Made in Britain

Made in Britain

By Helen Louise Dixon

Contents Introduction 5 The Heritage Journey: An Overview

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Grenson: Shoes with British Sole

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Truely British: Private White V.C.

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Being British in Barbour 43 Trickers: A Time-Honoured Brand

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Peregrine: A Generation Journey

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North East Heritage: Nigel Cabourn

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Albam: Continuing the Trend 73 Folk: The Future of British Heritage

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End Hunting Co.: Heritage Ambassadors

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The Heritage Revival 99

Introdution: Heritage menswear has a timeless quality that makes it adaptable to any time period. Its resurgence in recent years is documented throughout Made in Britain by encompassing a variety of British brands that continue to play a vital role in the trend’s continuing revival.

Made in Britain brings to light the reasons behind the success of its featured brands and portrays the importance of British manufacturing in modern society. It focuses strongly on garment quality and the craftsmanship and skill required to produce high quality garments and accessories.

Providing a platform for both the well known and the rising prospects in British apparel, Made in Britain highlights their contributions to, and relationships with the heritage trend.

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The Heritage Journey: An Overview The face of menswear is constantly evolving but one trend that is frequently revisited is the heritage trend.

Quality garments from reputable brands provide the essence of this movement. Men want to know that they can rely on the companies they are investing in. Well-established brands have perfected their manufacturing methods which results in immaculately finished garments every time.

To the every day heritage man each purchase is an investment. He expects to still be donning that item of clothing in years to come. The time, effort and skill dedicated to each item is highly valued by its consumer. It is therefore imperative for the companies to develop and train their employees to the highest standard.

The functional apparel that is the foundation of this trend has a carefree appeal, which attracts a specialised cross section of the male market.

The values and ethics behind this trend are key, with the patrons of the movement readily adopting these morals not only in the clothes they wear but their lifestyle choices too.

The origins of this style lie in work wear - the original source of functional clothing. Strong, sturdy fabrics in comfortable and practical cuts have developed from working garments into style staples. The evolution of this trend has gained the majority of its momentum in the last 100 years, particularly throughout times of economic hardship.

In the first half of the twentieth century those who were worst hit by periods of economic distress became increasingly conscious of what they were purchasing. Apparel that would stand the test of time and work as hard as the men wearing it became dominant in menswear.

Britain has been a front-runner in this trend since its inception. With a long history of manual labour and manufacturing the country has excelled itself in the production of heritage clothing. Responding to the needs of the workforce, many businesses began developing practical and durable clothing, which, over time, has earned an impeccable reputation of quality.

With the reduction in labour intensive occupations in the UK the apparel began to evolve into a fashion trend rather than the style of necessity.

Its recent resurgence has transpired as a result of the recession that has been plaguing the economy since 2008.

The history of manufacturing is influencing consumer decisions more than ever and the respect for clothing companies who produce in Great Britain is growing at a rapid pace. Men are putting their faith in Britain’s heritage brands, supporting homemade products and ethics. A brand with a strong history encourages a strong feeling of confidence within its consumers, ensuring returning custom.

This trend will surely continue as these heritage brands carry on maintaining their devotion to beautifully crafted menswear and the demand for British-made clothing increases.

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Grenson: Shoes with British Sole Established in 1866 Grenson shoemakers. The red-bricked is nestled in the heart of continues to produce quality

is one of Britain’s most renowned factory, which was built in 1895, Northamptonshire. Here the company footwear on a daily basis.

Grenson pride themselves on the history of their brand. For over 100 years the company has gone from strength to strength, overcoming periods of economic uncertainty and reduced demand to remain one of Britain’s most treasured footwear producers.

Made from the finest materials, Grenson shoes are built to last.

The Goodyear Welting method used for the soles not only makes the shoe last longer than most others it also allows for the shoe to be resoled if necessary. Grenson have long since been using this method despite it being a lengthy process. Product quality is a top priority for the brand, which means that only the best methods and materials will be utilised in the process.

Investing time, expertise and quality materials in every pair of shoes makes Grenson standout from the majority of modern shoemakers. Their standards have not wavered over the years, with every pair of shoes being quality checked before distribution.

The company wish to ensure that each and every customer receives a pair of Grenson shoes that they will wear and cherish for years to come.

