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How to Buy the Perfect Men's Suit

In the world of men's fashion, few clothes exude sophistication and timeless style quite like a well-fitted suit. Whether you're preparing for a job interview or a wedding, or simply prefer the smarter look, investing in the right suit is essential. However, looking through the huge number of options available can be daunting. So here is where this guide will walk you through the essential steps to ensure you purchase the perfect suit, including the increasingly popular made-to-measure option.

Understanding Suit Basics

man in suit


Before delving into how to buy the perfect man's suit, it's crucial to understand the basics of a suit. A standard suit comprises a jacket and trousers made from the same fabric, typically wool, with matching colour and pattern. Key elements to consider include the jacket's lapel style, the number of buttons, trouser fit, and overall look.

Determining Your Fit

The foundation of a great suit is the impeccable fit. When trying on suits, you need to pay attention to the shoulder fit – it should lie flat without any puckering or pulling. The jacket's length should cover the bottom area and the sleeves should end at your wrists, allowing a quarter to a half-inch of shirt cuff to peek out. Trousers should sit comfortably at your waist without sagging or pulling.

Off-the-Rack vs. Made-to-Measure

Traditionally, men have had two options when purchasing a suit: off-the-rack or bespoke. Off-the-rack suits are mass-produced in standard sizes and offer limited customisation options. While this can be a cost-effective and convenient choice, it may not provide the perfect fit for everyone, especially those that aren't an 'average' height or weight.

On the other hand, bespoke suits are entirely custom-made to your measurements and specifications. However, this level of craftsmanship often comes with a hefty price tag and lengthy production time. Fortunately, there's a middle ground: made to measure suits.

Made-to-measure suits combine the convenience of the off-the-rack options with the personalised fit of bespoke tailoring. Instead of starting from scratch, made-to-measure suits begin with pre-existing patterns that are then adjusted to your measurements. This allows for greater customisation in areas such as fabric, lapel style, buttons, and pocket placement. It can also allow for those that are short, tall, thin, or larger than average.

Steps to Buying a Made-to-Measure Suit


measuring man for suit


Research and Select a Reputable Tailor

Look for tailors or companies specialising in made-to-measure suits with a track record of quality craftsmanship and satisfied customers. Read reviews, ask for recommendations, and explore their portfolio of previous work.

Schedule a Fitting Appointment

Once you've chosen a tailor, schedule a fitting appointment. During this initial consultation, the tailor will take detailed measurements of your body, discuss your style preferences, and guide you through fabric options.

Choose Your Fabric and Design Details

Selecting the right fabric is crucial as it determines the suit's overall look, feel, and durability. Consider factors such as seasonality, occasion, and personal preference when choosing between wool, linen, cotton, or blends. Additionally, discuss design details such as lapel style, pocket type, lining material, and button options to tailor the suit to your taste.

Participate in the Fitting Process

Unlike off-the-rack suits, made-to-measure garments require multiple fittings to ensure an impeccable fit. Be prepared to attend several fitting sessions where the tailor will make adjustments based on your feedback and evolving measurements.

Finalise and Await Completion

smart suit


Once all adjustments have been made to your satisfaction, finalise the details of your suit and await its completion. While made-to-measure suits typically have a shorter turnaround time than bespoke options, it's essential to be patient as quality craftsmanship takes time. When your suit is ready, pair it with a smart pair of cufflinks, tie pin, silver ring or watch, to complete the outfit. 

Conclusion


Investing in a suit, whether off-the-rack or made-to-measure, is an investment in both style and confidence. By understanding the basics of suit construction, prioritising fit, and exploring made-to-measure options, you can ensure that your next suit purchase is a perfect fit for both your body and your lifestyle.

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The 5 Biggest Sustainability Trends of 2024

In 2024, sustainability is taking centre stage with major changes and new ideas aimed at taking better care of our planet. People all over the world are becoming more aware of climate change and the importance of saving our resources, which means there's a real push for action.

In this article, I’ll explore some important trends driving sustainability this year. From finding better ways to use renewable energy to creating economies that reuse and recycle, these trends show a shared commitment to making the world a greener place.

We'll look at how businesses are adopting eco-friendly practices, governments are making bold rules, and consumers are demanding products and services that are kinder to the environment.

Let’s dig into each trend to find out what it all means for the health of our planet and how they help ensure that future generations have a world that's healthy and thriving.

