Donna Serino

Choosing your winter wedding groom suit doesn’t have to be stressful.

Winter weddings evoke a magical ambiance with their crisp air, glistening snow, and cozy celebrations. As brides steal the spotlight with their stunning winter gowns, grooms have the perfect opportunity to showcase their style with refined winter fashion.

Whether you are choosing a wedding suit rental or investing in a formal wedding tuxedo, there is fortunately a  large selection of wedding suites to choose from. In this guide, we will explore the essential elements for a dapper winter groom, from color palette choices to weather-appropriate accessories.

Your Winter Wedding Groomswear Guide

Choosing the Right Color Palette

There are several different factors that go into choosing the right color palette. Often, winter weddings embrace the colors of the season; shades that not only compliment the seasonal surroundings, but also exude elegance. 

• Deep Blues: Navy or midnight blue suits and tuxedos evoke a sense of sophistication

• Forest Greens: Deep, rich greens add a touch of nature’s charm

• Burgundy: A deep, warm burgundy brings a sense of opulence and romance 

• Charcoal Gray: A versatile and timeless choice, charcoal gray exudes understated elegance

• Eggplant Purple: For a regal touch, consider eggplant purple

• Chocolate Brown: A warm and inviting choice, chocolate brown suits or tuxedos create a cozy and intimate atmosphere

• Icy Blues: Lighter shades of blue, resembling icy tones, bring a cool and refreshing aesthetic

• Black with Accents: Classic black suits or tuxedos adorned with silver or gold accents can add a touch of glamour and formality 

• Cranberry Red: Vibrant and festive, cranberry red is an unexpected pop of color

Of course, a wedding’s color palette really comes down to the couple’s taste and individuality. And when in doubt, you cannot go wrong with classic neutrals like black and white.

Find the Perfect Winter Suit Fabric

If you live in the New York metro area, it is safe to assume your wedding will be indoors. Even so, you may take a few pictures outside. Choosing an amazing fabric for your winter wedding suit or tuxedo is pivotal in achieving both style and comfort. 

• Wool: A perennial favorite for winter, wool suits and tuxedos offer not only warmth but also a refined texture. Opt for a medium to heavyweight wool fabric, such as tweed or flannel, for a classic and timeless appeal.

• Velvet: Elevate your winter look with the opulence of velvet. Velvet suits or tuxedos add a luxurious touch and are ideal for formal winter affairs. 

• Cashmere Blend: For the ultimate in comfort and luxury, a cashmere blend suit or tuxedo is a superb choice. The softness of cashmere combined with other materials like wool ensures both warmth and a sumptuous feel. 

• Mohair: If you’re seeking a winter suit fabric that effortlessly blends elegance with breathability, mohair is an excellent choice. Known for its lightweight and breathable properties, a mohair suit or tuxedo provides comfort without sacrificing style. 

• Brocade or Jacquard: For those embracing a more lavish winter wedding theme, consider brocade or jacquard fabrics. These intricate weaves create visually appealing patterns and textures, making them perfect for a formal winter soirée. Choose deep, jewel-toned colors to enhance the regal feel.

Tuxedo and Groom Suit Ideas

Choosing the right wedding outfit is dependent on the type of wedding. (This also is a good rule of thumb for a wedding guest as well.) Deciding between a suit and a tuxedo depends on the formality of the event (and personal taste). Traditional style or a formal evening wedding calls for a tuxedo. Of course, a three-piece suit also elevates a groom’s look; this would easily be appropriate for a semi-formal winter wedding. A more casual wedding or daytime wedding may require less formality. 

• Traditional tuxedo or suit – For a black-tie wedding, your choices are pretty limited. Consider a classic, formal look. This attire is typically a black or darker color jacket with matching trousers, a white shirt, and a bowtie or necktie. Of course, you can add a pop of color to embrace wedding colors. (A french cuff shirt really can elevate your outfit.)

• Destination wedding attire – Escaping your area’s cold winter? Do yourself the favor and choose light and airy clothing especially with a more casual dress code. Depending on when and where you’ll be celebrating, you’ll want breathable fabrics. Linen, seersucker suits, short-sleeved shirts, and light-colored shoes are all great ideas for beach weddings.

