Unlock Your Formal Style Potential

Master the Art of Formal Dressing

Elevate your style and confidence with Harrison & Co.'s exclusive formalwear course. Learn the secrets to choosing, fitting, and wearing the perfect suit for any occasion.

From understanding fabrics and fit to mastering accessories and etiquette, our expert-led course provides the knowledge you need to navigate the world of formalwear with confidence.

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About the Course

Refine Your Look, Define Your Confidence

Harrison & Co. has been a cornerstone of men's formalwear in South Yarra, Melbourne, for over three generations. Founded on the principles of meticulous craftsmanship, unparalleled service, and a deep understanding of timeless style, we've dressed countless gentlemen for life's most important moments. Our mission has always extended beyond simply selling suits; we aim to equip our clients with the knowledge and confidence to wear their formal attire not just correctly, but with genuine presence and comfort.

This comprehensive course represents the distillation of decades of expertise passed down through our family and refined by our lead tailors. It's designed for anyone seeking to enhance their understanding and application of formal attire, whether you're a young professional navigating networking events, a groom preparing for his big day, someone attending significant social galas, or simply a style enthusiast looking to deepen your knowledge.

Through a blend of theoretical understanding and hands-on practical sessions conducted within the authentic environment of our South Yarra studio, participants will gain insights that are simply unavailable elsewhere. We believe that true style is about understanding the 'why' behind the rules and learning how to make them work for you. This course is suitable for both absolute beginners and those who already have a formal wardrobe but feel they could benefit from expert refinement.

You'll learn directly from the seasoned professionals who embody the Harrison & Co. legacy, gaining exclusive insights from our extensive industry experience. It's an investment not just in your wardrobe, but in your self-assurance and the impression you make in any formal setting.

What Makes Our Course Unique:

  • Expert-led instruction by formalwear specialists with decades of practical experience.
  • A strong focus on practical skills and timeless knowledge applicable to real-world situations.
  • Structured for maximum engagement, suitable for both beginners and those seeking refinement.
  • Access to exclusive insights derived from Harrison & Co.'s long-standing reputation and expertise.
Close up of hands feeling suit fabric samples, representing quality and texture

Why Enroll?

Transform Your Style, Transform Your Presence

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Boost Confidence

Walk into any room feeling completely at ease and powerful, knowing that your attire is impeccable and perfectly suited to the occasion. Confidence stems from preparedness, and this course prepares you expertly.

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Gain Expert Knowledge

Move beyond guesswork. Understand the nuances of tailoring, the feel and suitability of different fabrics, and confidently navigate complex dress codes from Black Tie to Business Formal.

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Make a Lasting Impression

Learn the crucial details – the right knot, the perfect pocket square fold, the appropriate footwear – that elevate your look and command respect in any formal or professional setting.

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Invest Wisely

Develop a keen eye for quality and versatility. Learn how to build a timeless formal wardrobe that serves you well for years, ensuring your investments in key pieces are sound.

What You Will Learn

Course Curriculum

Delve deep into the structure and design of various suit types, from single-breasted business suits to double-breasted dinner jackets. We'll dissect lapel styles (notch, peak, shawl), vent options (single, double, no vent), and trouser details. Crucially, this module focuses intensely on the principles of achieving the perfect fit – understanding measurements, identifying common fit issues, and learning how tailoring can transform an off-the-rack suit into something that feels bespoke. You'll learn what to look for when trying on a suit and how to communicate effectively with a tailor.

Explore the world of textiles used in formalwear. We'll cover the characteristics and seasonal suitability of wools (worsted, flannel), silks, linens, cottons, and modern blends. Learn to identify quality fabrics and understand their drape and wearability. Master the art of combining patterns like stripes, checks, and subtle weaves with solid colours and other patterns harmoniously, avoiding clashes and creating visual interest. We'll also discuss colour palettes appropriate for different seasons, occasions, and personal complexions.

This module dives into the essential accompaniments. Learn how to choose the right dress shirt collar and cuff style for different occasions and ties. We'll teach you classic and contemporary tie knot techniques, ensuring a neat and proportioned look. Master the art of the pocket square – folding techniques and how to select fabrics and colours that complement your suit and tie without being overly matchy. Cufflinks, tie clips, lapel pins, and other details will be covered, ensuring you understand how to use them effectively and appropriately.

Deciphering dress codes can be confusing, but this module provides clarity. We will break down the expectations for Black Tie (including variations like Creative Black Tie), White Tie (the pinnacle of formalwear), Cocktail attire, Business Formal, and other less common, yet equally important, events. Understand the specific garments, accessories, and levels of formality required for each, ensuring you are always appropriately and confidently dressed for the invitation.

No formal look is complete without the right shoes. Learn about essential dress shoe styles (Oxfords, Derbies, Loafers, Monks) and when to wear them. We'll cover leather types, colours, and the importance of polishing and care. This module also includes other finishing details like appropriate hosiery, outer garments (coats), and even personal grooming tips that contribute to an overall polished presentation. It's about ensuring every element works together seamlessly.

