The row

When you think of bespoke tailoring, only one place springs to mind... Savile Row. This street within the heart of Mayfair has not only dressed royalty but also some of the the most influential names in the world of music, politics and fashion. Mick Jagger, Winston Churchill and Sir Paul Smith are just a few of its most popular clients.

The Row was born over two hundred years ago; a hidden gem. Its history stretches back to 1771, when renowned civil and military tailors Hawkes first opened its doors. However, it was only in 1974 when Hawkes merged with Gieves (to become Gieves and Hawkes) that it really began. These sartorial giants who reside at the head of the street in No.1 (Savile Row) epitomise everything this infamous quarter mile was, and still is - historic. It has survived a revolt and even the likes of Giorgio Armarni, yet It is cemented in the hearts of the British tailoring industry. This industry however, would of crumbled without the efforts of it’s unsung heroes that help keep the street alive - its tailors. Their artistry and craft is one of a kind; they work under and above the shops creating masterpieces. For these men the street is their identity and the cloth, cut and stitching their signature. Each house is blessed with an individual style and suits created here are never seen twice. They are made to measure and are all timeless classics.

This history and craft now manages to capture the sartorial imagination of the twenty first century man. No longer is this gentleman’s outfitters reserved for only those above the age of 40. The likes of Norton and Sons and Oswald Boateng have injected there modern imagination and flair into this old aged street, creating more fashionable garments. Their cut is more modern day ‘dandy’ than the quintessential English officer, yet they still capture the true essence that is bespoke tailoring. Norton and Sons established in 1821 and are known for their expertise in lightweight safari clothing. They now adopt a different approach after being acquired by Patrick Grant in 2005. Grants “neat, simple and elegant” finish is something refreshing, something that has allowed Savile Row to be enjoyed by those of all ages. The history of this street is far from finished; it is only just beginning.