Alexandra Wood

From the dinner suit ’ s debut in the late 1800s , everyone knows the classic black tie look . Today we associate this dapper attire with the very well-known English gentleman of the silver screen , that is 007 . Yes , from Sean Connery to Daniel Craig , every actor has donned the dinner suit to make it unquestionably Bond ’ s most iconic look .

Of course getting the occasion right is of the upmost importance . It may be considered too dressy for casual wear , so it is not advised for the office ! If we again turn to the man himself , Mr Bond is seen on many occasions sporting the look at fancy dinner parties , but any formal evening occasion is acceptable . Originally in the 1930s , the jacket would be white , worn in order to dress formally for occasions in a warmer climate , anywhere than the dreary English climate ! However over the years although black was considered an alternative , it has now become the most widely popular acceptable in any season .

As we all know the moment any gent wears this suit they all feel like the James Bond of any event , ( queue Charlie ’ s Angels-esque posing ) and with such a name to live up to it is essential to get it right . Even the lapel is key , shawl or peak are the most common but never the notch . The fundamental is to achieve a V shaped torso line when the jacket is buttoned and is flattering for any shape , this is most commonly achieved with a peak lapel .

Double or single breasted is

acceptable , however be weary of double breasted it is advisable for this to stay buttoned otherwise can drape terribly when loose , so a single breast is more common in today ’ s style .

It is often said that a dinner suit jacket shouldn ’ t be black but more a midnight blue . The blue can look blacker than black itself and in low light has a richness to it that black doesn ’ t achieve , as a result a midnight blue has become extensively more popular than the black .

Accessories , yes even a suit requires accessories but only for that added touch of class . Cummerbunds sadly have fallen out of favour , but other accessories such as braces can still add that understated dapper effect . Traditional shoe choice still remains the go to , pumps with a satin or silk

bow , but for a more modern look a well shined pair of patent black leather shoes will do just fine . Last but by no means least the pocket square . For that classic finish this should be silk and coordinate with the rest of the outfit .

Why we love the dinner suit ? Everyman looks good in it , best of course if its made to your body shape like Bonds , but the clean lines and nod to some serious elegance , makes us go weak at the knees ...

So with that gentlemen , here at Alexandra Wood we hope you order those Martinis in suave style , and remember shaken not stirred .

Written by Amber Flint .

Want to try your hand at looking like Bond or better ? Enquire to info @ alexandrawoodbespoke . co . uk