Joyce Tham man-watches, and is able to differentiate an Ascot from a Windsor knot, or a traditional cravat, and can fold a tie neatly in seconds. That's an art acquired from being the sales and marketing director, and co-owner, of Kingsmen Shop for 28 years.
All this "research" - which includes surfing the Internet extensively - Thamdoes to update herself on the latest trends. For instance, nowadays, "suits are more fitted and jackets are single-breasted with two buttons", she notes. "Men now prefer vests; single-breasted ones in particular."
Her customers includes professionals and executives. Asked if men are as adventurous as women when it comes to choosing apparel, she replies, "Sadly no, but they can be very open to suggestions because they want to please their brides-to-be."
Which is more practical - a tuxedo or a suit?
Suits are more versatile, but most men will invest in at least one tuxedo for black-tie events. We get many orders for formal and business suits, trousers, shirts and accessories like cravats, bow-ties, pocket squares, cufflinks and belts.
What are the main differences between a tuxedo and a suit?
Tuxedo have shiny lapels and are made of satin or silk. The jacket is longer and the trouser's waistband is usually rubberised, with no belt loops. A suit's cutting is slimmer and the trousers will have a flat front. The fabric is usually lightweight and comes in black, dark blue or charcoal grey.
Can I make my black suit work for both day and night weddings?
For day, team it with a black vest, white shirt, ivory tie and pocket square. At night, throw on an ivory vest and white wing-tipped collared shirt with an ivory bow tie or cravat.
How would you dress up a "day" suit to look more formal for a wedding?
Pick a light grey suit for daytime celebrations, and for night, pair it with a vest, ivory tie and pocket square.
Rules when wearing a suit.
Shirt sleeves should be 1cm longer than the jacket's sleeves. Do not stuff your outer pockets because they add bulk, and do not wear a belt with your tuxedo trousers because they come with cummerbunds or suspenders.
KINGSMEN SHOP
#02-56/76 Far East Plaza
TEL: 6733-3581
E-MAIL: sales@kingsmenshop.com
www.kingsmenshop.com
