Off The Cuff LDN champions the return of timeless tailoring trends
With socialising back on the agenda, it’s time to invest in some seriously sharp tailoring. This season, pleated trousers and double breasted jackets are back. We caught up with Off The Cuff Ldn for his top tailoring styling tips.
How do you style pleated trousers?
Pleated trousers are a flexible staple for the modern gent’s wardrobe. The very nature of the additional material below the waist allows for more comfort and this attribute helps style a relaxed outfit. Simply tucking in a tee shirt and wearing the trousers slightly higher than you might normally creates an optimised silhouette. Throw on a pair of loafers and you're good to go.
Conversely, the trouser lends itself just as well to formal looks. By pairing the piece with a smart shirt and optional blazer, the outfit delivers a sharp look that indulges an additional edge most have not yet embraced when it comes to trouser-wear. Pair with a smart shoe differential, my current go-to is a pair of dark brown suede double monks, for that added edge.
What do you love most about the pleated trouser trend?
The pleated trouser trend is something I’m glad has made a comeback. In general, I would argue that ordinary trousers are quite difficult to style when you’re looking for fresh ideas. Yes, you can get the fit right but there is no real unique edge to such a large part of your outfit. Pleats offer a more distinguished feel and propose a different path to the style conscious.
Why do you love linen?
Linen has always been my ideal fabric for warmer seasons. Having experimented with different blends, and despite a recent affinity for seersucker, I will always plump for linen. It’s essential to avoid heavier fabrics during the warmer weather and what really appeals to me is the breathability of linen; the thread count is significantly lower than other fabrics.
Why do you think pleated trousers are back in fashion?
In modern-day men’s fashion the piece has become far more refined than previous incarnations. Back in the 80’s, material composition within clothing was at an excess. Unfortunately, no exceptions were made for the pleated trouser. Today, pleats are present in much closer-fitting trouser garments. Veering away from somewhat comical editions, the cut of today’s trouser expresses a more desirable silhouette. Modernising the cut has allowed the pleat to be implemented into current men’s fashion.
What do you like most about the Hawes & Curtis linen suit?
The Hawes & Curtis linen suit is summer sophistication at its finest. Excelling in both practicality and style, the suit lends itself to a variety of warmer weather social occasions. The flexibility to dress up a casual tee with loafers or to sport a shirt and shoe combination -all whilst keeping cool- is inspiring.
How do you care for a linen suit?
When caring for your suit be aware that linen does have a tendency to crease. I, for one, tend not to bother myself too much by this but there are steps that I take to minimise such occurrences. First of all, be sure to wash the suit on a low temperature. Once washed, iron when mildly damp. Whilst ironing, be sure to roll up a towel and thread it into the suit sleeve. This safeguards against ironing a crease into the jacket. Finally, hang the suit promptly ready for future wears.
Why is a linen suit a versatile wardrobe must-have?
The modern gentleman’s wardrobe must be braced for all eventualities through a core set of pieces. For me, the linen suit acts as one of my core pieces. The summer months can be notoriously difficult to navigate when keeping cool and considering style. The linen suit performs its duty admirably.
