Think of things that are “Made in Britain” and what springs to mind? Since the decline of British Manufacturing you’ve been forgiven for coming up with a very short list! But whilst the recession may have forced us to spend less money overall on clothing, it has changed our shopping habits. Consumers are now taking their time to invest in quality pieces that have a story. The power of the brand and the origins of a garment has never been more important. Here at LDNfashion we’ve put together a little guide to our favourite Menswear “Made in Britain” brands who are leading the way in the renaissance – The rise of British made Menswear.
Private White VC
Located in Manchester and with a deep rooted history in military and workwear, Private White has been a leader when it comes to “Made in Britain” for a very long time. They are true devotees to their heritage and the talented workers and pattern cutters they employ in their Manchester factory.
1. The Shacket in Chambray – If you’ve not heard of a “Shacket” before it is the hybrid child of a jacket and shirt, with roots in British Army Tropical uniform, it is ideal for when a shirt is too informal yet a jacket would be ott. A great transitional piece between seasons.
The Shacket in Chambray £165
2. We love this traditional style Fisherman knit jumper with its high neckline and thick rib detailing.
Guernsey Sweater in Burgundy £175
3. Field jackets are having a bit of a resurgence this season and Private White’s version is made in this beautiful grey herringbone tweed (woven in Britain!) is a perfect example of how they should be done.
Shooter in Tweed £495
4. There’s not a lot of say about this cotton oxford shirt, yes they are a common occurrence on the high street, but what’s special about this one? It’s completely handmade in England. A shirt like this should take pride of place in your wardrobe.
100% Cotton Oxford Shirt £145
5. Another hybrid “Shacket” (see item number 1) although perhaps leaning towards the jacket identification with its contrast collar. We love the colour and cuff tab detail.
The Shirt Jacket in Green £250
6. Complete your “Made in Britain” outfit with this pair of Cheaney Pennine IIR Country Boots, hand crafted in Northamptonshire from beautiful quality leather, this boots, if looked after properly will last a very long time.
Cheaney Pennine IIR Country Boots £295
S.E.H Kelly
Although still only a young brand (it was founded in 2009) S.E.H Kelly has been going from strength to strength, with it’s founders Sara and Paul having come from Savile row tailoring and design/advertising respectively, no aspect of the brand in left unturned and is a visual treat at every turn. Every detail of the garments is accounted for and shown with pride (as it should be).
1. We love this Blue cotton vest, especially the “onion” stitch detail that covers it.
Blue cotton drill onion stitch vest £180
2. A good pair of trousers can be hard to find, but these cotton-drill trousers are truly an exquisite example! The neutral fawn colours makes them easy to work into any outfit.
Fawn cotton drill standard trousers £140
3. You can’t go far wrong with a blazer seeing as it suits most body types. This one is made from a beautiful Donegal weave, with specks of blue and grey tones.
Blue/Grey Donegal wool three-button blazer £295
4. Apart from the vintage style design and beautiful colour, the thing that makes this cardigan so special is the fact it has been made by one hand loomer, in Britain.
Navy/Blue herringbone cotton cardigan £195
The Merchant Fox
A “Made in Britain” outfit surely deserves “Made in Britain” accessories. Based in South West England, the The Merchant Fox is part of the Fox Brothers brand, a renowned and prestigious woollen and worsted cloth mill. Founded in 1722, it’s designs are deeply rooted in heritage and true British design.
1. What discerning Gentleman could be without a pair of slippers? We love the Prince of Wales check on this pair.
Fox Prince of Wales Check Albert Slipper £200
2. A very preppy design with white and navy stripes, this
Fox Navy College Scarf £120
3. An incredibly stylish tote that is the perfect size for nights away.
Fox Flannel Tote £250
4. Something a tad more luxurious but we couldn’t resist including it…a piece of luggage that wouldn’t look out of place in Bond film, this Fox cloth lined globe-trotter case is a work of art, with brass handles and leather trims, you may want to display it rather than use it.
British Racing Green Globe-Trotter 21″ case £995
5. Hand cut in the East of England, this Prince of Wales tie is a beautiful thing! 100% pure wool, it is a classic and timeless piece for any man’s wardrobe.
Classic Prince of Wales Tie £90
Best of the rest…
Even more items that are Made in Britain!
1. A relatively young brand Anthony & Brown have created a brand that is bringing something completely new to the British made market. Whilst the brand has roots in country wear, it still takes it’s design lead from the city. You won’t find much tweed here, but you will find fresh colours and essential pieces for your wardrobe.
The Spaniel Oxford Shirt in Light Blue £49.99 from Anthony & Brown
2. Established in 1969 with it’s roots based firmly in Equine wear, Lavenham Jackets has enjoyed a Royal following. Since 2011 the brand has started on an expansion into wider markets. We love this camo jacket which wouldn’t be out of place in a Stussy or Carhartt lookbook.
Holbroook Windcheater £134.62 from Lavenham Jackets
3. The Dawson family know a thing or two about Denim after having worked with the fabric for over 15 years. They use the finest quality Japanese Red Line Selvedge denim. The designs are inspired by traditional workwear and each piece comes with a “log book” guaranteeing the owner with 6 months free servicing on their products.
Helmet Bag £180 from Dawson Denim
4. A brilliantly eccentric and fun clothing founded by a photographer and textile designer, Dashing Tweeds use traditional fabrics in bright colours in young sporty designs. The also offer a made to order service.
Threadbare Jacket £350 from Dashing Tweeds
5. Established in 2007 by Adam Atkinson, Cherchbi began with a simple idea to make bags using the discarded wool of the ancient Herdwick breed, since then it has evolved into a leather goods and accessories brand. Every piece of the collection is designed and made in Britain to create beautiful accessories that are robust and sustainable.
Black Sail Rucksack £475 from Cherchbi
For a full range of brands that make in Britain or if you are a British manufacturer yourself head over to Make it British, a great online directory.
