Thomas Pink kits out the British and Irish Lions for the 2013 rugby tour

The Golden Lion in King Street has been turned pink for the week to launch Thomas Pink’s new line for the British and Irish Rugby team for their tour in Australia next year. Our boys are definitely going to win the best-dressed team, as Pink’s genius is evident in every tailored inch of the collection.

The small traditional pub was filled with excited chatter, and after being handed a glass of pink champagne we went upstairs to see the magnificent pieces modelled gloriously on mannequins – each sporting a mask of a lion’s head (a nice touch we think).

The room was packed with rugby players old and new and all were in awe of the sophisticated line including Phil Vickery and Warren Gatland. There was also a surprise guest who is a fan of style and sophistication, Mr Chris Eubank.

The CEO of Thomas Pink, Jonathan Heilbron, made a wonderful speech about the new line and said: “One final promise. In the 18^th century a young tailor called Thomas Pink, who lived pretty close to this street, created a sea of red in the English countryside with his hunting jacket. As the CEO of Thomas Pink today, I am promising to create a sea of red in Australia next year for the tour, so I urge you: come follow the Pride!”

The words match beautifully with the gorgeous blazers and wonderful eye catching cufflinks that scream sophistication and luxury. As if we need an excuse to look at strapping rugby players anyway, now off the pitch they’ll be looking rugged and refined.

The manager of the 2013 tour Andy Irvin, said: “This is a new venture for the British and Irish Lions as never in the history of The Lions. We have been fitted out to such a high standard, so thank you very much!”

We would be thankful too if we had such a sharp, exceptional suit made for us. It’s not very easy for men to wear something a bit different while looking smart, it is usually just a tuxedo or a suit, but Thomas Pink has really raised the standards of high quality clothing; from velvet smoking jackets to vintage print merino wool and silk scarves.

The Lions need to look like they mean business in Australia and in these suits everyone else on the tour will be shaking in their boots. We have no doubt on pitch they will be a success too; but just in case they’re not, off pitch they’ll be a success in style.

Holly Ashe

Photos: Holly Ashe