Monday 12 October 2009

A touch of the Freds

This morning I picked up my 'white tie and tails' at my very favourite Savile Row tailor - Anderson & Sheppard. This company has been a leading Savile Row firm from its beginnings in 1906 and the fluid style of Per Anderson, trained by the great Frederick Scholte, was from the start the distinguishing feature of the house.
Concern with easy movement and a natural body line continues into 21st Century thanks to an unbroken transmission of skills. It is possible to visit their workrooms and see your suit in progress at 32 Old Burlington Street.

It was here in the 1930's that the carpet was famously rolled back so a certain Mr Fred Astaire could dance a little, and his tailor could make sure that the collar did not ride up or look unsightly.
The most glamorous and romantic evening wear of all, 'white tie and tails' is not only worn to the most glamorous and romantic evening parties (such as Willow's Grand Autumn Ball), but also to the most formal of evening occasions such as state banquets.
The white tie outfit consists of a black evening tailcoat, black dress trousers with a double braid down the outer seam, and a stiff-fronted shirt fastened with mother of pearl or gold studs and cufflinks.
The bow tie and waistcoat are both white pique, otherwise known as Marcella, to match the shirt front and shoes are black.

12 comments:

  1. If you are wearing that outfit for Willow's ball Michael - bags I have at least one dance - save me a waltz and a fox trot!

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  2. Consider it done dear Weaver.....my two very favourite dances too.

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  3. I can't wait to see you all done up with a touch of the Freds, Michael. You're firmly penciled in on my dance card...in ink!

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  4. I look forward to our dance dear Willow, the hostess with da mostess.

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  5. I can tell you're determined to outdo the other gentlemen, Michael. We'll have to see!!

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  6. Michael, I have made a proposal over at TKR....and it is totally DECENT...just in case you truly aren't too shy! Hurry up....I am on the road already!
    Are your evening clothes ready yet? Are you getting dressed, Dahhling?

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  7. Mr. Michael, I would be honored to have a twirl around the dance floor. That is one of my favorite songs and movie. I grew up on those kind of movies. No guns and explosions and Jerry Bruckheimers in our movies. I am planning a big Kentucky Derby day on Millionaire's row at Churchill Downs in May. Mark that date and find a lady who can wear a big Derby hat. I love English lore. My ancestory is English and Irish. Great looking tux.
    QMM

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  8. You looked most handsome Michael at the Willow Ball, just the perfect outfit, what a fantastic night it all was.

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  9. I hope the Rolls didn't jostle you very much; it is vintage and has a few fidgety places...Haven't we all had a totally smashing time at Willow's? Your Ms. Seagrove ....such a lovely lady....so glad to meet the two of you!

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  10. Michael, you looked stunning in your Ball outfit!
    Seeing as I missed a dance with you, will you fix me a bacon roll? Lots of bacon and a little brown sauce please. With champagne? But of course!

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  11. You almost outdid the ladies! Very elegant.

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  12. Who designed that dress? Wonderful!

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