YOU’RE A KING. SO LEARN TO DRESS LIKE ONE.
As we come to the close of the coronation weekend the nostalgic part of me likes to look to the history of the royals, in our country and others to discover some of our cultural roots. The treasure which strikes me so obviously as you peer into the monarchy’s gilded history happens to be the flawless ability to dress impeccably and very stylishly. Today lets pick apart some of the best lessons we can learn from princes and kings.
King Charles The Third has some notable tips which I’m certain he’d consider more precious than the Crown Jewels themselves.
Dress Horizontally.
Firstly, one might mistake Prince Charles' suiting for pyjamas, given the effortless ease with which he wears them. Yet the key lies in the impeccable tailoring, courtesy of his allegiance to Anderson & Sheppard, the most idiosyncratic of Savile Row's bespoke tailors. In contrast to their more conventional neighbours, such as Huntsman and Gieves & Hawkes, Anderson & Sheppard's signature style is distinguished by an extraordinary lightness, even a certain insouciance - the hallmark of a true rebel. Eschewing padding in the shoulders and emphasising a softer silhouette, there's an inimitable naturalness to the result that defies description. Undoubtedly, as a man as well travelled as the King is, he will be well versed with my musings of sprezzatura. It doesn’t get much more elevated than being the King of the most powerful royal family in the world, and his love for soft tailoring proves that being relaxed is truly the epitome of luxury.
Treat Accessories like your Crown Jewels.
Secondly, the King knows the power of an accessory. While his watches are truly exquisite - not for their cost by any means - and his jewels may be priceless, it is the Kings sunglasses which are truly incredible. Eye protection is key, but it’s equally as essential to have frames that compliment the traditional edges of tailoring. Thankfully, with the revival of 70’s glamour, the tortoise shell aviator is an exciting way to add a little edge to your sartorial looks, and a favourite of the King when he was but a prince 5 decades ago. These days, the monarch appears to value a more style forward frame from Cutler & Gross or Moscot, but his choices are never nothing short of righteous.
Refinement is the key to quiet luxury.
The late Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, was no stranger to navigating the strict guidelines of a corporate dress code. As the Queen's consort, his garments had to be impeccable, yet discreet. Unblemished, without attracting any unwanted attention. Over the course of seven decades, he stood, both literally and metaphorically, in his wife's shadow, his wardrobe always above reproach, yet seldom bold or ostentatious. A Queen’s gotta shine.
Upon closer inspection, however, the Prince's sartorial choices offer valuable lessons in dressing with refinement and restraint, emphasising the importance of effortless ease. This is true of his timeless suits, crafted by Savile Row tailor Mr. John Kent, as relevant today as they were in the 1950s, as well as his more laid-back ensembles.
Where his character, on occasion, may have been considerably less than royal, there’s no denying that when it comes to style the Prince was a king amongst men.
Age is not the enemy.
Moving slightly further afield, King Filipe VI of Spain is the foremost flag bearer of using his style to age gracefully. He demonstrates a penchant for perfectly tailored suits that effortlessly flatter his physique, replete with classic details such as broad notch lapels that convey timeless elegance. His assiduously crafted asymmetrical four in hand knots serve as a subtle yet distinctive accent that further elevates his appearance.
But it's not just the details of his wardrobe that set him apart. His perfectly trimmed beard exudes a dignified gravitas that befits his royal stature. It's clear that the King has mastered the art of combining classic elements with modern flair, resulting in an undeniably refined look that proves he must know that mens facial hair is the equivalent of women makeup, a true shortcut to looking august. In a world where fashion trends come and go, King Felipe's sartorial choices stand the test of time, reminding us that true style is not only about what you wear, but how you wear it.
