Savile Row, London’s iconic tailoring street, has experienced a remarkable recovery in 2024.
- Bespoke suit sales have surged as people return to offices and formal events post-pandemic.
- Richard Anderson reports a 12% increase in bespoke orders, attributing it to changing work environments.
- Huntsman & Sons also witnessed a 35% revenue boost compared to 2019, driven by bespoke demand.
- Craftspeople remain crucial as demand rises, with apprenticeships vital for future growth.
Savile Row, London’s renowned fashion district, has seen a substantial resurgence in bespoke suit sales in 2024. This revival marks a significant shift as individuals are increasingly embracing formal wear following the Covid-19 pandemic. Retailers on this prestigious street have observed that as people return to the office and attend more formal parties, there is a renewed investment in tailored attire.
Richard Anderson, an independent tailor located at 13 Savile Row, has reported a notable 12% increase in bespoke suit orders compared to the previous year. He theorises that this rise is linked to the greater number of people heading back into office environments. Consequently, his turnover from these luxurious suits, priced over £7,000, exceeded £1.5 million last year, with 2024 showing even more promise. Anderson highlighted a rise in sales for women’s suits and made-to-measure offerings, indicating a broadening interest across various demographics.
Sales of ready-to-wear suits have also surged, reflecting a desire to participate in the resurgence of evening events that were largely absent during national lockdowns. Anderson’s observation that people are willing to “get more suits across all three levels” underscores the diverse market demand. The trend towards informality, with cotton and linen suits being paired with T-shirts or worn without ties, complements the sale of traditional fabrics like 18oz cloths, especially for clients in colder climates such as the American east coast.
Huntsman & Sons, another esteemed tailor at 11 Savile Row, revealed that bespoke suits constitute 84% of their total turnover. Their bespoke sales have matched 2023’s figures with three months to spare. According to managing director Taj Phull, although the demand for formal suits remains strong, there is an uptick in seersucker fabric popularity. Tie sales have also been robust, with expectations of surpassing previous figures due to high demand in the gifting season.
Anda Rowland of Anderson & Sheppard, situated just off Savile Row, has observed a diverse customer base ranging from younger individuals to those seeking traditional garments. She notes that while their bespoke suit prices average £6,500, they strive to maintain reasonable cost increases. The challenge for bespoke tailors remains ensuring a skilled workforce, as highlighted by Huntsman’s focus on apprenticeships to cater to growing demand.
The resurgence of bespoke suit sales on Savile Row underscores a renewed appreciation for formal attire as society transitions back to traditional social and work settings.
