
Lessons in Tailoring
- Words By
- Bibby Sowray
- Edited By
- Laura & Petro
- Photography By
- Eva K. Salvi
- Hair & Makeup By
- Carolyn Gallyer
In Partnership with The Fold
At Wardrobe ICONS, we’re committed to highlighting brands that share our ethos of enduring style by creating pieces that will withstand the test of time. The Fold is one such brand. Disappointed by the workwear options on offer when she was part of the corporate world, founder Polly McMaster decided to create her own. A decade on and The Fold has become a go-to for elegant tailoring, workwear and occasion pieces, with a focus on quality, craftsmanship and durability. Here, Laura and Petro have teamed up with the brand to showcase the best in summer tailoring.
After months of dark wintry colours, spring and summer are the seasons to switch up your tailoring and try out lighter shades. A soft dove grey is a gentle way to ease yourself into a paler palette and its neutrality makes it the perfect canvas for bold, statement accessories.
The classic loafer never goes out of style – there is so much value in a comfortable, versatile shoe. A high-shine patent leather is a chic twist that elevates simple tailoring. For maximum wearability, look for styles with minimal hardware and a clean, unfussy shape.
Creating an enduring wardrobe isn’t just about the items within it, it’s also about the styling tricks that can multiply the wear potential of your items. A self-tie belt can transform a blazer – cinch at times when you want a feminine silhouette, remove when you want a more relaxed feel.
The ivory suit is a huge trend for SS23, but for us it’s timeless. This one is tailored from The Fold’s easy-wash Clever Crepe, making it effortlessly wearable. Fresh and crisp, it has a preppy vibe that’s formal but light-hearted. We love the juxtaposition of pairing it with low-key sandals or slides.
You can’t beat a navy suit. A universally flattering colour, it’s a great alternative to black if you prefer to stick to darker clothes in the summer. A double-breasted blazer paired with high-waist, wide-leg trousers is the epitome of refined elegance and can be dressed up or down with ease.
A box-fresh white trainer is the ultimate high-low pairing for tailoring, adding a relaxed feel that can take your suiting into relaxed, off-duty days. Go for a simple court style with minimal detailing and opt for a slightly built-up sole for extra impact and interest.
There’s no better fabric for summer than linen. When combined with tailoring, it makes for a less formal feel that’s perfect for multiple occasions. A bright hue, like this vibrant blue, highlights the beautiful texture, while a single-button blazer and wide-leg trousers create a timeless silhouette.
Every great wardrobe is built on a foundation of basics such as the simple white top. This one, made from organic stretch cotton, has a crew neck, perfect for layering underneath blazers, and voluminous sleeves for added impact without a jacket. A real workhorse in your wardrobe.
It isn’t easy to find the perfect black trousers, but when you do, you’ll love them forever. The trick is to look for a pair that offers both comfort and style. Opt for a high-waist, peg-leg shape that can be dressed up or down, with a cropped ankle and a waist that can be belted for definition.
We often extol the virtues of a trench, and that’s because this wardrobe icon is outerwear at its best. Go for a slightly oversized fit, with minimal detailing to ensure maximum staying power. The perfect partner for tailoring, this one is water-repellent and packs away into an accompanying bag.
If white isn’t your vibe, try tailoring in softer stone tones instead. Not quite cream, not quite grey, it’s a more forgiving shade. We love the simplicity of a stone-coloured trouser suit worn with minimal accessories – such a bold, sophisticated look.
A classic block-heel shoe is an essential when it comes to comfort. This contemporary take on the loafer is the perfect finishing touch to workwear ensembles, and croc-embossed leather is a timeless texture to add into your wardrobe.