to wear to galas, weddings or formal dinners where the emphasis will be on fun rather than formality, incorporate trendy prints on your tie and wear with a dress shirt. Mix fabrics such as a silk blazer to create a formal yet interesting look.

Black tie optional

If the gala, wedding, charity auction or formal dinner is black tie optional, wear a tuxedo if you own one, if not wear a dark suit such as charcoal or black paired with a white dress shirt and a solid coloured tie and pleated trousers. Accessorise your look with a pocket square and cufflinks.

Whatever you’re doing this Easter, don’t be a slouch and dress for the occasion!

London Fashion Week occurs twice a year, the first in 2016 takes place from Friday 19 February until Tuesday 23 February – also known as LFW AW16. Organised by the British Fashion Council, it hosts the world’s best designers showcasing their Autumn-Winter 2016 collections to the global press, industry buyers, photographers, bloggers and fashion aficionados. Full schedules for each day detail who is showing where and when.

The impact of London Fashion Week

It is hugely important for the British designer community to promote their garments and increase their profile on the global stage. Also for the British fashion industry to become a world leader in creativity, business and innovation.

During the shows, the feel of the set design, the music, the ambience as well as the clothes all combine to appeal to our senses and pull us into a ‘lifestyle choice’, which we as consumers aspire to buy into.

As well as unveiling the cuts, fabrics, colour palettes and styles that will hit retailers and the high street later this year, the more out-there micro trends will also offer inspiration that can be adapted by many to make their look on-trend.

Trends to look out for

The Autumn-Winter 2016 season will be highly influenced by more delicate, graceful and androgynous looks, along with subtle fabrics such as silk and satin.

Following on from the feminine feel introduced at Gucci last year, the theme continues with 1970s patterns and fluid fabrics. Angela Missoni’s collection incorporates the rock star look with Himalayan wools. Nasir Mazhar’s all-black attires are inspired by club outfits and Goth fashion. Stephane Ashpool’s classic sportswear range in soft colours will again bring a feminine touch. Statement cardigans, boxy tailoring that evokes a poetic yet pragmatic look and updated military vibes are other key trends to check out.

Fur made a big statement in Milan Men’s Fashion Week AW16, with many designers integrating this style into their collections. Dolce & Gabbana produced huge oversized fur coats, while a more toned down version of the trend was used by Marni and Giorgio Armani with fur stoles. Also, Valentino exhibited mixed pelt gilets, and fur shorts were displayed by Boris Bidjan Saberi. New innovations in technology improve the synthetic process year on year, so it’s possible to produce faux fur with the same level of quality, warmth and feel. Therefore, this look can be replicated ethically on the high street for a fraction of the cost.

Watch the live stream

I don’t think there will much fur involved when it comes to men’s suits but it will be interesting to see what styles and cuts will be making the catwalk this year and what kind of accessories will be trending.

You will be able to catch the live stream of London Fashion Week here: https://www.londonfashionweek.co.uk/live.aspx

Are you making preparations to celebrate as Valentine’s Day approaches? In addition to planning where to take your significant other, what you decide to wear is just as important. A style that’s dressed-up or dressed-down, or somewhere in between may well depend on the stage of your relationship as well as where you’re going.

Whichever you choose, to feel good you need to look good whilst also being comfortable. Too tight, too short, too big or too out-there won’t let you relax and focus on your date. You wear the clothes – not the other way around.

There are many options so you can dress to impress on this special occasion whether you’re going on a formal date, to the theatre, a dinner date or out for drinks.

Formal date
If you find yourself needing to follow a dress code, you can’t go wrong with the trusted navy suit (which should be in every man’s wardrobe) with a closed-front French cuff white dress shirt, a slim dark tie and pair of Oxford shoes. To invest in this option also means you’ll have the ‘go-to outfit’ for the majority of formal functions that arise in your diary.

Theatre date
To look your best for a trip to the theatre, a variation of the formal suit detailed above is an ideal choice. You can loosen up the look by not wearing a tie and loosening a couple of buttons. Choose a textured fabric such as tweed, cotton or hopsack in grey, khaki or brown. A simple striped shirt and brown or black loafers complete this simple but effective style.

Dinner date
Instead of the semi-casual look of jeans with a shirt, why not switch it up to the next level? A pair of slim trousers or chinos, an Oxford cloth shirt with a V-neck jumper or tailored jacket conveys you’ve taken the time and effort to look good for your date. If in doubt, stick to neutral colours because black, grey and blue are always suitable for evening events.

Drinks/Casual meal
To show you’re treating this occasion as more special than other nights out, wear something trendy and stylish such as a blazer or smart jacket. Because it doesn’t have to be formal, pick a knitted style or deconstructed cotton version with a neutral shirt and pair of casual chinos and desert boots.

With minimal planning you can aim to surpass expectations, not just meet them, with your outfit choice. Your date will be suitably impressed with the effort you’ve taken as well as your style.

I hope you have a romantic and sartorial evening!