Who Are Savile Row's Legendary Tailors?

• Bespoke Tailoring
• December 09, 2024

Famous Bespoke Suit Savile Row Tailors

Savile Row, the jewel in London's Mayfair district, represents the home of the best tailors in London. This iconic street, celebrated worldwide as the "Golden Mile of Tailoring", has nurtured and housed the world's most exceptional custom tailors for over two centuries, creating an unmatched legacy of excellence. The prestigious designation "Savile Row Tailors" transcends mere location - it embodies the perfect synthesis of time-honoured craftsmanship, unwavering attention to detail, and distinguished heritage of clothing the world's most discerning gentlemen.

History of Savile Row

The remarkable transformation of Savile Row into a tailoring mecca began in the late 18th century. Originally named after Lady Dorothy Savile, the accomplished wife of the 3rd Earl of Burlington, this distinguished street's evolution from residential elegance to tailoring excellence represents one of fashion's most fascinating journeys.

Key milestones in Savile Row's illustrious history include:

Throughout the centuries, Savile Row has remained at the vanguard of men's fashion evolution, expertly balancing innovation with a timeless elegance that defies fleeting trends.

Criteria for Fame on Savile Row

The distinguished reputation of Savile Row's master tailors is built upon exacting standards and exceptional achievements. The most celebrated establishments share fundamental characteristics that elevate them beyond mere craftsmanship to true artistry.

Distinguished Heritage and Longevity The most renowned Savile Row houses have cultivated their expertise across generations, with many boasting histories spanning well over a century. These establishments have refined their techniques through decades of dedicated practice, passing down closely guarded skills and insights from master to apprentice.

Royal Recognition and Distinguished Clientele: The presence of royal warrants and an illustrious client list significantly enhances a tailor's standing. These prestigious endorsements, coupled with a discerning international clientele, including celebrities, politicians, and industry leaders, reflect the exceptional quality of their craftsmanship.

Innovative Contributions to Tailoring True masters of the craft distinguish themselves through groundbreaking developments in cutting techniques and style innovations. These contributions have fundamentally shaped the evolution of modern tailoring, establishing new standards of excellence in the industry.

Impact on British Fashion Heritage The most esteemed houses have played pivotal roles in defining and elevating British style. Their influence extends far beyond Savile Row, shaping global perspectives on refined menswear and establishing enduring standards of elegance.

Dedication to Traditional Excellence While embracing contemporary innovations, prestigious Savile Row establishments maintain an unwavering commitment to hand-crafted perfection. This delicate balance between tradition and modernity ensures the preservation of time-honoured techniques while meeting modern expectations.

Profiles of Renowned Savile Row Tailors

Apsley Tailors

With an illustrious heritage dating back to 1889, Apsley Tailors London stands as one of London's premier bespoke tailors Savile Row. For over 130 years, we have masterfully combined time-honoured craftsmanship with contemporary innovation, serving generations of discerning clients from aristocrats to business leaders.

Our Distinguished Heritage:

• Over a century of refined expertise in bespoke tailoring
• Time-tested techniques passed down through generations
• Evolution from traditional roots to modern sophistication
• Global recognition for exceptional craftsmanship

Distinctive Advantages:

• Revolutionary quick-delivery bespoke service, crafting exceptional suits in as little as 1-2 weeks without compromising our exacting standards
• Extensive expertise in serving an international clientele across continents
• The masterful integration of traditional techniques with cutting-edge technology
• Competitive pricing starting from £1,500, making Savile Row quality more accessible
• Comprehensive global fitting and delivery services
• Unparalleled attention to detail refined over decades and decades of excellence.

Anderson & Sheppard

Established in 1906, Anderson & Sheppard has cultivated an unparalleled reputation in bespoke tailoring. Their distinctive approach to cut and fit has revolutionised the industry, earning them a devoted following among the most discerning clientele worldwide.