• Rustic or bohemian wedding attire – Try a relaxed, earthy wardrobe that is suitable for a more laid-back, outdoor wedding event. Think denim shirts, suspenders, and brown leather shoes. As it’s winder, you may want to choose a heavier lined jacket, sweater, and/or layers.

• Military uniform – For grooms who are active or former military personnel, they can opt to wear their dress uniform as a symbol of their service.

Of course, a well-tailored suit can also exude a level of sophistication and charm. With a suit, you can dress it up and down with the right button-down shirt, tie, and other accessories. Pay attention to styling details like lapels and buttons to achieve the perfect winter look. Always choose a wedding style suit that you feel comfortable wearing.

Consider Seasonal Accessories

Whether it’s your wedding day or a winter day, accessories can add a special touch to your look. 

• Silk ties and pocket squares
• Soft, leather gloves
• Cashmere printed scarf (also makes a great wedding party gift!)

Don’t forget about a seasonal berry boutonniere – a small detail that ties the entire look together.

Proper Footwear Selection

When it comes to winter wedding groom fashion, selecting the right footwear is paramount for both style and practicality. Here are some options you may wish to choose from:

• Stylish Boots: Opt for stylish boots that not only complement your chosen attire but also provide the necessary insulation for colder temperatures. Leather or suede boots in darker tones like deep brown or black can add a touch of sophistication to your overall look.

• Formal Shoe Choices: If the wedding attire leans towards the formal side, classic formal shoes remain a timeless choice. Ensure they are weather-resistant to tackle any unexpected winter weather challenges.

• Consider Ankle or Chelsea Boots: Ankle or Chelsea boots offer a stylish alternative, providing a contemporary and sleek look. They not only pair well with suits but also offer additional ankle support. Opt for darker shades for a classic winter vibe.

Remember, your choice of footwear is more than a practical consideration – it’s a key component in completing your winter wedding look. Whether it’s elegant boots, classic formal shoes, or a stylish blend of both, the right footwear ensures you step into your wedding day with both style and confidence.

Complete Your Winter Wedding Groom Look

So you’ve completed your walk down the aisle and reception look. However, you may have missed one key item – your outerwear. Even if you do not think you need a coat, you probably do.

• • Overcoat: A staple in men’s formal fashion, overcoats are available in various lengths and materials, such as wool or cashmere. 

  • Peacoat: A timeless choice for men’s formal outerwear, peacoats are double-breasted and offer a shorter length. Ideal for colder weather, they effortlessly combine style and warmth, making them suitable for various formal events.

  • Tuxedo Cape: Specifically designed for formal occasions, a tuxedo cape provides a unique and elegant layering option for men, enhancing the overall style quotient of the groom or wedding party.

  Choosing the right formal outerwear for men involves considering the formality of the event, the season, and personal style preferences.

Winter Wedding Groom Suit Care

It is rare that you purchase clothing that fits you. And it shouldn’t. We are meant to buy garments – and then have them tailored to fit our bodies. This simple reminder should make shopping a little bit easier. Hint – Hallak offers tailoring and alterations at both locations. (How nice is that?)

Prior to your wedding, you may be in need of tailoring and/or restyling of your fashion. If you are rewearing or renting items, a pre-wedding cleaning may also be a priority. After our big day, schedule your pick-up for post-wedding care. Hallak’s team will be sure to clean and finish your fashion. We are a trusted name among fashion enthusiasts, designer garment boutiques, and designers.

Last Thoughts on Winter Weddings Groomswear

In addition to looking your best, it is important that you take into consideration what weather you may be dealing with. Rain, snow…these can easily ruin a look without some preparation.

The winter season usually requires heavier and warmer clothing materials such as wool o cashmere, which are ideal for keeping cozy. Of course, you may be dancing so layers are key! 

In addition to providing warmth, winter wedding grooms fashion also can incorporate functional features such as waterproofing, wind-resistant materials, and fur trim. Fortunately, there are plenty of cold-weather friendly footwear designed with thicker soles and insulation to keep the feet warm and dry. Just make sure they are stylish OR you have something more stylish to change into.