1. Renewable Energy Revolution


solar panels

The shift towards renewable energy isn't just about solar and wind power anymore. It's expanding into new technologies and sustainable practices. Alongside the familiar sources, we're now seeing exciting progress in tidal, geothermal, and biomass energy.

Tidal energy taps into ocean currents, while geothermal power harnesses the Earth's heat. Biomass energy makes use of organic materials like agricultural waste to generate clean electricity.

Embracing this variety of renewable options not only makes our energy sources more secure but also speeds up our move towards a greener future. It means that we're less dependent on fossil fuels and can do more to tackle climate change.

2. Circular Economy and Zero-Waste Living

Circular economy and zero-waste living are game-changers when it comes to how we manage resources. In this trend, from vintage markets to sustainable concrete solutions, all of it focuses on sustainability and taking care of the environment.

In a circular economy, everything from products to materials is designed to be reused, recycled, or repurposed. This means less waste and making the most out of resources throughout their entire life cycle. Zero-waste living goes even further by encouraging mindful consumption, cutting down on single-use items, and being responsible about how we throw things away.

By closing the loop on our consumption habits and promoting the idea of reusing and regenerating, these movements don't just lessen our impact on the environment but also make our economy and society stronger. Getting behind this trend is the key to building a sustainable future that’s in harmony with our planet.

3. Green Tech Innovations for a Sustainable Future

Cutting-edge green technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) are sparking a sustainable revolution, shaking up industries and making resources work more efficiently.

AI helps us use energy in a smarter way by crunching huge amounts of data, which means we can make better decisions and keep things running smoothly. Meanwhile, IoT gadgets let us keep a close eye on how we use energy, manage water, and cut down on waste in real-time, making sustainability a priority in every aspect.

Whether it's through smart energy grids or efficient farming practices, these technologies are pushing boundaries, reducing our impact on the environment, and steering us towards a more sustainable future. By putting AI and IoT to work, we're creating smarter, greener systems that lead the way to a world that's more resilient and kinder to its ecosystem.

4. The Rise of Sustainable Fashion

The fashion world is undergoing a major transformation with the rise of eco-conscious apparel. It’s changing up the traditional ways of production and putting ethics first. Brands are ditching harmful materials and choosing eco-friendly ones like organic cotton and recycled fibres.

They're also being more open about where their supplies come from to lessen their impact on the planet. Whether it's treating workers fairly or finding new ways to recycle, sustainability is becoming a big deal in how clothes are made.

People are also demanding greener options, which is changing how we shop and pushing the fashion scene towards more sustainable choices. As more people catch on, sustainable fashion isn't just a passing trend – it's a whole new mindset that's reshaping the industry for the better, making it more ethical and eco-friendly.

5. Regenerative Agriculture Techniques

Regenerative agriculture is changing the game for farming by putting the focus on healing and boosting ecosystems. Instead of just trying to maintain the old ways of farming, these methods aim to make soil healthier, protect biodiversity, and lock away carbon, which helps fight climate change and makes crops grow better.

Techniques like cover cropping, switching up what's grown in a field, and avoiding ploughing all help stop erosion, keep water in the ground, and cut down on greenhouse gases. Moreover, managing where animals graze helps keep pastures healthy and restores worn-out land.

It's not just about keeping farms healthy – regenerative agriculture actively works to give back to nature and fix up ecosystems. If done well, these practices could be a major part of solving environmental problems and making sure that there's enough food for the future.

To Sum Up

The sustainability trends of 2024 we've covered here show a united effort toward a greener and tougher future.

Whether it's through new ways to generate energy, smarter ways to use resources in a circular economy, or farming techniques that give back to the land, these trends highlight the need for urgent action to tackle environmental issues.

As businesses, governments, and people start putting sustainability first, we're realising how much our actions affect the health of the planet we live on. Getting behind these trends doesn't just help stop environmental damage – it also brings economic success and fairness to society.

By sticking with sustainable practices and finding new ways to do things, we're setting the stage for a world that's better for everyone in the long run.

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How To Pick The Perfect Colour For Your Bedroom

Picking out bedroom colours can be as easy as heading down to B&Q and selecting a few swatches to try at home, but it's easy to get things wrong and waste money on a tin of paint that looked great in a small patch but not so much everywhere else.