Purchasing a pair of Grenson shoes is an investment. Not only do the brand offer a repair service ensuring the longevity of the shoes, they will produce bespoke pairs designed by the client.

Customer satisfaction ranks highly on their list of priorities as they endeavour to complete any requests made by potential clients.

The true nature of the brand shines through its products.

The attention to detail coupled with the beauty of exquisite craftsmanship allows the shoes to speak for themselves.

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Beyond the Red-Brick Walls: The Grenson factory is situated on Queen Street in Rushden, Northamptonshire. Set amongst the houses of local residents the factory’s beautiful red-bricked exterior rises high above its surrounding neighbours demanding more than just a glance from those passing by. Even from outside the heritage of the brand is conveyed through the factory’s architecture.

Beyond the doors and up the stairs lie the offices and workshops of the Grenson designers and other employees. Evidence of the brands achievements, collaborations and heritage line the walls, showcasing Grenson’s prosperity over the years.

Through the corridors and down the stairs lies the factory, which sits in a much greater area than the exterior suggests.

Production, finishing and packaging is divided between several rooms, each with their own dedicated and highly skilled employees.

The factory space is home to all of the materials, machines and tools used in the process of producing a pair of Grenson shoes.

The beautiful rolls of leather are stocked in an array of colours to ensure a wide variety of choice for new and bespoke designs.

The aroma of the hides immediately conveys their quality and the vast number of tools and machines throughout the factory show just how detailed the process is.

Visiting a footwear factory for the first time is both exciting and awe-inspiring. From the first fleeting look it is clear that the process of producing a pair of Grenson shoes is far more involved than it would initially appear. Since the brand was established the methods of production have barely been altered as the tried and tested techniques have proven to be the most effective.

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Experiencing the Process: The journey begins in the Clicking and Closing Room, where the leather is examined and cut, following this the expert machinists piece together the components to create a three dimensional upper. Following this stage the upper is taken to the Making and Lasting room. It is in this room where the shoe takes on a rigid shape. An insole is temporarily attached to a ‘last’ – a plastic mould that mimics the foot shape. The upper is then stretched over the top of the ‘last’ and attached to rib of the insole. This detailed process continues with the ‘welt’ being sewn around the shoe and the excess being trimmed off. The insole is then reinforced and filled with cork. The sole is applied and trimmed before the heel is finally attached. The finishing process is then carried out. This includes buffing, polishing and waxing the shoe as well as staining the sole. Finally the shoes are taken through to the Shoe Room. Here a sock is fitted inside the shoe and the Grenson logo is applied to the sole. Before being boxed up ready for distribution each pair is cleaned and scrutinised to ensure that the Grenson standard is upheld.

At each stage a craftsman applies his or her skill and expertise to a shoe that will represent the Grenson name. Experiencing the process establishes an incredible sense of appreciation for the hard work, time and skill involved in producing just one pair of Grenson shoes.

The employees of Grenson have a wealth of experience in the shoemaking industry, which shines through in their work. The relaxed atmosphere in the factory suggests that every employee enjoys their job and takes pride in their work and rightly so; each member of the Grenson team plays an integral part in the preservation of the brands impeccable reputation.

Visiting the factory is a truly insightful experience that brings the beautiful shoes of Grenson to life.

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Grenson and the Heritage Trend: The resurgence in heritage menswear in recent years has truly encompassed Grenson as a company. The functionality and quality of the products make it a staple brand in this trend.

With a greater demand for garments and accessories that have a guaranteed longevity, Grenson has enjoyed increased coverage from the world’s fashion media. A greater number of men are now looking for brands that can deliver quality products with a timeless aesthetic. They want to invest in company’s who have a verified history of excellent craftsmanship and skill.

Naturally Grenson has flourished as this trend has made its return to menswear. The ideals behind the brand mirror that of the trend and the exceptional quality and timeless style of the shoes appeal to the men adopting the heritage style.

After the increased media attention that has made Grenson known to a new customer base, the future of the brand can only be a prosperous one. Backed by its impressive history and highly skilled staff Grenson should look forward to greater expansion in the future as more and more people turn to reliable, quality brands.

