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.