Questions about the pre or post winter wedding groom suit care? Contact us today.

Wondering how to fold a sweater?

Well, the experts at Hallak Cleaners are here to help.  As the temperatures drop, we find ourselves turning to our cozy sweaters more and more. However, the simple act of caring for these pieces is often overlooked.

Our team believes that understanding the nuances of sweater care is paramount to preserving their softness, shape, and lifespan. Let’s unravel the simple steps of proper sweater folding techniques.

Why Fold Your Sweater

At Hallak, we highly recommend folding your sweater instead of hanging it on a hanger. Sweaters are prone to stretching when hung. Hanging also leads to unsightly clothes hanger bumps and misshapen shoulders. So if possible, always store your sweater flat and make ample storage space for your collection.

Folding, on the other hand, allows sweaters to retain their natural form. Over time, gravity can cause sweaters on hangers to lose its shape over time when suspended; this is especially true with your heavier knits.

By neatly folding your sweater and storing it flat, you not only preserve its original fit but also minimize the risk of wrinkles and creases. With cashmere and wool, it is particularly important to properly store them.

What You’ll Need

You don’t have to be a professional organizer to have a beautiful, curated wardrobe.

Before folding, start with the number one thing – clean hands free of any residual dirt or our natural oils. Next, you will need a flat surface – and make sure it’s also a clean surface.

For the best everyday sweater storage, there are a few more items you may wish to consider:

• Acid-free tissue paper. It acts a gentle barrier between folds and prevents creases.
• Breathable garment bags. For extra protection, these garment bags offer an extra level of protection against dust, moths, and other potential outside hazards.

Step-by-step Guide to Sweater Folding

1. Lay your sweater on the flattest surface for folding
2. Smooth out any wrinkles or unwanted creases
3. Fold sweater sleeves inward; they should align with the sides
4. Fold the bottom hem up; this will create a neat rectangle
5. At this step, place acid-free tissue paper between the folds
6. Place your folded sweater in a breathable garment bag

Schedule your pick-up today.

Additional Sweater Folding Method Tips

Keep your favorite sweaters in pristine condition.

Cashmere, wool, and other delicate fabrics demand a more nuanced approach to protect their luxurious texture and appearance. When dealing with these sweaters, opt for a gentler touch and smooth out the fabric rather than pressing hard folds. For chunkier sweaters, choose a looser fold to maintain elasticity. Woven sweaters appreciate a more defined fold for structure.T

o properly store open sweater cardigans and those with zippers, always fold as well. Lay the sweater flat, fold each sleeve inward across the back. Next, fold the sweater in half vertically and again horizontally (if needed). For zippered cardigans, zip them up before folding to maintain shape.

Regardless of the type of sweater, store them in a cool, dry place. As you may already know, excess heat and humidity can lead to mold, mildew, and unwanted odors.

Proper Sweater Care

As a dry cleaner, it is important to stress how important it is to properly care for all garments including your sweaters. When it comes to sweaters,  people tend to wear them repeatedly prior to cleaning. And that’s totally okay!

Here are a few tips you may wish to try:

1. 1. Base Layers: Try a lightweight, breathable base layer. This layer acts as a barrier, absorbing sweat and preventing it from directly reaching your sweater. Depending on your sweater thickness, choose a layer that works best for both warmth and protection. By doing so, you may be able to wear your sweater a few times prior to cleaning.
   2. Read the care label (carefully): Unfortunately, sweaters are a common garment that come in post-home cleaning. While we are able to ‘reverse’ some damage, it is best to follow the care label from the beginning. Why chance damage such as shrinkage, pulls, and other issues?
   3. Regular Maintenance: After every wear, inspect your sweater top-to-bottom. Look for spots and other trouble areas. Don’t allow stains to settle in or pulls to worsen. In addition, brush your sweaters regularly with a soft garment brush; this will remove lint, hair and other surface debris. (Use a sweater shaver sparingly.)

Worn your sweater a few times or found some trouble areas? Schedule your dry cleaning pick-up.

Protect Your Sweater Investment

As you can see, folding your sweater isn’t too tricky. However, it is a step that many of us skip.

