We are proud to have been featured in The Times in a recent article exploring a topic we have long believed in at Alexandra Wood Bespoke Tailoring: dressing down is bad for business and the suit still matters.
As workplaces continue to redefine what professional looks like, The Times argues that the pendulum may have swung too far towards casual dressing and that intentional, well cut tailoring is once again becoming a strategic advantage in business. It is a perspective we wholeheartedly share.
The Cost of Over Casual Workwear
In the post pandemic era, offices embraced relaxed dress codes at speed. Trainers, hoodies, and athleisure became everyday workwear, often in the name of comfort and culture.
But as The Times highlights, the unintended consequence has been a dilution of professional presence. When everything feels casual, authority, confidence, and credibility can quietly erode, especially in client facing roles, leadership positions, and high stakes environments.
At Alexandra Wood, we have always believed that what you wear does not just change how others see you. It changes how you show up.
Why We Believe Tailoring Still Matters
In our contribution to The Times, we spoke about the psychological and professional impact of dressing with intention. A well made suit is not about outdated formality. It is about clarity, confidence, and self respect.
A bespoke suit sharpens posture and presence, signals seriousness and authority, creates a clear mental shift into business mode, and helps the wearer feel prepared, capable, and composed.
These are not abstract ideas. We see it every day in our Savile Row showroom. Clients stand taller, speak differently, and move with confidence the moment they put on a suit made specifically for them.
Why The Times Thinks Dressing Down Is Bad for Business – And What That Means for Savile Row Bespoke Tailoring
Savile Row Craftsmanship, Modern Thinking
As a modern Savile Row tailoring house, our approach has never been about rigid tradition for tradition’s sake. Instead, we focus on bespoke tailoring that works for contemporary life.
This means suits designed for real working days, not just boardrooms. Softer constructions where appropriate, without sacrificing structure. Thoughtful cloth choices that balance elegance with comfort. Tailoring that feels empowering, not restrictive.
This philosophy aligns perfectly with The Times’ central argument. The future of professional dress is not about going backwards. It is about dressing with purpose.
The Return of Intentional Dressing
As competition in business increases and in person meetings regain importance, appearance is once again part of the conversation. Not as vanity, but as strategy.
A bespoke suit does not shout. It communicates quietly but clearly.
It says you take yourself seriously, you respect the occasion, and you understand the power of presence.
That is why we believe the suit has not disappeared. It is simply evolving. And as The Times suggests, many professionals are rediscovering its value.
What This Means for Today’s Professionals
Whether you are a founder, executive, or ambitious professional, your wardrobe is part of your personal brand. In moments that matter such as pitches, presentations, negotiations, and leadership, how you dress still influences outcomes.
At Alexandra Wood Bespoke Tailoring, our role is to ensure your clothing supports your goals, not undermines them.
Being featured in The Times reinforces what we have always known. Dressing well is not about nostalgia. It is about intention, confidence, and success.