Distinguished Characteristics:

• Mastery of the internationally acclaimed "London Cut."
• Innovative soft shoulder construction with elevated armhole placement
• Expertly sculpted waist silhouette
• Prestigious client portfolio including HRH Prince Charles and luminary Tom Ford
• Pioneering contribution to English tailoring through the revolutionary "drape cut" of the 1930s

Richard Anderson

Following exceptional training at the esteemed house of Huntsman, Richard Anderson established his eponymous tailoring house in 2001, breathing fresh vitality into Savile Row's heritage. His establishment exemplifies the harmonious fusion of traditional expertise with contemporary vision.

Remarkable Attributes:

• The masterful integration of classic Savile Row techniques with modern aesthetic sensibilities
• An authoritative voice in bespoke tailoring through his acclaimed publication "Bespoke: Savile Row Ripped and Smoothed."
• Cultivated clientele spanning traditional connoisseurs and contemporary style enthusiasts
• Innovative approach to pattern cutting and garment construction

Huntsman & Sons

Founded in 1849, Huntsman stands as a testament to extraordinary craftsmanship and unwavering excellence. Their signature style has become synonymous with refined elegance and superior tailoring.

Notable Distinctions:

• Iconic single-button jacket design with distinctive elongated waist
• Illustrious clientele, including Gregory Peck and Laurence Olivier
• Contemporary cultural impact through the "Kingsman" film franchise
• Preservation of traditional cutting techniques whilst embracing modern innovations

Gieves & Hawkes

With an illustrious heritage dating to 1771, Gieves & Hawkes represents the epitome of British tailoring excellence. Their journey from military tailoring to contemporary elegance exemplifies the adaptability of true craftsmanship.

Exceptional Achievements:

• Proud holders of royal warrants from The Queen, The Prince of Wales, and The Duke of Edinburgh
• The masterful transition from military expertise to contemporary civilian tailoring
• Preservation of military precision in modern garment construction
• Global recognition as arbiters of refined British style

Henry Poole & Co

Revered as the founding father of Savile Row, Henry Poole & Co. continues to set the standard for bespoke excellence since 1806.

Distinguished Legacy:

• Creator of the original dinner jacket for the Prince of Wales in 1865
• Unprecedented collection of over 40 royal warrants from global courts
• Continued innovation in traditional tailoring techniques
• Preservation of authentic Savile Row craftsmanship

Dege & Skinner

Since 1865, Dege & Skinner has upheld the traditions of family-owned excellence in bespoke tailoring. Their unique position as one of the few remaining family-operated establishments on Savile Row speaks to their enduring commitment to preserving traditional craftsmanship.

Exceptional Attributes:

• Unparalleled expertise in military and ceremonial dress uniforms
• Prestigious appointment as Military Tailors to Her Majesty The Queen
• Seamless adaptation of military precision to contemporary civilian attire
• Meticulous attention to traditional hand-sewing techniques
• Multi-generational knowledge transfer ensuring continuity of excellence

Norton & Sons

Established in 1821, Norton & Sons exemplifies the successful modernisation of traditional tailoring under Patrick Grant's visionary leadership since 2005. Their evolution demonstrates how heritage craftsmanship can be reimagined for contemporary clientele.

Distinguished Features:

• Historic tailors to Britain's most prestigious families
• Remarkable transformation into a contemporary luxury house
• Sophisticated balance of traditional techniques with modern aesthetics
• Innovation in sustainable tailoring practices
• Cultivation of a new generation of bespoke enthusiasts

The Savile Row Experience

The commission of a bespoke suit on Savile Row represents an unparalleled journey into personal luxury and craftsmanship. Each stage of this remarkable process contributes to the creation of a perfectly tailored suit:

1. Initial Consultation

• In-depth exploration of personal style preferences
• Detailed discussion of intended use and occasions
• Expert guidance on fabric selection and design elements
• Establishment of aesthetic direction and practical requirements

2. Precise Measurements

• A comprehensive collection of over 30 individual measurements
• Detailed analysis of posture and movement patterns
• Documentation of unique physical characteristics
• Understanding of personal comfort preferences