Read on for our no-nonsense tips on choosing the perfect bedroom colour:

Colours to Skip

colour psychology

Super bright and bold shades like intense reds, magentas, and royal blues may look cool, but they create a visual tension that makes it harder to chill out. Save those for other rooms.

On the flip side, very cold colours like stark greys, blacks, and other dark shades can make your bedroom feel unfriendly rather than warm and inviting.

Plain white seems like an easy default, but it can come across as cold, bland, and impersonal on bedroom walls. If you love white, consider using it on just 1-3 walls and livening things up with an accent colour to add visual interest.

Colours to Consider

Neutral tones are a timeless choice that emits a sense of calm and cosiness. Think soft beiges, caramels, taupe, and gentle earthy shades. Our picks: Lick 02 Brown for a mid-tone neutral or Soho Farmhouse for something lighter.

earthy colours
Pictured: Recommended earthy sample colours from Lick.com

Aquas and blues are naturally soothing and tranquil, making them one of the most popular bedroom colours. We love Farrow & Ball Selvedge (pastel blue) for a stunning light blue-green or Dulux Ink Well for a moodier affair.

blue
Pictured: Recommended blue sample colours from Dulux and Farrow and Ball (pastel blue).

Orange probably isn't the first colour you think of for bedrooms, but muted clay-like shades and soft creamsicle tints can add warmth and cheer – check out Lick Orange 04 Eggshell and Farrow & Ball No 64. Red Earth.

warm colours

Pictured: Recommended warmth sample colours from Farrow and Ball (red earth) and Lick.com.

Start With Your Bed

Your bed frame dictates what colours will work in your bedroom because it's the biggest piece of furniture. Black bed frames call for lighter wall colours and vice versa, while brass bed frames do well with strong, neutral textures.

bed


Pictured: Birlea Atlas 4FT 6 Double Metal Bed Frame – Black. Priced £249 (50% OFF at Bedstar).

If you have a bed frame in rich espresso wood or white or cream, lighter wall colours can help balance things out and keep your bedroom from feeling too heavy. On the other hand, if your bed is a pale wood or a breezy upholstered style in a light fabric, deeper wall colours can add nice contrast and visual interest.

bed


Pictured: Bedmr Chester 4FT 6 Double Wooden Bed Frame. Priced £329 (Save £114 on RRP with Bedstar).

Use the 60-30-10 Rule

The hardest part about picking out the perfect bedroom colour scheme is finding the right balance. Even if you pick out the most sumptuous colour, it can get lost in a sea of neutrals or overpower everything else.

Our favourite trick to keep everything on point is with the 60-30-10 colour rule where 60% of your room is a dominant colour like bright yellow, 30% is a secondary colour like charcoal grey, and the last 10% is an accent colour like mint green.

Mood and Ambience

Colours evoke different emotions and moods - blues and greens have calming and relaxing effects, making them ideal for a bedroom, while yellow and orange can create a warm and cosy feel perfect for the winter months.

Giving your bedroom a dark backdrop with a charcoal grey feature wall is perfect if you have a light bed frame or bright upholstery to create a sophisticated vibe. You can then add more personality with colourful décor and wall art.

60/30/10 rule

Pictured: The 60/30/10 rule, bedroom interior design colour concept, Bedstar.

Consider Lighting


Colours change under different lighting conditions. The most obvious example is the difference in colour between artificial and natural light, but you can also get very different tones with different light bulbs.

If your bedroom gets a lot of natural light, there's no risk of darker colours creating a miserable space. If your bedroom gets little natural light, lighter colours can help brighten up the space without much effort.

Complementary Textures


Smooth and rough textures go together beautifully – think smooth velvet and jute rugs, basket weave curtains and chalk paint. Rough textures add visual depth to smooth walls and ceilings to give your bedroom a stylish atmosphere.

You can also combine colours and textures with wallpaper and install décor so that it catches the sun's light in interesting ways at different times of the day.

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The Cities of Our Past Reimagined in a Modern Light

The transformation of the UK's landscape is undeniable, with cities and towns evolving dramatically. Recognisable landmarks and buildings have disappeared, leaving memories of a different era. What if we could resurrect these bygone landmarks?

Chums recent campaign employs artificial intelligence (AI) to do that precisely. Leveraging this innovative technology, they’ve reenvisioned five prominent UK landmarks, showing how they might appear today in our modern society.

Embark on a journey to rediscover the forgotten...

