It seems my Safari Suit got quite a few compliments last time, so I plan to create another one, but with improvements. Namely, I'm considering epaulettes and a belt. But I'd love to hear your thoughts - what do you recommend? Any inspiration or pics you find online would be much appreciated. Also, material. In my experience, cream wool tends to go transparent, so I'm not sure. Cotton? But that would possibly be too hot. Basically, I'm looking to create the ultimate 'Empire Builder' suit, and would love to hear your thoughts and suggestions.

I was sporting my favourite evening DB this Friday at a friend's birthday, at a rooftop bar in Budapest. I actually think the trousers are too tight but the outrageous lapels hopefully distract attention. It's quite hard to see but this is Mohair wool - a luxurious, silky fibre made from the Angora goat. It is lightweight, glossy, and durable, and adds a subtle sheen without sacrificing structure. This jacket is fully canvassed and finished with Corozo nut buttons.

Nothing remotely flash about this outfit - but it’s about as casual as I get for a 35-degree hike in Hungary. Yes, the chinos are creased. Yes, I was boiling. And yes, those are epaulettes on the shirt. Purely decorative. No military rank, just a touch of imperial flair to ensure nearby hikers feel subtly inadequate. Yes, I am that petty.

Not the best photos, and yeah - it’s a bit too tight (I’d pulled the internal drawcord too much), but whatever. It’s boiling here in Budapest, so I took the Safari Suit (aka Empire Builder) out for a spin. It’s not perfect, but still miles better than the usual “shorts and black socks” look most guys default to, so I’ll take it. Unlined, lightweight, and finished with proper horn buttons (that even have little tiger claw marks on them).

Not the best photo, but rare evidence of me in the wild not wearing a suit. The polo shirt was custom-made because I couldn’t find one that fit my frame. It has a chest pocket and reinforced collar inserts to stop it flopping about (inspired by a Bond film, though I’ve forgotten which). Fabric: 96% mercerised pique cotton, 4% spandex. Dangerously casual chinos: high-waisted, 5cm waistband, double-button closure, fishtail back, button ticket pocket, coin pocket, and side adjusters with chrome fastenings. Double pleats, no belt loops, real horn buttons. Out of shot are the brown Chelsea boots that match my bag. I apologise for the poor quality photo. It was very bright. I will sack my assistant; or at least stop her food for a while.