Alan David Blog
Bespoke vs. Made-to-Measure
The quality of a suit is heavily influenced by its material, style, and the way that it is tailored (the extent to which it is truly fitted to the individual). Related to that last element, let’s look at a few terms used to describe different approaches — particularly definitions of bespoke and made-to-measure (MTM)
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What Is a Covered Placket Tuxedo Shirt?
March 29, 2026
Formalwear is all about the details and how they match the dress code. Beyond that, a tuxedo gives you very few decisions to make. But the few choices you do make matter more than you’d think. The shirt front is one of those decisions. There are different types of shirt fronts, but a covered placket...
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Do All Tuxedo Pants Have Satin Stripe?
March 16, 2026
Classic tuxedo trousers have a stripe along the outer seam of each leg. It’s one of the small signals that says you know how to wear a tuxedo the right way. So, traditionally, yes, tuxedo pants should have a stripe. The stripe is a single band made from either satin, which has a smooth shine,...
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Tuxedo with Tie vs. Bowtie: Which One Should You Wear?
March 16, 2026
You’ve got the tuxedo. Now, you’re staring at the neckwear and second-guessing everything. The neckwear will decide the look. Choose wrong, and the proportions feel off. Choose right, and you look composed from the first photo to the last toast. You just want to choose it right and look like a gentleman. Do you reach...
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Black Tie Events in NYC in 2026
March 16, 2026
New York City leads the country in formal charitable and cultural events. From grand ballrooms to landmark museums, these nights unite patrons, artists, and community leaders behind serious causes. If you’re planning your season around black tie NYC 2026 events, this guide points to the standout galas and balls. For generations, galas here have funded...
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Cummerbund vs Vest: Which Should You Wear With a Tuxedo?
March 2, 2026
So, you’re getting ready for a wedding, gala, or black-tie event and don’t know which is best: a cummerbund or a vest? The event is days away, and the photos will live forever. You want to look correct, neither overdressed nor underdressed. Some say cummerbunds feel dated. Others claim a vest bends the rules. But,...
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The History of the Tuxedo: Origins of Modern Formalwear
March 2, 2026
Men used to dress to show rank: starched shirts, rigid tailcoats, strict rules. Over time, it has changed in many ways. And, out of that world came a quieter idea that formalwear should not only look correct, but also feel comfortable. That idea is the heart of tuxedo history. The tuxedo began as a relaxed...
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Tuxedo vs Suit: How to Choose the Right One
March 2, 2026
When you get a formal invitation, the right outfit choice comes down to the dress code and event timing. A tuxedo and a suit are used for different occasions. A tuxedo is for black-tie and evening events. A suit is appropriate for most other settings. Note the time of day and the formality of the...
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Why Bespoke Tailoring is the Best Option When It Comes to Buying a Suit
December 22, 2017
Well-crafted clothing is fundamental when you want to look your best. In fact, dressing up also changes our own psychology, according to a recent study. The research, conducted at California State University, Northridge, found that formal attire goes beyond making us feel more powerful to even allowing to us to think more broadly and holistically. Surely...
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How Your Suit’s Color Impacts First Impressions
November 29, 2017
Many people look for custom suits and custom shirts when they are preparing for job interviews, have a similar career advancement meeting, or want to stand out in networking circles. For these scenarios, it helps to know what you might be unintentionally conveying about yourself through the color of your suit. The same basic ideas...