3. Fabric Selection

• Access to the world's finest cloth merchants
• Expert guidance on weight, texture, and performance
• Seasonal considerations and wearing occasions
• Discussion of care requirements and longevity

4. First Fitting

• Evaluation of initial garment construction
• Assessment of fundamental fit elements
• Detailed noting of required adjustments
• Discussion of style refinements

5. Refinement Process

• Multiple fittings to achieve perfect balance
• Precise adjustments to ensure optimal comfort
• Fine-tuning of all design elements
• Attention to personal preferences and feedback

6. Final Presentation

• Comprehensive garment assessment
• Detailed care instructions
• Style guidance for various occasions
• Discussion of future wardrobe development

Contributions to the Craft

The master tailors of Savile Row have profoundly influenced the evolution of bespoke tailoring through centuries of innovation and refinement:

Revolutionary Cutting Techniques The Row's master artisans have developed sophisticated cutting methods that fundamentally transformed garment construction. These proprietary techniques, passed down through generations, ensure superior fit and elegant drape whilst maintaining comfort and durability.

Distinctive House Styles Each establishment has cultivated its signature aesthetic, contributing to a rich tapestry of English tailoring traditions. These unique interpretations of classical tailoring principles have created an unprecedented diversity in style options, catering to varied personal preferences and body types.

Apprenticeship Excellence Savile Row's commitment to preserving traditional skills through rigorous apprenticeship programmes ensures the continuity of exceptional craftsmanship. These comprehensive training systems, often spanning several years, cultivate the next generation of master tailors whilst preserving centuries of accumulated knowledge.

Fabric Innovation: Close collaboration with prestigious mills has led to the development of extraordinary cloth varieties. These partnerships have yielded exclusive fabrics that combine traditional weaving techniques with modern performance characteristics, setting new standards in textile excellence.

The Future of Savile Row

Whilst deeply rooted in tradition, Savile Row demonstrates remarkable adaptability to contemporary challenges:

Technological Integration

• Implementation of advanced 3D body scanning technology
• Development of sophisticated digital pattern-making systems
• Enhanced global fitting services through virtual consultations
• Integration of sustainable production methods

Environmental Consciousness

• Adoption of eco-friendly fabric options
• Implementation of waste-reduction techniques
• Development of sustainable packaging solutions
• Focus on garment longevity and timeless design

Global Accessibility

• Expansion of international trunk show programmes
• Enhancement of virtual consultation services
• Development of secure international shipping solutions
• Creation of personalised care packages for global clients

Heritage Preservation

• Active protection of traditional craftsmanship
• Preservation of historical techniques
• Documentation of traditional methods
• Support for a new generation of artisans

Savile Row continues to represent the pinnacle of bespoke tailoring excellence, maintaining its position as the global benchmark for sartorial craftsmanship. Each establishment, whilst unique in its approach, shares an unwavering commitment to exceptional quality and personal service. As fashion continues to evolve, Savile Row's dedication to preserving and advancing the art of bespoke tailoring ensures its enduring relevance for future generations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What investment should one expect for a Savile Row suit?

• Bespoke suits typically commence at £1,500, with possibilities extending beyond £20,000 depending on cloth selection and specific requirements. At Apsley Tailors, we pride ourselves on offering exceptional value, with starting prices from £1,500.

Is a Savile Row suit a worthwhile investment?  

• For those who appreciate impeccable craftsmanship, perfect fit, and enduring quality, a Savile Row suit represents exceptional value. These garments, built to last decades with proper care, offer a level of personalisation and comfort unattainable in ready-to-wear clothing.

What differentiates bespoke from other tailoring options?

• Bespoke tailoring represents the pinnacle of garment creation, where every aspect is meticulously crafted to your exact specifications. Unlike made-to-measure or ready-to-wear options, bespoke garments are created entirely from scratch, ensuring perfect alignment with your physique and style preferences.

Best wishes,

Arshad Mahmood

Article Updated: 09.12.2024