Where is best for White Tie (the dress code) hire in the UK (North West especially)

[JammieDodger]

Hi,

I have to wear white tie to my PhD defence. I will be buying a shirt, MTM, shoes and the bow-tie myself. However, that still lives me with the trousers, evening tailcoat and white waistcoat. The main thing is that it fits well - I was wondering if there are any recommendations in the UK for rentals that will measure me correctly etc. ? Moreover, I assume places like Moss Bros are awful - is this correct and is there anywhere else I should avoid? If it is in the North West, or a chain, then that would help immensely. Thank you!

 

[Thin White Duke]

Jaysus! What's your doctorate in? Ballroom dancing or orchestra conducting?

 

[JammieDodger]

I wouldn't have it this way if I could! White tie looks nice, but, I think it lessens the seriousness of something that should be a discussion about the work. Anyway, my PhD is in The Netherlands, at a University which is overly worried about appearing too young - so White Tie is in the defence regulations. In comparison, older universities do not have such regulations.

So, there you go! It's not even held in the evening...

p.s. the PhD is in logic-based Artificial Intelligence, I can't think of something less suitable for formal wear.