How to master the subtle art of a cumme*rbund (2024)

Dear Style Shrink,

What are your thoughts on cumme*rbunds?

Richard Q, Ottery St Mary

I love wearing a cumme*rbund, Richard. So long as you’re in a tuxedo and so long as the dress code reads “formal” or “black tie”, there’s nothing that holds in a slightly extended stomach (it’s that time of year, it happens) with more elegant aplomb.

Effectively a sash designed to go around the waist, the original cumme*rbunds were worn by the Iranians as part of more formal get-ups, but the style was quickly adopted by the British in Colonial India.

Today a proper cumme*rbund should be pleated and sit directly on top of the waistband of your trouser with an equal amount of space either side – it should not sit over it, nor beneath it.

Be sure when wearing and buying your own cumme*rbund to opt for a dark hue (black preferably) in a muted fabric that, ideally, matches your lapels and your trouser stripe. A rich silk satin mix, or even a velvet, will do the trick.

Here are the best cumme*rbunds out there right now, whatever your style.

The jazzy one