Truely British: Private White V.C. Private White V.C. is a brand with a personal story. Inspired

by Jack White, a WW1 hero, it aims to produce clothing that embodies this admirable character. Born in 1896, Jack White joined the army at 18 and did several tours of duty. This commendable soldier fought for his country and saved the lives of many of his comrades.

After being presented with the Victoria Cross, the highest and most esteemed award given to British soldiers, Private Jack White continued serving for the armed forces until the end of the war.

Following his retirement from armed service he moved to Manchester and trained as a pattern cutter. Over the years, Private White progressed from this role, becoming general manager before ultimately taking ownership of the factory.

To this day quality outerwear continues to be produced in the Manchester-based factory with Private White’s great grandchildren at the helm of the business. The factory is one of very few that continues to manufacture in an area that was once a hub of textile activity.

For Private White V.C. British heritage is highly important.

Manufacturing in Britain with locally sourced materials is a major part of the brands ethos. They are pioneers in the quest to breathe life back into the British textile industry, showing other companies that quality garments can be entirely locally produced.

Behind the company’s morals stands Private White himself, who would no doubt be immensely proud of his family for continuing in his footsteps.

No clothing brand could enjoy success without the support of their dedicated employees and Private White is no different.

Generations of families continue to work with each other in the factory, passing down skill and expertise from one family member to the next. The highly skilled technicians and machinists at Private White V.C. are the backbone of the brand, applying their years of experience to every garment they make.

Specialising in outerwear the brands aesthetic closely embodies military style. This echoes Jack White’s own manner of dressing, an aspect that his great grandchildren aim to preserve. The functionality of military style makes the brand very adaptable and desirable. Each garment is carefully designed with the idea of timeless style and durability in mind. The result – immaculately crafted, functional clothing for the everyday modern man.

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Inside the Factory: Approaching the factory it is plain to see that textile production in the area has gradually disappeared. Abandoned factories stand neglected, the shadows of their advertising barely visible on walls.

However, one factory stands out from all of the others, the home of Private White V.C. Windows are ajar and curtains can be seen blowing in the breeze. Its red-bricked walls are testament to its age but it stands proud, as impressive as the day it was built.

Through the door the seemingly intricate layout of the building adds to its charm. Upon reaching the office the friendly, relaxed atmosphere is made quite apparent. Brutus, the friendly Bulldog who the team have deemed the company mascot, roams around under the desks of the employees and surfaces are piled high with patterns, designs and samples.

Up the steep stone staircase and through the heavy, sliding wooden door lays the factory floor. Machinists are hard at work ensuring each garment is constructed perfectly. The atmosphere is lively as the day’s production targets encourage the employees. Pieces of garments move systematically from one area of the room to another, taking on a more fixed form at each point.

The skill and expertise of each employee is evident. The craftsmanship required for each garment is phenomenal as apparel becomes increasingly detailed. Extra pockets and colour-trimmed seams are only two of the additional details that have been added to outerwear in recent years.

A veteran of the trade, Jean Seddon, has seen and experienced the changes in modern menswear. Her account of the trade in today’s society is very much rooted in the need for greater manufacturing in Britain. She has noticed the move towards greater styling and detail in response to a demand for garments that make an impression. Although the styles have evolved the machines used to produce them remain almost the same as they used to be.

Being a versatile craftsman is imperative in this job as the number of people working in the factory is not as great as it used to be. However the familial nature of the team suggests that help is always at hand to guide and advise on problems and challenges.

Heads down and sewing machines stitching at full capacity, the hard working nature of the Private White V.C. employees is obvious and unlike a lot of people they take great pride in the work they produce.

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The Future of Private White V.C. and the Heritage Trend: Despite its roots being deeply embedded in the past, Private White V.C. will undoubtedly play a major part in the future of menswear in Britain.

The resurgence in heritage menswear in the last few years has indeed benefitted Private White V.C. With a greater interest in the aesthetic of a brand such as this, a surge in popularity is almost guaranteed. With their speciality lying in outerwear, the idea of investment is a key part of their sales success. For the majority of men a coat is an item that is expected to have longevity and by investing in Private White V.C. a man can be sure his coat will be keeping him dry for years to come.

The quality of each and every garment made by Private White V.C. is a testimony to Jack White himself. The true heritage of the

brand is consistently portrayed in the clothing through the design of the item and the material that it is made from.