We encourage you, like we do our clients, to take those extra few minutes to inspect, fold, and properly store. This will help preserve your sweater’s look and extend its lifetime. You invest in your sweaters so they’re worth investing a little time to properly care for them.

By incorporating these practical steps above into your routine, you not only enhance your wardrobe but also contribute to the sustainability of your favorite garments.

You have to love that! Considering a closet reorganization? You’ll love our everyday and seasonal clothing storage article!

Remember, the fold is indeed mightier than the hanger, and thoughtful care leads to enduring style. If your sweater is ready for cleaning, schedule your pick-up today.

Now  more than ever, it is important to explore the innovations in customer service. It’s a time that customer care is undergoing a profound transformation. And in the world of dry cleaning, we stand at the forefront of innovation, weaving together technology, sustainability, and personalized experiences to redefine the garment care.

Join us on a journey into the heart of the dry cleaning industry, where the traditional meets the avant-garde, as we explore the cutting-edge innovations propelling customer service to new heights. Passionate Hallak customer care is our motto this year – and every year.

Customer Service Trends

1. Seamless Digital Experiences:

As a family-owned and operated couture dry cleaner, we have personally seen the many iterations of  pick-up receipts, invoices, etc. Gone are the days of paper receipts and long waiting lines. Today, our dry cleaning stores embrace digital innovation to offer you seamless experiences. From Hallak’s mobile app for convenience to real-time tracking of cleaning progress, the integration of technology ensures that every touchpoint is as smooth as our freshly pressed linen.

2. Personalized Garment Care:

You don’t get to be one of a select few of dry cleaners to become a certified cleaners without treating each garment on an individual basis. With advancements in fabric analysis technology, other dry cleaners are starting to join in the way we care for fabric care. This means tailoring their cleaning processes to the unique needs of each garment, ensuring not only cleanliness but also the preservation of quality and longevity.

In addition, Hallak offers our clients the ability to update their account with custom preferences.  For example, here are some options customers choose to personalize their accounts with:

-Box shirt laundry

-Fold linens over hanger

-GreenEarth solvent

These types of changes can be made by emailing, calling, or updating your account with the Hallak app.

3. Eco-Friendly Practices:

Sustainability is not just a trend; it’s a responsibility. Innovative dry cleaners are adopting eco-friendly practices, from using environmentally conscious cleaning agents to implementing water-saving technologies. This commitment to sustainability not only aligns with the values of conscious consumers but also contributes to a cleaner and greener planet.

Hallak was the first GreenEarth cleaner in Manhattan. Additionally, we have been recognized with many environmental awards. Along with following the proper rules and regulations, we go above and beyond to ensure safety is always first. We are a part of your community and take that responsibility very greatly.

4. Quality Assurance through Technology:

Innovative dry cleaners leverage technology for more than just convenience; they use it to ensure quality assurance. RFID tags and tracking systems allow customers to monitor the status and location of their garments in real-time. This level of transparency instills confidence and trust, setting a new standard for accountability in the dry cleaning industry.

Hallak was a very early adopter of the Metalprogetti system; this conveyor belt equipment is integrated with our CRM. During the garment itemizing stage, each item is coded with an invoice number that allows items to easily be tracked. Through this coding, we can locate any piece at any stage – cleaning, pressing, packaging, hanging in the NY store, on a truck with a driver, etc.  Our drivers’ phones have a scanner that is used to scan items at the exact time of delivery with additional information provided. For an example, a typical delivery update may show “1:33pm DM”; this states that the garments were delivered at 1:33pm and left with the doorman.

Shirt laundry and other repeat garments are tagged with the smallest RFID tag. This tag contains all the information regarding your clothing including its description, owner, and previous care.

Your Trusted Local Cleaners

For over 58 years, Hallak has been a trusted dry cleaners in the New York Metropolitan area. While it started in Manhattan, a secondary store in Bergen County was build decades ago. This is actually adjacent to our award winning plant. Today, we are happy to also serve North Jersey, Greenwich, and Westchester. (In the summers, we even visit the Hamptons since everyone loves the beach!)

Customer Service Goals

Over the decades, many walk-ins (and pick-ups) end up becoming long-standing customers (and friends). Our customer service team takes our family mentality very strongly.

