Wearing my black coat and
City of London Toastmaster's sash at The Guildhall
The Famous Red Tailcoat
The traditional Toastmaster’s red tailcoat was inspired by the hunting “pink” coat, first adopted in the late nineteenth century by one William Knightsmith (given name William Smith) to distinguish himself from the waiters. It was initially greeted with derision by his colleagues, but the Prince of Wales greatly admired it and once it had received the Royal seal of approval the red tailcoat became the uniform for all Toastmasters.
There are occasions when the red tailcoat is inappropriate. Toastmasters are required to wear white or black tie (black tailcoat or dinner jacket) at City Banquets and Livery Dinners, and a similar dress code usually applies to Jewish Weddings.
But the red tailcoat of a Toastmaster does serve a practical purpose. It’s always clearly visible in a gathering of any size, it lends him an air of approachable authority and ensures that he won’t be mistaken for the host, a guest or any member of the venue staff.
Alternative dress
My red tailcoat adds colour and style to any occasion and I am proud to wear it, but I’m always prepared to dress in accordance with a client’s wishes. I can offer any of the following formal wear as an alternative:
I’m also willing to dress even more informally if specially requested. Striking the right tone for your event is paramount.
The traditional Toastmaster’s red tailcoat was inspired by the hunting “pink” coat, first adopted in the late nineteenth century by one William Knightsmith (given name William Smith) to distinguish himself from the waiters. It was initially greeted with derision by his colleagues, but the Prince of Wales greatly admired it and once it had received the Royal seal of approval the red tailcoat became the uniform for all Toastmasters.
There are occasions when the red tailcoat is inappropriate. Toastmasters are required to wear white or black tie (black tailcoat or dinner jacket) at City Banquets and Livery Dinners, and a similar dress code usually applies to Jewish Weddings.
But the red tailcoat of a Toastmaster does serve a practical purpose. It’s always clearly visible in a gathering of any size, it lends him an air of approachable authority and ensures that he won’t be mistaken for the host, a guest or any member of the venue staff.
Alternative dress
My red tailcoat adds colour and style to any occasion and I am proud to wear it, but I’m always prepared to dress in accordance with a client’s wishes. I can offer any of the following formal wear as an alternative:
- White Tie (black tailcoat)
- Black Tie (dinner jacket or white tuxedo)
- Morning Suit (striped trousers with black tailcoat/short coat)
- Lounge Suit
I’m also willing to dress even more informally if specially requested. Striking the right tone for your event is paramount.
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William Knightsmith - The 1st
Red Coated Toastmaster
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Stephen Henderson, Toastmaster & Master of Ceremonies | Telephone / text: 07973 254472 | Email: [email protected]
