Savile Row has experienced a resurgence in bespoke suit sales, reaching levels not seen since before the Covid-19 pandemic.
- Richard Anderson reported a 12% increase in bespoke suit orders this year, with significant interest in made-to-measure and ready-to-wear options.
- Huntsman & Sons noted that bespoke suits now account for 84% of their turnover, with remarkable growth since 2019.
- Demand is rising not only for suits but also for accessories like ties, highlighting a broader return to formal wear.
- The increase in crafted suits has also spotlighted the challenge of sourcing skilled tailors to meet this growing demand.
Following a challenging period during which working from home became the norm, Savile Row has reported a significant rise in bespoke suit sales. This increase marks a return to pre-pandemic shopping behaviours, as individuals seek tailored attire for both office and formal events.
Richard Anderson, a renowned independent tailor based at 13 Savile Row, shared insights into this trend, noting a 12% uptick in bespoke suit orders compared to last year. Anderson attributes this growth to more professionals returning to the workplace and investing in high-quality workwear, leading to his turnover surpassing £1.5 million last year. Impressively, bespoke suit sales have already reached 216 for the year, surpassing the 202 from the same period in 2023. Women’s suits and made-to-measure garments also saw a notable increase, with sales rising from 19 to 28 and 55 to 63, respectively.
Huntsman & Sons, another eminent tailor at 11 Savile Row, reported that bespoke suits comprise 84% of their total revenue, with a 35% rise in turnover since 2019. Much of their clientele continues to favour the timeless formal two-piece suits, particularly in navy blue. Despite evolving fashion trends, Huntman’s managing director, Taj Phull, maintains that formal suits remain a staple, reflected in their tie sales which are anticipated to exceed £75,000 by the year’s end.
A diverse customer base frequents Anderson & Sheppard, located on Old Burlington Street, showcasing the broad appeal of bespoke tailoring. Owner Anda Rowland observes a blend of younger customers alongside traditionalists, each seeking unique suits tailored to their preferences. Despite rumours of soaring prices, Rowland assures that most of their bespoke suits remain around £6,500, although prices can escalate with luxury materials like cashmere.
As the demand for bespoke garments rises, so too does the need for skilled craftspeople. Huntsman & Sons is proactively addressing this issue by training eight apprentices across various tailoring disciplines. This forward-thinking strategy is crucial to ensuring that the craft of bespoke tailoring on Savile Row continues to thrive in the future.
The resurgence of tailored suits on Savile Row signifies a notable shift back towards formal attire, highlighting an evolving fashion landscape.