Fabulous customer experience speaks volumes and we understand that. When a client leaves our store, it is our goal to have them leaving feeling their very best. You should feel confident in knowing your wardrobe is receiving the very finest in fabric care. It is why are always looking for ways to improve customer journeys which results in customer loyalty.

Questions? Concerns? Please feel comfortable enough to ask questions, point out any possible issues, etc. Therefore, allowing Hallak’s team the opportunity to make things right. A customer’s voice should be hard – and we are ready to listen.

Hallak Cleaners’ ‘family’ prides themselves on being team-oriented. Together, it is the team’s responsibility to provide you with the very best in customer service. If you are a current or former customer and have suggestions, please feel free to email info@hallak.com. Here is to a new year together – with you!

Our Hallak customer care team look forward to speaking with you so feel free to call or email us today.

Updated November 4, 2024

What is your go-to holiday fashion? Casual, formal, always full-on glam,…?

This season is always creates a whirlwind for your social calendar – family gatherings, non-profit galas, work holiday parties, Christmas events, and an unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebration!

And each event requires its own specific dress code with a holiday flair. While some events will let you know, you can often be left wondering what to wear. Of course, you want to look like yourself but sometimes we just want to elevate your look a bit. With whatever your approach to holiday dressing is, let’s take a look at some fashionable holiday fashion ideas.

Time to dive into this year’s trends and go-to holiday fashion trends!

2024 Holiday Fashion Trends

‘Tis the season to dress up and party! As the holiday invitations come in, you may be looking at your closet for a holiday party outfit and planning a party season shopping trip. (Just remember to allow time for alterations and tailoring.) Here are a bunch of the hottest holiday trends to help you throughout the season:

Holiday Season Formal Events

Formal events such as gala or black tie affair calls for special attention to the dress code. Let’s take a look at some formal holiday wardrobe ideas:

• Full-length evening gown (e.g. sequins, lace-trimmed, etc.)
• Classic little black dress (LBD) (below-the-knee)
• Jewel-tone velvet jumpsuit
• Classic black tuxedo
• Velvet dinner jacket
• White tie ensemble

Casual Family Gathering Holiday Outfit

Many of us most likely have some family gatherings to attend. Whether you are hosting or attending as a guest, you want to make sure you’re comfortable but still festive!

• Cozy sweater dress  or oversized sweater
• Festive sweater and nice pair of jeans
• Holiday sweater with a midi skirt or pants
• Casual faux-wrap maxi dress
• Crewneck sweater paired with corduroy pants
• Plaid button-up shirt and khakis

You can’t go wrong with a red dress or well-fitted blazer. But sometimes you want to step up the glamour or play with your holiday look. Add some festive accessories, add something a bit unexpected.

Holiday Work Party Style

When it comes to a corporate party, the time and venue should dictate our outfit choice. For example, parties at your workplace will mostly likely end up being a more casual look. If it’s an evening event at a venue, you may want to opt for something a bit elevated. To play it safe, consider layering and adjust accordingly. Here are a few festive looks:

• Neutral suit with a holiday tie
• Dark jeans with a button-down and sweater
• Suit pants and a button-down in a fun print
• Skirt suit set with a red blouse or sparkle
• Midi cocktail dress*
• Velvet blazer and black slacks

*if your cocktail dress has spaghetti straps, consider a cropped jacket, faux fur coat, or cardigan.

When it comes to New Year’s fashion, you can amp up your festive look with a gold dress, full on sequins, and more.

Personalized Holiday Party Outfit

Keep your own personal style  by incorporating some of your own elements into your holiday outfits. Add some of your personality and have some fun with your fashion! Take a look at some ideas:

• Sequin handbag
• Bold shoes
• Holiday print socks

Spend the Holidays in Style Inspiration

So don’t be stressed out by your holiday calendar. Even if your closet isn’t holiday clothing ready, there is always time (and a reason) to shop.  Hallak is here for all your alterations, cleaning, and finishing (pressing/steaming) needs.

May your wardrobe be as vibrant and joyful as the festivities around you. Wishing you a stylish and memorable holiday season!

Schedule a pick-up for your holiday fashion today.