Liverpool Overhead Railway, Liverpool




Opened in 1893, the Liverpool Overhead Railway was initially a transportation lifeline for dock and waterfront workers. As the world's first electrically powered elevated railway, it gained recognition for its efficiency. Stretching from Herculaneum Dock (now a housing estate) to Seaforth Carriage Shed, the railway provided breathtaking views of Liverpool's landmarks. Despite its popularity, wear and tear, coupled with bomb damage during the 1940s, led to its closure in 1956.

One question stands out when thinking about this historic railway line: what if the overhead railway had remained? Imagine a revamped version with a sleek platform and a modern commuter train akin to the style of Merseyrail. Would locations like the Herculaneum Dock have remained open, or would the railway serve as an easy commute for the residents of Herculaneum Quay?

Dome of Discovery and Skylon, London

London

Constructed for the Festival of Britain in 1951, by Ralph Tubbs, the Dome of Discovery and the Skylon symbolised post-war optimism. Sadly due to the temporary nature of these inspiring constructions, both were dismantled within a year and were sold for scrap. Now fast-forward to today’s waterline and envision a modern, curved building replacing the Dome, offering stunning views of the River Thames. The iconic London Eye now occupies Skylon's spot.

Trams on Queen Street, Cardiff

Cardiff

Cardiff's transition from horse-drawn trams to electrical tramways in 1902 marked a successful shift to a modern era. Despite World War I setbacks, the tram system thrived until the 1930s. With the rise of the free-moving buses, it led to tram closures both in 1930 and 1936. With plans to reintroduce trams in 2024, AI-generated a potential picture of a contemporary tram system featuring a streamlined design, large glass windows, and a digital LED sign.

Portobello Pool, Edinburgh

Edinburgh


For over 40 years, Portobello Pool has captivated visitors with its Art Deco charm. Being able to host 1,300 bathers and 6,000 spectators and featuring the UK’s first outdoor wave-making machine, the pool was considered one of the city's crowning jewels. However, despite hosting countless galas and diving shows, its popularity waned in the 1970s and finally closed its doors for the final time in 1978, being demolished the following year. Chum’s visualisation shows what the pool could look like today. They envision a reimagined pool, preserving its Art Deco allure with clean lines and geometric design.

Margate Jetty, Kent

Kent


Built in 1824, Margate Jetty underwent numerous repairs and changes over the years. The jetty was frequently damaged by storms and even a shipwreck which marooned several people, but the jetty stood strong. During World War II, Margate Jetty served a vital role in aiding the Dunkirk evacuation. Despite being demolished in 1998, it is not hard to envision a still-standing jetty with a preserved pier head and a modern building offering panoramic views.

Our journey through the reimagined landscapes of these once-forgotten landmarks invites contemplation on the dynamic intersection of history and modernity. Infusing artificial intelligence into this visionary endeavour allows us to appreciate the past while envisaging a future that seamlessly integrates contemporary aesthetics and functionality.

The Liverpool Overhead Railway, a testament to innovation in the late 19th century, could have seamlessly transitioned into the 21st century with a sleek platform and a modernised commuter train. In London, the Dome of Discovery and Skylon's legacy lives on in a futuristic building offering panoramic views, and the iconic London Eye stands tall, capturing the essence of a bygone era.

Cardiff's trams, once a beloved mode of transport, might have evolved into a modern tram system, meeting the needs of today's commuters with style and efficiency. With its art deco charm, Edinburgh's Portobello Pool could still be a beacon of recreation, evoking nostalgia while catering to contemporary tastes.

Margate Jetty, the first iron seaside pier, might have stood resilient against time, featuring a preserved pier head and a modern building offering a vantage point over the surrounding waters.

After looking at some of these amazing results, it is clear that AI has the power to bridge the gap between historical preservation and futuristic aspirations. Whilst we can never bring back what has been lost, these innovative creations might inspire us to reflect on our past and incorporate it into future endeavours. In addition, looking back prompts us to reflect on the value of retaining our heritage while embracing innovation helping us to preserve the iconic landmarks that we still have, without losing them to progress and development. The reimagined landmarks of tomorrow are not just digital renderings; they are windows into the possibilities of a harmonious coexistence of the past and the future.

We can use AI to help us visualise what our present and future might look like if elements of our past were still around. Is there a particular lost landmark you’d like to be reimagined? Maybe try your hat at recreating a lost landmark using AI.

