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What is a Herringbone Shirt?

A herringbone shirt is superior to its counterparts in that it not only elevates the style and elegance of the wearer, but it is also exceptional in its quality and durability.  The term herringbone is used to define the weave used to make the shirt, which resembles the bone structure of a herring fish.  Feature Details Weave Type Broken Twill (Distinctive V-shape/Zig-zag) Fabric Feel Textured, substantial, and soft Durability High; hard-wearing construction Key Benefit Naturally wrinkle-resistant & opaque Occasion Formal business to refined casual Care Wash at 30°C; Iron while slightly damp A Little History  The historic herringbone pattern has existed for thousands of years and has been traced back as far as the Roman Empire, where the clever interlocking...

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A Guide to Custom Suits in Oxford

At Shepherd & Woodward we think it is important to be able to reflect your personality and style in what you wear. If you are looking for a suit for a wedding or another important event, it can be frustrating when you simply can’t find what you have pictured in your mind. That’s why we have created our Etch Custom Suits offering, which allows you to create the perfect suit that is unique to you; ensuring comfort and confidence throughout the day. In a nutshell, a custom suit is one that is chosen ‘off the peg’ and modified with your preferences. (Just to clarify, this is not our made-to-measure, or a tailor-made offering.)  If you are the kind of person...

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What Is White Tie Attire?

White tie, or full evening dress as we know it today, first started to evolve in the 18th Century, ironically as a more casual alternative to evening dress. What Is a White Tie Event? White tie is the most formal dress code in Western tradition, reserved for occasions where formality and tradition take centre stage. Typical events include state banquets, royal receptions, official diplomatic dinners, ceremonial university balls (such as Oxbridge college events), opera premieres, Nobel Prize ceremonies, and formal weddings hosted by aristocracy or dignitaries. When white tie is specified, precision is key. Full evening dress is expected, reflecting both the prestige of the event and long-standing traditions. What Does White Tie Attire Consist Of? White tie attire typically...

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Master's Graduation Gowns: History and Meaning

Graduation ceremonies are recognised worldwide as the day a student proudly takes to the stage, adorned in the well-known and respected academic dress to collect the long anticipated degree. The iconic graduation gowns and long draping hoods, all in different colours and designs, are a truly magnificent sight as thousands of students parade through the university with their hopes and dreams finally realised.

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