FEATURES: 30 British brands that need support right now
Words - Taj Hayer
Fashion may seem frivolous at a time like this. With much of the world on lockdown, many millions working from home and the words “self-isolation” unlike to be forgotten from our consciousness any time soon, it seems unnecessary and an indulge to think about clothes we want to be wearing.
In line with government guidance, shops around the country are closed and online orders are not being fulfilled. A whole host of British businesses will be struggling to pay salaries, continue production and look forward to next, next season as usual. Here’s a lot of brands that you should be supporting right now (if you can, of course) and if you cant, to have a think about when you can do…
Oliver Spencer
Currently hosting a wonderful working from home edit of comfortable basics made from their most sustainable fabrics. Classic sportswear shapes take elements of tailoring to ensure a certain level of sophistication which will ensure that you don't find yourself asleep on the couch.
Heath London
Not leaving the house might mean that you let your normally vigorous skincare routine lapse. Make sure that that this doesn’t happen, by investing in Heath London. For The Rakish Gent, the moisturiser is a a real hero product - smells great, leaves skin smooth and not oily and is easily absorbed. In short, everything a good moisturiser should do, at a fraction of the cost of so many others.
Trunk Clothiers
It’s definitely worth checking out the brands first menswear collection, which is made up of pieces that you can wear all year round, can easily be layered and perfectly walk that fine line between smart and casual.
Turnbull & Asser
One of the most heritage of the brands currently operating out of the UK today - you will need their superb shirts and beautiful ties again very soon. Until then, see the latest nightwear collection inspired by the world of Wes Anderson.
Richard James
Tailoring brands so rarely do colour well. Richard James always has done. We are big fan of their intricate prints, luxurious ties and superbly cut suits and they would be our first port of call for dress up Friday (when that happens again).
Daniel W Fletcher
Young and cool, London-based contemporary menswear brand, with a focus on casual luxury, timeless shapes and new fabrics.
YMC
Timeless, trend-led designs (although not too much) that do amazing parkas, functional and tailored separates and always cool collabs.
Hamilton & Hare
Oft forgotten, a great pair of pants is the foundation of a good wardrobe. Hamilton and Hare give underwear and loungewear the respect that it deserves. Think amazing comfort, luxurious feel and affordable prices.
John Smedley
There simply is not a better place to get a knit. All made in England, with a rich heritage and superb selection of shapes, styles and colours.
Crockett & Jones
There’s nothing wrong with putting on a great pair of shoes and sitting at home. Crockett launched their SS20 collection just last week and its full of wonderful spring favourites, perfect for that one walk a day.
Grenson
Walk the dog in the best of British style. Northampton based Grenson make some of the best shoes in the world.
Topman
Don’t forget the High Street. Topman has a great selection of loungewear and knitwear that makes working from home so much easier.
Cambridge Satchel Company
Going back to school/ college/ university/ work is now something to look forward to. Go back in style with a cool new satchel.
E Tautz
One of our abolsute favs - pleated, wide leg trousers, great selection of shirts and knitwear and some of the most masculine and rakish bomber jackets that we have ever seen.
Burberry
We know that they are a huge brand. They are also a British institution. There will come a day that you want a Burberry Mac again as much as you always have done.
Paul Smith
That rainbow stripe would be a welcome addition of some much needed colour and vibrancy right now.
Gieves & Hawkes
There are few tailoring brands that can compete. And we are itching to make an appointment at 1 Savile Row as soon as we possibly can.
Troubadour
The excellent leather accessories specialists have just collaborated with Sunspel on a new collection that boasts the best of both brands.
Marks & Spencer
Who doesn’t want to look like David Gandy whilst lounging around the house?
Apothem
Invest in some of the brand’s superb saviours that boast all of the benefits of CBD. Each formulated product in the Apothem range has been designed to work with your lifestyle, created to help better your skin, body and mind every day.
Harry’s
Keep that bushy beard in check with a simple 5 blade razor and shaving gel. We particularly love the post shave mist.
Amanda Harrington
Use your time at home to look after your skin and self tan like an absolute boss.
Bang & Strike
Good (and clean) underwear is just as important as apartment pants.
Thom Sweeney
The go to brand for modern, luxurious tailoring that is fit for purpose and designed for rakish gents everywhere.
Deakin & Francis
The only place to go to for the best cufflinks in town.
Tailor-Made
The brand has two London locations, both with an amazing 3D body scanner. Show them some support and get an appointment booked in as soon as its safe to do so.
Kent & Curwen
One of those amazing rugby shirts would be most welcome right now.
Alice Made This
Small brand with big selection of superb jewellery, especially their range of wedding rings which are the only rings that we advocate you have on your finger
Lock & Co Hatters
Despite what you may think in your darkest hour, you will have a summer holiday again and when you do, you’ll want a rakish Panama. The only place to get one is Lock & Co
Bennett Winch
If you were one of those people that made a last minute dash out of London with all your belongings in a carrier bag, avoid that in the future. Please.