The functionality and durability of the outerwear produced by the brand details just how important the heritage aspect of clothing is to Private White V.C. The company holds great pride in both its British history and its use of British materials and labour both of which are highlighted throughout the offices and factory. It is their attention to these important details that makes the brand notable.

They are a prime example of how to execute the trend and remain true to brand ideals and history as well as showcasing what Britain has to offer.

Being British in Barbour Established in 1894 Barbour has always been a family run business.

Its founder John Barbour first set up the company in the South Shields Market Place situated close to the busy shipyards. Today the company’s headquarters remain in South Shields at the factory that opened in 1981.

Barbour first began producing outdoor wear in response to the growing demand for hardwearing, waterproof work clothes from shipyard workers. The outcome was the Barbour oilskin coat. These practical outdoor garments began to generate interest from a range of people including fisherman, sailors and gentlemen who enjoyed shooting. The practicality of the coat heightened its appeal and it soon became internationally known.

Throughout its impressive lifetime Barbour has produced garments specific to a wide range of activities including fishing, motorcycling, horse riding, shooting and other labour-intensive activities. Alongside this extensive range the brand has also produced garments for the British services, most notably the Ursula suit which became standard issue for the UK’s Submarine Service.

Most recently the company have collaborated with other well known brands as well as up and coming designers. In 2011 collaboration with Grenson saw two of Britain’s most reputable heritage brands come together to produce a range of shoes made with unquestionable skill, design and quality. Other collaborations have included Rockport, Anya Hindmarch and Japanese designer Tokihito Yoshida.

This bold step by Barbour has cemented its presence in the modern fashion world whilst remaining true to the brands heritage.

From the company’s inception right up until the present day it has continually pushed the boundaries of outwear managing to stay ahead of its competitors. Its multi-functional designs and innovative materials have gained the brand prestigious awards and honours, most notably three Royal Warrants, presented by members of the Royal Family.

The quality of its apparel is recognised worldwide. In recent years Barbour has opened own retail stores in the USA, Germany, South Korea and France and is represented in no less than 40 countries in total.

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Barbour and the Heritage Trend: The recent resurgence in the heritage trend has brought the brand to the forefront of outdoor fashion. Always the go-to label for those involved in country pursuits, the appeal of the brand has widen with the increasing interest in this trend.

Barbour’s established history immediately instils confidence in its customers. A brand that has been producing clothing for over 100 years has tried and tested a huge number of manufacturing methods to hone their technique to a fine art. Needless to say Barbour has been through this development to find its perfect method.

Advocates of the heritage trend value apparel that has been carefully considered, both in its design and craftsmanship. This ethos directly applies to Barbour clothing as the brand prides itself on the impeccable standard of all finished products. Each coat is assembled by no less that 36 different people, from pattern cutters right through to quality control.

The experience and skill of the staff is exceptional, with each machinist producing around 25 coats per week. The accuracy of production is extremely important; stitching cannot be reworked, as the jackets would no longer be waterproof. This means that the machinists must apply great precision to their work in order to produce to the quality expected of a Barbour product.

It is this quality that customers come to expect from buying a Barbour item. Purchasing a Barbour coat is a worthwhile investment. With the right care and attention it can last for many years, absorbing its very own bit of history. The company provide a reproofing service and will repair rips, tears and any other casualties that a jacket has accumulated over its years of wear.

The idea of repair not replace, which is promoted throughout the heritage trend, is key part of Barbour’s ethos.

Among many other thoughts that come to mind when thinking of Barbour, its true British heritage is always considered. At home in South Shields the factory is home to a major part of Britain’s manufacturing history. A sense of pride is conjured in the hearts and minds of many Britons when this brand is mentioned.

Barbour is a true British company that has not forgotten its history or traditions.

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Looking to the Future: The heritage trend is continuous. There will always be those that follow the ideal of such a trend but its resurgence in recent years has reasserted its dominance in the world of fashion taking Barbour along with it. The brand’s ideals and beliefs sit flush with those of the heritage trend cementing their future together.

The renaissance of heritage clothing has benefitted Barbour significantly. The brand has been exposed to a much greater market after considerable press and media coverage. This exposure has introduced Barbour to a new generation of consumers ensuring continued popularity and custom.

