As the days have become shorter over the past few months, you’ve likely been pushing your summer essentials back to the dark recesses of your wardrobe. Roll-sleeved tees have been swapped for long-sleeved merino knits and super lightweight bombers have been packed away as woollen overcoats and shearling jackets take precedence.

Now, with the festive season truly upon us – accompanied, of course, by its glut of obligatory formal parties – it’s time to dust off that tux and smarten up your act. Luckily, with designers and brands placing elegant formal wear at the forefront of their offerings this season, there’s no shortage of options to get yourself well and truly spruced up for the holiday party circuit.

In this round-up, we take a close look at the need-to-know brands that’ll help you leave a lasting impression at any gathering…

6 British Brands To Know For The Party Season

1. Richard James

Credited with rejuvenating the once stuffy and elitist Savile Row, Richard James established his eponymous label in 1992 and steadily earned a reputation for winning designs that blend traditional tailoring techniques with a modern sensibility.

Arguably celebrated most for his clever use of colour, James is at the forefront of today’s contemporary tailoring movement.

Web: www.richardjames.co.uk

Richard James AW14 Collection

The AW14 collection typifies the brand’s signature tradition and modernity with its sleek cuts and intelligent pairing of fabrics and accessories. James is exemplary in demonstrating the versatility of tailoring, mixing and matching fabrics and colors to break up the formality of a traditional suit – a technique that is also evident in its unique evening wear offering.

Inspired by the ‘New Edwardians’ of the 1950s, the collection tips a brim to dandy dressing and the self-expression that defined a new era of post-war dressing.