From suits crafted using eco-friendly fabrics and methods to hire services, vintage wear and second-hand options, the modern groom is spoilt with clever ready-to-wear, tailor-made investments, and pre-loved options all with a gratifyingly benevolent twist.

The Ultra Suit by Tranzend is a waterproof, anti-odour, ultra-stretchable, wrinkle-free, breathable and UV protected two-piece suit and white shirt, or as the innovative creators say: 'sartorial aesthetics, sophisticated technology and environmental sustainability combined into a single two-piece suit for all occasions.' Ethically produced from recycled plastic bottles and coffee grounds, the suit seamlessly blends function, form and eco-friendliness and can sustainably be worn on multiple occasions, whatever the event and season.

 

Hiring your suit is an obvious 'green' choice, though the specifics can have greater impact, for example, a wool suit scores extra sustainability points since it's naturally biodegradable, while narrowing your selection to local or UK-made brands reduces your carbon footprint (and ensures quality control to boot!)

Skopes

'Both of our hire companies have state-of-the-art eco-friendly dry-cleaning processes that are kind to the cloth as well as the environment,' reveals Alan Walker from Cornwall Suit Room (cornwallsuitroom.co.uk). 'Our own dry cleaners use a wool mark-approved lagoon cleaning system by Electrolux where no solvents are used, and all products are biodegradable for chemical-free drainage.'

One of their stockists, Skopes, boasts a history of social responsibility. 'How to minimise our business's impact on our environment has been something on our radar for quite a while,' they declare while launching a new collection of sustainably sourced suits made in partnership with Lyfcycle.

Meanwhile, if you do opt to buy, try to select something with a multi-purpose or timeless element, such as a tweed jacket, tartan, or checks that can be dressed down after the event with jeans, or worn with chinos to other formal celebrations. 

'Most of our waistcoats and neckwear are made by Heirloom Waistcoats and Anthony Formal Wear; both companies are proud to be still making them in Great Britain,' adds Alan.

Torre

A crisp shirt is integral to a groom's ensemble, so choose wisely by considering quality, cut and conscientiousness. Arthur & Henry's organic cotton shirts are the style-meets-substance solution. Their cotton comes from certified Fairtrade organic farming groups, which means that apart from the environmental benefits of farming organically, the farmers also receive a financial boost by being part of a support organisation. 

To achieve a classic look, pick their white or blue Chislet double cuff shirt in a fine herringbone weave, or white Oxford weave shirt with or without a button-down collar for a slightly more relaxed look. For grooms desiring something with an extra dash of panache, the blue or pink striped organic cotton shirt with a contrast floral trim is a slimmer fitting, eye-catching choice. All shirts are cut longer so they don't come un-tucked and have horizontal bottom buttonholes to prevent splaying, while signature but discreet orange detailing provides an extra luxe touch.

With the fashion industry experiencing a shift in priorities and practices, Theory's Good Collection is a prime example of today's environmental refocus. 'With the initial goal of making our signature fabrics 100% traceable by 2025, we have begun the work of transforming the way we produce our clothes,' announce the fashion philanthropists. 'We are especially proud that in addition to representing the exceptional quality that defines Theory, our 'Good' fabrics are ethically sourced and developed in collaboration with fabric mills at the forefront of sustainable manufacturing.'

The result? Good-looking grooms dressed in do-good clothing for more kind-hearted fashion. Peruse their capsule collection for the latest finds: we think their Nordic blue Bowrey blazer in Good Wool pairs perfectly with their white Sylvain shirt in Good Cotton, while their Smoke coloured Clinton Blazer in Good Linen looks and feels swoon-worthily cool.

words Hannah May