The Shoes

Shoes need to look brand spanking new (a brilliant polish and buff are essential) but if they are, it is always worth your while breaking them in gently at home first.  Nobody wants to spend their first dance wincing in pain from new shoe blisters!

The Checklist

-Steam the trousers and jacket the day before or on the morning of the wedding (make sure there are no creases where the trousers have been hanging)

-Iron the handkerchiefs in advance and set to one side – don’t leave to the last minute

-Steam the accessories such as the cummerbund and waistcoat, which are likely to be made of delicate materials such as silk

-Don’t forget the small details such as socks (colour coordinated or smart dark and discreet?), cufflinks (a nod to humour, a family heirloom or something classic?) and underwear (bulky boxers are not a good look under either an Armani Tuxedo or a loose linen trouser)

The Aftercare

As a wedding suit is a big investment, the aftercare can be pivotal to its longevity.  A well cared for suit means that in the future it can be worn to business meetings, formal occasions or for a job interview, providing value and enjoyment for years to come.

Important items required for men’s suit care are a clothes brush, coat hangers and a clothes steamer.

Try not to become lazy, once it’s been worn, hang the suit up immediately on a good, well-structured hanger (avoid wire hangers at all costs).  Care for the suit by using a brush to remove dirt and ensure that once it’s put in the wardrobe, there is space to hang it without being squashed which will cause creasing to the fabric. A garment bag is ideal but try and make sure the suit is aired for at least 24 hours before it is put into the wardrobe.  Keep to these guidelines and then the next occasion the suit is needed, just give it a once-over with the steamer.  As Franck says: ‘You’ll be amazed at how fresh and new it still appears with the right care.”

Visit www.propress.co.uk for more expert tips.
Style tips for the groom

Stylist Franck Charlebois shares his tips on how to keep grooms looking sharp, whether they are donning tails or ditching tradition.

Many say that a wedding day is all about the bride, but it takes two to tie the knot and while most eyes will be on what the bride is wearing, the men in the wedding party - the groom, the best man, the ushers, the fathers, the pageboys - add the much-needed testosterone to the proceedings.

Here’s my guide to making sure that men look just as striking as the women in the bridal party.