Evolution Of The Office Wear
The male species with his flamboyant ego, machismo and sharp sense of style has always been considered the peacock of mankind, take a look into the past and you'll discover that the appearance and dress of men such as the Regency dandies in their codpieces, hose and silk doublet, followed by the Edwardians all bear witness. Fragrances, fashion and pampering were the trademark of the fashion obsessed Victorian era. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that we're currently witnessing the revival of interest in sartorial matters.
In this article I'll focus on formal wear.
Dinner Jackets
Though King Edward V11 in 1900 was credited with introducing the now famous DJ to the UK, it was his grandson the Prince of Wales who in the 1920's established its popularity. The new black is midnight blue and although flattering by candlelight it tends to fade into insignificance in daylight.
Unless you are a sartorial gadabout and can afford to maintain two DJ's you must to quote from "A Well Dressed Gentleman's Pocket Guide" be content to lead the social life of a Count Dracula.
I suggest black but what fun you can have teaming it with a flash lining cummerbund and waistcoat; there are a number of online fashion stores offering this at very affordable rates. All you have to do is check with online men's fashion stores, some offer incredible discounts and free overnight shipping for all orders.
Waistcoat
This is the only garment created by royal proclamation. In October 1666 Samuel Pepys wrote in his diary "The king hath yesterday in council declared his resolution of setting a fashion for clothes which he will never alter. It will be a vest I know not well how". Charles II modeled the new style in person, black cloth lined with white silk.
Following on from this the waistcoat became an excuse for the male peacocks to show off their plumage in spots, stripes, and florals. Again there has been a revival of interest in the waistcoat, this is also an easy find from online fashion retailers at good rates, you can choose the either plain for the more conservative personality or exotic fabrics in a multitude of colors.
Morning suits
Morning suits made its debut in 1890, then as a less official alternative to the frock coat. The initial appearance was typically featured in dove grey waistcoat and black striped trousers and was the common form of attire used by the proletariat of the time. It sometime featured a hat and came in shades of grey; this is still feature used for the Royal Enclosure. For formal events such as weddings you can shop for this ensemble or other exciting alternative from reputable online stores; some good options to consider include puppy tooth check pants worn with deep gold cravat, waistcoat and pale gold lining and a black coat.
Rather than use the common overall grey morning suit, why not try the grey or silver with lilac lining, purple shirt and waistcoat. Price for morning suits range from 300 bucks and above.
About the Author:
Jackie Loftis in fashion and men's accessories. If you'd like to know more about our products, please visit our cufflinks and our wonderful wedding cufflinks.
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