Protecting your investment is key to a long-lasting formal wardrobe. This final module provides practical advice on how to care for your suits, shirts, ties, and shoes. Learn about proper storage techniques (hangers, garment bags), the best methods for cleaning and pressing, dealing with common issues like wrinkles and stains, and recognizing when professional cleaning or repair is necessary. Proper care ensures your garments always look their best, extending their lifespan and maintaining their impeccable appearance.

Meet Your Instructor

Learn from Decades of Expertise

Professional headshot of Alistair Harrison, wearing a suit

Mr. Alistair Harrison

Lead Tailor & Owner, Harrison & Co. Formalwear

Alistair Harrison is the esteemed third-generation proprietor and lead tailor at Harrison & Co. Formalwear, a name synonymous with bespoke quality and timeless elegance in Melbourne's formalwear scene. Having grown up surrounded by fine fabrics, patterns, and the hum of sewing machines, Alistair inherited not just a business, but a profound passion for the craft of tailoring and the art of dressing well.

With a career spanning over 30 years, Alistair has personally overseen the creation and styling of thousands of suits, from classic business attire to intricate wedding ensembles and high-society formalwear. His expertise is rooted in a deep understanding of the human form, the behaviour of different textiles, and the subtle language of style. He believes that a well-fitted suit is more than just clothing; it's a form of self-expression and a powerful tool for confidence.

This course is Alistair's way of sharing his accumulated wisdom. He is dedicated to demystifying formalwear, empowering individuals to make informed choices, and helping them achieve a level of style that truly reflects their personality and enhances their presence. Participants will benefit directly from his practical insights, personal anecdotes, and patient guidance, gaining a mentor as well as an instructor.

What Our Clients Say

Trusted by Those Who Value Style

Ready to Elevate Your Style?

Enroll in the Mastering Formal Style Course

Secure your spot in our highly sought-after formalwear course intake. We intentionally keep class sizes limited to ensure every participant receives personalised attention and direct interaction with our expert instructor, Alistair Harrison. This focused environment is key to achieving real mastery of the principles and techniques taught.

Don't miss this unique opportunity to gain the confidence and knowledge that comes with truly understanding formal attire. Whether you're aiming to impress at your next major event, refine your professional image, or simply appreciate the art of dressing well, this course is a valuable investment in yourself. The next intake is approaching, and spaces fill quickly.

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Enrollment Details

  • Next Intake Starts: October 26th, 2024
  • Duration: 4 Weeks (Evening Sessions)
  • Format: In-Person at Harrison & Co. Studio, South Yarra
  • Investment: $495 AUD

Frequently Asked Questions

Your Questions Answered

This course is primarily designed for gentlemen who wish to deepen their understanding and application of formal and semi-formal menswear. It's ideal for professionals looking to enhance their corporate image, individuals preparing for weddings or significant social galas (like races, black-tie events, or awards nights), students completing their education and preparing for the professional world, or simply anyone with an interest in elevating their personal style and feeling more confident in formal settings. No prior knowledge of tailoring or fashion is required; we cover the fundamentals and build from there.

While you are absolutely welcome and encouraged to bring items from your own existing wardrobe for personalised advice and feedback during relevant modules (like fit or accessory pairing), it is certainly not a requirement to participate. We will have a comprehensive selection of sample garments, fabrics, accessories, and visual aids available in the studio for demonstration purposes and practical learning sessions. The focus is on gaining knowledge and skills, not on assessing your current wardrobe.

We are committed to providing a high-quality, interactive, and personalised learning experience. To achieve this, we intentionally keep our class sizes small. The exact number can vary slightly between intakes, but it is always limited to ensure that every participant has ample opportunity to ask questions, receive individual feedback, and engage directly with Alistair and the materials. This isn't a large lecture hall; it's a hands-on, workshop-style environment.

While many of the core principles covered – such as understanding fabric quality, colour coordination, occasion appropriateness, and general styling concepts – are universal and applicable to both men's and women's formal attire, the primary focus, specific garment examples, fitting demonstrations, and tailoring discussions in this course are specifically tailored towards men's formalwear, including suits, tuxedos, shirts, ties, etc. Women interested in learning about men's formalwear are welcome, but the content will not cover women's specific formal attire like evening gowns or tailored dresses.

We strive to make the enrollment process as convenient as possible. We accept payment via major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) and direct bank transfer. Full payment details and instructions will be provided to you upon successful submission of your enrollment application or inquiry. Please contact us directly via the form below or phone if you have specific questions about payment arrangements.

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Have Questions About the Course?

We understand you might have further questions about the Mastering Formal Style course, its content, suitability, or the enrollment process. Please feel free to reach out to us directly. Our knowledgeable team is here to provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about investing in your style education.

Phone: (03) 9876 5432

Email: info@harrisonco.com.au

Address:
Harrison & Co. Formalwear
412 Chapel Street
South Yarra, VIC 3141
Australia

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