All Eyes on LJ: Photo Competition Winner

How did you and your partner meet?

We met playing roller derby in 2015. What started out as a friendship, playing for different teams, turned into dating when I moved to Liverpool Roller Birds in 2018.

Who proposed, and how did it happen?

I proposed! I originally wanted to do it in Barcelona, but the ring didn't get made in time. Once I had the ring, the next weekend, I said, "Let's go for a walk around Sefton Park in Liverpool". This is where we had one of our first dates, and I proposed on the park bench we originally sat on. Then we went for pizza!

What made you decide on a suit, and why was it important to you?

I feel like I have always struggled with my queer identity and what my style was. I have tried to wear dresses throughout my life and never quite felt comfortable. In my 30s, my style became more androgynous, and I started wearing more suits for work and socially. Wearing suits makes me feel more self-assured and has increased my self-esteem, so it seemed like a no-brainer to wear a suit for that very important day.

What made you choose King & Allen?

When looking for a tailor who created women's suits, K&A kept coming up for me as one of the few tailors out there that showcased inclusive suits. The support and championing that K&A gives its diverse clientele emphasises their morals as a business, which I think is fantastic.

Describe your experience with King & Allen in 3 words.

I will go with 3 I’s

Inclusive

Innovative

Impassioned

How was your experience with King & Allen, and what was your favourite part of the process?

Faultless. My suit was fully bespoke, and I came in with a unique idea. I was worried it might not be possible to make it. However, Karl made me feel like he couldn’t wait to create the suit and was excited by the idea. My favourite part was getting to pick the colour. I knew I wanted it to be green, but having Karl help with the smaller details, like the satin lapels and trims, was brilliant. Actually, I don’t think there is a part of designing the suit that I didn’t love!

Were there any concerns you had before and during the process, and how did we support you through them?

My main concern was that I wanted the cut of the suit to show my figure and be very fitted. I asked for the same with the shirt. Throughout the fitting process, I was asked if I was happy with the fit. The shirt was more difficult, but the Knutsford branch was very helpful with additional fittings and ensured that the shirt had the look I wanted.

How did you feel in your suit on your wedding day?

The best I have ever felt in formal clothing! I knew I looked amazing, and Amy would love it, too. Amy knew I was getting a suit but had no idea what it would look like, so seeing her reaction was priceless.

Why did you choose this photo for the Competition?

The colour! Our photographer Emma Hillier @emmahillierphotography is the absolute colour queen! You can see how beautiful the suit's material is and how amazing the cut of the cropped dinner suit and trousers is. I love how happy we both are, and the surrounding features of the Baltic Hotel just really set it all off.

How did it feel to win the competition, and are you excited about your new suit?

It was brilliant. I had never entered an online competition before, but I am so glad I did this time. I have always wanted another suit for my ever-growing collection, and now I have the opportunity!

Do you have ideas for the style of your new suit, and are there any specific occasions you plan to wear it?

I am looking to have a 1930s style suit. Navy, high waisted wide leg trousers, cropped waistcoat and jacket. I will wear it to weddings and at work when I have to present in front of a large number of people. I know it will make me look and feel incredible.

LJ’s story is a beautiful reminder of the confidence and joy the right suit can bring. If you’d like King & Allen to craft your suit, get in touch or book your appointment here.