Bhavnesh Narotam of Benze Tailors, who opens the doors to the family’s new store in uMhlanga on July 15, provided a gentleman’s guide to the Vodacom Durban July. Lifestyle reports
Ben Narotam established Benze Tailors in 1989, with the intention of setting up his own Savile Row-style business in the heart of Durban.
It has since garnered a national clientele, with a penchant for Italian design.
With next generation Bhavnesh Narotam at the reins, a ready-to-wear line from Europe was introduced.
Bhavnesh says: “Bespoke custom-made suits for men remain at the heart of our business as we enjoy dressing the distinctive man who wants to make a mark in the world.
“A bespoke suit is measured and made for you, taking in all the nuances of your body and gait. The tailor's eye is born out of years of experience and the suit is hand-crafted for you, from start to finish.
“As a family business with repeat clients, we pride ourselves on quality workmanship and excellent after-care service that includes everything from laundry to seasonal wardrobe overhauls.
You can find the new boutique store in uMhlanga, at the Coastlands Hotel complex called Gatemax.
* If you’re dressing to impress it’s worth noting that the current trend is a complete suit rather than co-ordinated pieces. In other words your jacket and pants should be cut from the same cloth.
* If you’re contrasting, I suggest your lapel, bow tie, and shoes match.
In this case your waistcoat and trousers should be the same colour, as once your jacket is off, this serves as a second outfit.
* Ideally your flower lapel pin should contrast your bow tie or tie (the tip of which should touch the top of where a belt would sit). Rather than overtly matching your partner’s outfit, let the lapel flower be your co-ordinating piece, for a more subtle effect.
* The shirt you select, is all about the collar. If you want a professional finish opt for a cutaway collar at 90 degrees.
* It’s all about quality, so opt for a more sophisticated shade and ensure you select the best thread. Superfine wool is ideal for winter and speaks of luxury. You can’t go wrong with colours such as burgundy and black.
* I’m leaning towards the streamlined one-button suit. As a rule of thumb, the button should close at your navel. Short-length jackets are in, but rather get tailored than trendy when it comes to proportion. This applies to those with a chiselled physique as well. Suits in regular sizes are not made to accommodate gigantic chests and tiny waists.
* While the look is smooth and streamlined overall, the slim design is gone. Bigger, bolder lapels are back in. As are bigger ties.
* The slim fit trousers are on trend. They should end neatly on the rim of the shoe. You can do without a belt this season, straight front self-adjusted trousers are in. No loops, no fuss.
* Shoes and a timepiece (rose gold perhaps) are your luxe accessories. A popular shoe is the double monk strap loafer. It is of course handmade and is I suggest black patent leather which will stand up to the grass at Greyville.
* Keep the look clean. If you want to show some personality, happy socks and other colourful offers are an option. Polka dots are big this year.
* If you’re aiming to follow the theme and dress as the leader of the pack, steer clear of a cheesy ensemble. Stay slick and sophisticated at the racecourse this year.