Shape Shifters

Grooms are just as likely to harbour body hang-ups as their other halves. Thankfully, Scotland’s tailors and kiltmakers can come up with brilliant solutions for every shape and size. Here they share their trade secrets with Rosie Patrick.

It’s a little patronising to state that men wrestle with the same body confidence issues as women, but I for one think it’s necessary to point it out. While everyone coos over changing room shots of the frock and laments the bride’s struggle to find self-acceptance, grooms o en grapple with the outfit blues in silence. If only it were as easy as slipping into a standard tux or Prince Charlie and being done with it.

The truth is, the world has some catching-up to do where grooms are concerned. Yes, of course, the gown is big news, but so is your ensemble. You are 50% of this wedding, a er all, and neither your quest for the right outfit nor the slow erosion of your self-esteem should be eclipsed or down-played. Take it from someone who’s tagged along on many a fruitless shopping trip with a portly husband: boys do cry. And that’s okay. There is no ‘one size fits all’.

With a bit of know-how and positivity, you’ll find your outfit and won’t have to sacrifice your style to flatter your shape. Until then, we’ve got your back – and every other bit of you, for that matter.

FROM SCRATCH

As daunting as it seems, everyone has to start somewhere. Take your time, urges Alan Moore of Ayr tailoring outfitter Ten30. “The most important thing to remember is that it’s your day and you want to be comfortable in what you’re wearing,” he says. “If you’re not a fashion conscious type of guy, spend a bit more time shopping around and find a place where you like both the clothing and the service. It’s helpful to have an idea before you go.”

Fancy dipping your toe into traditional Highlandwear? Doing your research will uncover the tartans, tweeds and tones that speak to you. Leaning more towards suiting? Investigate the different fabrics, prints and silhouettes out there.