The up-and-coming London tailors to know now
From traditional shirtmakers and bow-tie experts, to Art Deco cutters and Ivy League masters, meet the London-based brands reshaping the modern tailoring industry
It’s been a tricky year for the tailoring world. The outbreak of the global pandemic caused a collapse in social and work schedules and, from a style perspective, meant we no longer needed formal wear. Fortunately, things are opening up (and, subsequently, looking up) for the season ahead, meaning we finally have an opportunity to pull on our best pieces again.
As exciting as this sounds, the prospect of actually doing so can be a bit overwhelming – especially if it’s been over a year since you last ‘dressed up’. If you can’t face a full wardrobe overhaul then the easiest way to freshen up your look is with some slick tailoring. And where better to invest in some new pieces than in the British capital? London’s history of suiting is unparalleled, after all, and as we speak, a flock of fresh brands are pushing the boundaries of tradition and cooking up some seriously sharp – and, most importantly, modern – designs.
Meet London’s rising tailors helping ease you back into normal life with tremendous style.
Scott Fraser Collection
History lies at the heart of design for East London-based tailor Scott Fraser Simpson. His eponymous label, Scott Fraser Collection, is rapidly rising in the menswear scene thanks to its accurate nod to tailoring codes from decades past – masterfully combined with playfully modern styling. A set of high waisted, 1940s style pleated trousers, for example, are suggestively worn beneath a camp-collared, Italian knitted shirt. Sharp, refreshing and ever-so elegant – this is the tailor to turn to for a summer style upgrade.
Dobrik & Lawton
If you’re looking to push boundaries with your tailoring, an appointment at Dobrik & Lawton is calling. Characterised by sharp silhouettes, Art Deco details and a couture-like finish, founders Joshua Dobrik and Kimberley Lawton are cutting their way into a (surprisingly) untapped territory for London’s modern tailoring scene: progression. The pair recently opened shop on Savile Row (the youngest house to do so in 52 years), so we recommend a trip there – stat – to have your flamboyant tailoring desires fulfilled.
Jakes LDN
Quality is essential to all aspects of a tailored ensemble – especially a shirt. Enter Jake Wigham. Informed by a masterful blend of jazz styles and Ivy League codes from the 1950s and 1960s, his East London-based atelier focuses on luxury pieces crafted on a made-to-order basis. Whether you’re in search of a classic Oxford button down for your next dinner with clients or a printed popover for the heydays of summer, Wigham’s classic designs are your new wardrobe staples – and, with schedules about to become hectic again, there’s really no greater priority.
The Deck
Women’s suits have never really had much of a reputation in London’s bespoke tailoring industry. Which, as any city high flyer constantly restricted to off-the-peg skirt suits will tell you, is quite the shame. That’s where Daisy Knatchbull comes in. Founder of Savile Row-based label The Deck (the first ever women’s business to sit on the street), Knatchbull describes her business as offering “a sartorial statement with a dose of empowerment and rebellion.” What the translates into is an abundance of androgynous (and sophisticated) designs: from three-piece pinstripe ensembles to striking safari suits. Book yourself a consultation for an ever reliable made-to-measure creation.
Timothy Everest
Located in the heart of Shoreditch, Timothy Everest’s contemporary approach to the tailoring industry offers an experience and product for every kind of customer, with ready-to-wear, made-to-measure and bespoke all falling within the brand’s remit. You’ll find great variety across its plethora of designs – from soft unstructured tailoring and knitwear to luxurious shirting and sharp three-piece suits. Vitally, however, all share one seamless goal: panache and elegance by way of quality design. We advise a browse through its ready-to-wear shirts for the summer season ahead.
La Bowtique
With formal events surfacing in the capital once again, it’s time for a black tie refresh – and the best place to go for its central accessory is La Bowtique. Founded by Savile Row tailor Mickael Korausch, attention to detail lies at the core of each design, each of which is built using fine threads which Korausch has travelled the world to acquire. The key to the business lies in its bespoke model, which offers clients the chance to create a personalised pattern, shape and texture, before their bow tie is handcrafted in the London workshop. An instant enhancement to your ensemble.
Drake’s
Ivy League style is having a major moment in menswear, and that’s mostly down to the work of Drake’s. Having set up its flagship store on Savile Row at the end of 2019, the brand operates in several booming cities – from Paris and New York to Tokyo – but feels inherently British thanks to its sharp fabrics and meticulous craftsmanship. The designs are preppy (a signature corduroy suit is a failsafe choice), the prices are respectful and the quality is high – meaning that any purchase will stay relevant for decades to come. What’s not to love?
Mendoza
If the word “mod” sits in your realm of preferred styles, a trip to Mendoza is a must. Taking up residence on the world-famous Portobello Road, this small boutique is filled to the brim with exquisite pieces for the modern day dandy. For a classic Sixties aesthetic, start off with a spear collared shirt, tuck it into some bottom kick flare trousers and seal the deal with a sharp popper jacket. Flamboyance is key to a successful tailoring game in 2021, and if your selections come from this spot, you’ll achieve it with ease.
