Bucks Fizz Eurovision Anniversary!

As Eurovision rears it head again next month it reminds me that it was 35 years ago this year that Bucks Fizz won for the UK with an iconic performance of ‘Making Your Mind Up’ where the girls had their skirts ripped off mid song! They went on to sell over 15 million records and the winning song was No1 in 9 countries.

I remember watching the show that night and was a bit of a fan, so you can imagine my delight when I was commissioned five years ago to make suits for a performance at The London Palladium to celebrate 30 years since their win for 3 of the group; Cheryl, Mike & Jay. I used the colour palette from the original stage clothes to create a more sophisticated tailored look that was more in tune with them as performers now.

To add showbiz pizzaz I used hundreds of Swarovski crystals & embroidery to create an emblem on the back of each jacket. When they turned their backs to the audience the huge super trouper lights would bring alive the outfits with real glitter and glory!!

The original three are now working with Bobby McVay of Eurovision’s Sweet Dreams (who were our entry the year after Bucks Fizz won) and I have the enviable task of creating a new suit for him with a crystal & embroidery emblem of his name on the back. You see the other 3 suits are still going strong. That’s the beauty of a bespoke garment, just like a good tune, it never goes out of fashion.

If you look at the top photos I can reveal a few tricks of my trade; the extreme slanted pocket are a great way of sliming in the waist when combined with a peak lapel that highlights the elegant shoulder line. Fabric covered buttons add a touch of classic sophistication to the garments. All the jackets feature working cuffs and each member has their name embroidered on the inside.

However, just don’t take my word for it… why not see the iconic group and outfits on their new nationwide tour called ‘The Make Believe Tour’.

Stephen

formerlyofbucksfizz.com

Grooms, it’s time to make a statement!

Your wedding day is one of the key moments in any couples relationship, and in days of old it was primarily all about the bride’s dress but times have changed in so many ways and statements are being made by the groom or grooms.

For some it can be the only time when the gent’s suit is not off the peg and it’s the perfect excuse to splash out and indulge in a one off piece, which, unlike a traditional wedding dress a bespoke wedding suit can be used time and time again.

Obviously you are more limited in alternative occasions to wear the traditional morning suit but a more contemporary garment in the right colour & style is timeless.

What I aim to do is ensure that any special details from the day are incorporated in the suit and any specific request from the bride or groom is included. Whether that be the colour of a lining that matches to the flowers or bridesmaids dress, your partners favourite colour or even picks up on the design of the invite.

Colour can also be used in contrast stitching, flash inserts or even buttons to make it stand out from a more typical work suit. Having the date embroidered on your garment means you will never forget your anniversary. I was even once asked to embroider “I give it a year!”.

The variations are endless and a more contemporary fabric can be perfect for the big day and also for work or weekends after. Jeans and a jacket are a classic look and the waistcoat from the suit can be worn with a blazer or another suit to keep the memory of the big day alive.

The whole process of having something designed should be part of the celebration, an experience to treasure and enjoy as you indulge in the luxury world of bespoke suiting. You can’t put a price on love.

Stephen