Don't let its high fashion mega-brand status fool you, British designer Alexander McQueen is still very much an authentic London tailor as well. The late great designer himself learned all of what he knew in Saville Row, so now, his employees provide the same service for exclusive clients. But what makes this brand stands out is they often incorporate a romantic touch to their design. Though it depends on you if you'll want them, you'll see that their men's suits make up of different textiles, invoke sleeker silhouettes, and at times, are even embellished or embroidered. That's the signature McQueen touch!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Right after McQueen, Gieves & Hawkes is arguably the second most popular tailor shop on this list. And it's also one of the more traditional as well. Occupying a grand townhouse on No.1 Saville Row, the place is a mecca for traditional men's suiting and its centuries-old craft. They once dressed up the country's military, so they know how to cut a mean suit in just the right size and proportions. Having a suit made here, even if it will be your first time, will feel as if you've always worked with them. That's how good they are at the craft!
Source: Gieves & Hawkes Facebook Page
This place's name alone should tell you what to expect. A 'dandy' was an old term used in past eras to refer to young men known for the eye-catching and elaborate style. They were both famous and notorious for their sartorial pursuits. Here at the Cad & The Dandy, that concept is alive and well. One of the younger labels on the list—having only opened in 2013—they've amassed a young clientele whose tailored needs are more modern and sleek. Very similar to French menswear brands. Now, they’ve also come up with a new 'semi-bespoke’ service which combines both handsewn tailoring and machine-based construction.
Source: Cad & The Dandy Facebook Page
Similarly, Clements & Church also offers up new and exciting styles for younger clientele. But compared to the Cad & The Dandy, they're much more traditional in their approach. Their final outcomes, however, are sleek and contemporary but without losing their Britishness. With their razor-sharp focus on reviving the craft, it's as if they're catering to the grandsons and great-grandsons of the gentlemen of yore. It's clear that the men they mostly serve are those familiar with fine tailoring and appreciates the craftsmanship.
Source: Clements & Church
With over two centuries under their belt, it's no surprise that Davies & Son still stands strong as one of London's finest tailors. Through the years, they've dressed countless royals, aristocrats, nobility, politicians, and celebrities. And there's no surprise as to why most of the distinguished men in London often go here. Their way of tailoring remains traditional and precise. They approach each step of the centuries-old process meticulously, making sure that the final outcome will be worth their prestigious name. It's why their bespoke service already starts in the thousands of pounds and will only go higher!
Source: Davies & Son Facebook Page
What does Dege & Skinner have that the other tailors on this list don't? The complete and total trust of the British Royal Family. That's right, most of the Royal men (and sometimes women too) have their clothes tailor-made for them right here. In fact, even a lot of their bodyguards and staff get their clothes made her as well. And they don't just provide suits neither. They excel in crafting well-made suits and ceremonial garments, all done with the most delicate intricacy.
Source: Dege & Skinner
Also an expert on civilian and ceremonial wear is Henry Poole & Co. In fact, when you go to their store at 15 Savile Row, you can still see the Regency military uniforms they used to make during the Napoleonic years. And it's highly likely that they do the costumes of various period films that center on that era. But in terms of service, you'll get the same excellent touch that they've been providing for over two centuries now. Well-made pieces with strong structures and eye-catching silhouettes. It's no wonder many gentlemen have regarded this as their favorite tailor.
Source: Henry Poole & Co. Facebook Page
If this place will look familiar to you, that's probably because the movie "Kingsman" starring Colin Firth and Taron Egerton modeled their tailor shop to Huntsman. Even the name is somewhat similar. However, don't expect that behind this traditional tailor shop facade is a spy cave filled with deadly gadgets. It's simply a tailor shop and one of the finest ones at that. Known for their equestrian roots, they instill their strong tailoring know-how into their suits as well. The structure and silhouette of your pieces here will look and feel as upright and mighty as ever.
Source: Flickr.com/ a_marga
Out of all the labels on this list, J. P. Hackett, or more commonly known now as Hackett London, is probably the most inviting tailor out there. This isn't to say they're not exclusive or anything. They still maintain a certain level of exclusivity for their bespoke service. But through the years, the brand has become known for its ready-to-wear line, offering quality pieces for men who may not afford their made-to-measure suits. You can even shop for it in many British retailers! In this spirit, they're sharing the tradition of fine tailoring to a wider audience, hoping to keep the tradition alive for another few centuries.
Source: Hackett London Facebook Page
When you're in London, it's time to suit up. It's the only proper way to dress up in this cosmopolitan capital. And along Savile Row, there are tons of traditional tailors to satisfy your fashionable needs!