Expert trench and coat dry cleaning.

Caring for your trench and other coats is important for both aesthetic and cleanliness reasons. Often, people wait until their coat shows obvious signs of wear-and-tear OR a mishap.  Take a professional dry cleaner’s advice. Don’t wait for stains to settle and fibers to become worn down.

When Should You Clean Your Coat

To extend a coat’s lifetime, you should be evaluating your cleaning schedule. For a general rule of thumb, you should dry cleaning at least once a season. If you wear a specific outerwear regularly, more frequent coat dry cleaning is needed.

Determine Wear-and-Tear

Still unsure when to dry clean? Ask yourself a few questions before making a decision:

• Are you riding the subway or other mass transit?
• Are you wearing your coat quite regularly? 
• Are you adventurous and have chosen to wear a white or light-colored coat?

If you said ‘yes’ to any of these questions above, you may want to clean your coat more regularly. If you would like to play by ear, we then suggest inspect your coats regularly. Check your coat overall – and then the collar, wrist cuffs, etc. At this time, also inspect your buttons to make sure they aren’t loose or missing.

Schedule a pick-up for dry cleaning service today.

Pre-Storage Cleaning

Before storing a coat, we advise our customers to clean them. Clothes and outerwear should be cleaned prior to long-term storage.  Even if your garment looks clean, there may be trouble areas including potential invisible stains.

Dry cleaning includes stain removal and the right fabric care that home washing doesn’t provide. If you have ever experience moth holes in a wool coat, then we don’t need to stress cleaning any more.

Storage Tips.

• Store in a cedar or temperature-controlled storage space
• Never store in plastic or non-breathable garment bag
• A fur coat or leather jacket should ideally be placed in cold storage

Request a pick-up today.

Winter Weather Care

When you live in the New York City Metro area, your coat is going to see it’s fair share of rain, sleet, snow, and salt. Don’t allow these outside elements to break down fragile fabrics and leave their mark.

Trench Coat Dry Cleaning

Trench coats serve as timeless wardrobe staples. Due to their waterproofing, each one has unique care instructions including the right dry cleaning solvent, water temperature, proper dry cleaning process, etc. Leave it to expert dry cleaners – and be sure to request a waterproof treatment. Burberry, Loro Piana, and other luxury designer outerwear require an additional level of care.

Winter Coat Cleaning

Wool coats, puffer jackets and other winter outerwear also require proper care. Depending on their regular wear, they may not need the same level of care. It really depends on the fabric, trim, and other factors.

A suede coat or leather jacket requires a suede and leather expert. When cleaning a leather garment, there may need to be spot cleaning, color-matching, and other advanced techniques.

Fur? Do not attempt to clean a fur coat at home. Without the proper solvents and techniques, you may end up drying the fur or cause additional damage.

Trust Your Professional Cleaners

Whether your drop-off or schedule a pick-up, your coat will be thoroughly inspected prior to cleaning. Once cleaned and finished, it will once again be inspected. And wait….one last time prior to packaging for its return home.

Spot cleaning and regular professional dry cleaning keep outerwear looking its best. If you ever have questions, stop by either of our store locations or schedule a pick-up for a proper evaluation.

During this Thanksgiving season, our couture dry cleaning family extends heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated team whose unwavering commitment and hard work have been the backbone of our success. We also would like to express our deepest appreciation to our clients, who have entrusted us with their most precious garments, and in doing so, have become an integral part of our extended family. Your loyalty fuels our passion for excellence, and we are truly grateful for the privilege of serving you.

As Thanksgiving is a time of reflection, we would like to take a moment to remember Nora Nealis. For many years, she served as the Executive Director of the National Cleaners Association. Although a pivotal member of our industry, she was so much more to many more.

Nora’s leadership was characterized by her exceptional insight and unwavering commitment. She ardently championed the responsible use of dry cleaning solvents that would protect both small businesses and the environment.

Her diplomatic finesse and forward-thinking played a pivotal role in aligning industry objectives with governmental (and community safety) goals.

Her legacy will live on through her meaningful contributions to all the lives she touched and the dry cleaning industry. Thank you, Nora. You are truly missed.