Share your thoughts and creations using #VisionsOfTomorrowUK.


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Things to consider before learning how to drive

Is it time to learn how to drive? Driving gives us unlimited freedom to travel when and wherever we want. However, it’s a big decision financially, so here are some things you need to think about before you get started.

Your Financial Situation

inside car

Learning how to drive can be expensive, so you need to consider whether you’re in the financial position to do so. The majority of learners need 45 lessons on average to pass and these can quickly add up when each lesson is priced anywhere between £25 to £45 per hour. Block booking lessons in advance could allow you to secure a discount.

Not to mention, there is a fee of £34 to apply for a provisional license that you can’t even practice driving without. The theory and practical tests also require a fee of £23 and £62 respectively, alongside the price of any driving test revision apps or resources you’ll need.

The Type Of Vehicle

Even if you haven’t passed your theory test yet, it’s important to consider what kind of car you’re planning on buying. Are you buying a new model or maybe you’re inheriting one? The answer will help you decide on the right vehicle to learn in. For example, there isn’t any point in learning in a manual vehicle if you plan on driving an automatic.

Some cars are better for first-time drivers than others, and you’ll also want to think about the advantages of purchasing a used vehicle over newer models. This could save your wallet a hefty payout or two, however, it could also mean you encounter more issues in the long run.

Getting Insured

driving instructor

You don’t need insurance if you’re in a driving school with a licensed instructor. On the other hand, it’s important to remember that any practice you do outside of their supervision will need to be covered. Even if you’re driving with licensed family and friends in a car that they own.

You'll need car insurance in place as a newbie learning to drive, which should also cover the adult supervising you. It is illegal to drive on the road without valid car insurance, practice or not. You could receive a fixed penalty fine of £300 alongside 6 penalty points if found driving without insurance.

Learning The Theory

driving licence


It’s easy to get caught up in the practical side of learning, but make sure that you don’t neglect your theory revision. You can’t progress onto your practical test if you fail your theory, and it costs £23 a go!

Make things easier on yourself by getting some of the theory behind you before you start lessons. This could help improve your confidence and increase your chances of passing your theory test the first time around.

So here are some things to consider before learning to drive. How old were you when you learned to drive? 

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Planning A Luxury Road Trip

Considering alternatives to a big flight across the world for your next holiday? As more and more Brits change their holiday plans due to the cost-of-living crisis, there are still plenty of options for an unforgettable break.

If you’ve never treated yourself to a luxurious road trip, 2024 could be the perfect time to try one. Here’s how to plan a tour of the sights in the UK and even beyond while treating yourself like royalty.

Choosing Your Vehicle


Mercedes

Part of the appeal of a luxury road trip is the opportunity to get behind the wheel of a vehicle you wouldn’t ordinarily drive, and nothing will get you excited about your trip more quickly than taking your first look at a car that just screams luxury.

Choosing a car to hire for the trip doesn’t just come down to aesthetics, though you should let yourself indulge on that front. Depending on where you’re planning on driving, you might need to look out for a vehicle that can handle specific kinds of terrain – if the one you really want might struggle, you could enquire about switching it to use Mercedes-branded tyres. Make sure your chosen vehicle has enough room for your luggage, as well.

Picking Out Accommodation

hotel room

While the freedom of driving for as long as you like is part of the magic of a road trip, it’s best not to leave your hotels up to the mercy of what you can find on any given day. To ensure you spend your nights with the same feeling of luxury as your days on the road, you ought to start booking accommodation as far in advance as you can to secure rooms. Knowing where you’ll end up at the end of the day allows you to plan your breaks, too.

Research Your Destinations


pacific coast highway


You won’t want to spend all your time actually on the road, of course – picking out things to do from place to place when you stop is half the fun. Start with the furthest point of your journey then start looking into promising destinations at suitable intervals between there and home. To focus on that feeling of luxury, look into the most renowned spas in the range of your journey or find that perfectly picturesque town with the best range of boutique shops to browse.

Get Insured

road
Even if you’ll be hiring a car for your holiday, it’s still vital that you have proper car insurance when you’re on the road. It’s possible to get temporary insurance for a vehicle you don’t own so if you aren’t already covered for the kind of car you’re excited to drive, make sure to arrange that in advance. If you’re planning to drive over to Europe, you’ll also need to consider travel insurance.


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