Hi,

Nice forum everyone, I've only had a little flick through it but everyone here seems well read and pretty stylish, so hopefully you can help me.

I've been invited to a fancy dress party by a young lady, and the theme is film characters/musicians. Well, I thought I would go old school, and be as stylish as possible, and I've always loved the way that the male characters in the noir films dressed, the stylish suits, the fedoras, etc, so I would love to dress as someone like Sam Spade or Judd Gray (Double Indemnity). Unfortunately, I have no idea of what kind of thing to look for. I've googled for things, or a guide to dressing as a noir character, but have not really found anything of use. Would any of you be able to give me some tips as to the general look, i.e. what sort of suit, shoes, etc? or point me in the direction of an internet place where I can get a good quality 30's/40's style suit, or a good guide if you know of one? I do have a suit, but it is fairly modern style.

I have two weeks (party is on the 24th May), and live in the uk, quite out of the way, but am prepared to travel to Manchester or thereabouts if I need to. I'd prefer not to spend many hundreds of pounds, but if I find something good value or that is perfect, I am not too worried about cost. Obviously, if I can get it all for free, that would be perfect, but probably impossible.

I know this is a big ask, but if you can help me, I would be eternally grateful.

Thanks in advance!

Dan