Barbour will always hold its status as a true British heritage brand. Through continued dedication to the trade the company has showcased British manufacturing at its best.

It is the quality and longevity of Barbour that instils a sense of brand loyalty in its patrons. It is their dedication to the brand that has inspired the younger generation to invest in Barbour and its exceptional apparel. The future of the brand will undoubtedly be filled with success. The demand for superior design and craftsmanship will continue to grow and with it Barbour’s already outstanding reputation.

Tricker’s In 1829, master shoemaker Joseph Tricker founded R.E. Tricker Ltd. To this day, five generations later, his family continue to produce exceptional quality footwear from the company’s home in Northampton, the heart of British shoemaking.

The St. Michael’s Road factory deals with all aspects of the business including design, manufacture, administration and marketing. Their unchanging residence in the heart of Northampton depicts just how grounded the company have remained despite its global status.

For over 180 years the company have produced beautiful footwear with an undeniable level of quality. The skill applied to every pair of shoes by the master craftsmen of Tricker’s is becoming increasingly rare in the world of shoe making, which is what makes a pair of Tricker’s even more special. Using only the best materials and the most trusted methods the Tricker’s craftsmen apply the trusted Goodyear Welt to the shoes to ensure a degree of longevity, comfort and durability.

Tricker’s produce both handmade and bench made shoes in a bid to cater to all of their clients’ needs. Bespoke services like this are becoming increasingly rare and are often only available from traditional companies with a long history of manufacturing. As an extension of this bespoke service, Tricker’s also provides a rebuild and repair service. Many pairs of cherished Tricker’s have been lovingly restored to their original condition in the Northampton factory giving the owner many more years of wear. It is undeniable that purchasing a pair of Tricker’s is an investment; with the right care and attention a pair could last a lifetime.

The long and extensive history behind Tricker’s makes it a desirable brand to invest in. Knowing the level of skill and craftsmanship that a brand devotes to its products is imperative when buying a pair of shoes. However the reputation of the brand speaks for itself. Known globally as a purveyor of British shoemaking excellence, Tricker’s always has will continue to develop a loyal client base.

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With the heritage trend spreading the idea of superior quality apparel Tricker’s are becoming more widely known across a wider spectrum of people. A greater appreciation and respect for brands that consider quality as a top priority has blossomed, which has encouraged Tricker’s to creatively encompass the demands of new clients.

In a bid to bring Tricker’s closer to a more style driven demographic, the company has collaborated with End Hunting Co. on several occasions producing exclusive and limited edition collections. Each collection sees Tricker’s applying a fresh and creative detail to their timeless and traditional designs. One of the most notable collaborations is the ‘Colour Card’ Pack, which combines the premium workmanship of the Stow Brogue Boot with the influence of the industry standard colour cards. Three different colour leather uppers sit atop three brightly coloured Dainite soles. This is a true representation of how the heritage trend can be revived in a contemporary manner by traditional British brands. The ongoing collaborations between Tricker’s and End Hunting Co. showcase the respect that each brand has for the others philosophy.

It is clear that Tricker’s is a brand that will continue to prosper in years to come. By staying true to its heritage yet understanding and encompassing the demands of its new customers it will continue to build its already impeccable reputation.

As an ambassador for British manufacturing, Tricker’s is British treasure that deserves its exceptional skill, craftsmanship and products to be celebrated for many years to come.

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Peregrine: A Generation Journey With a history of textiles spanning over 200 years it is safe to say that Peregrine have a rich heritage. This family business has been producing quality clothes for eight generations.

Through revolutions and World Wars the company has stayed true to its ethos and continues to produce all of its garments in Britain.

J G Glover & Co Ltd was set up in 1796 and throughout the years each generation has carried on expanding and developing the family business. Today, with over 200 years of textile knowledge behind them, the business is still going strong.

In 1956 Donald Glover created the Peregrine brand. Backed by a wealth of experience Donald pushed the business forward in a bid to take advantage of the expanding wholesale market. In 1971 John Glover took over as the business’ managing director.

Following lucrative contracts with several department stores throughout the 1970’s and early 1980’s, Peregrine was forced to move to smaller premises as their former clients sought out cheaper production overseas. It was at this point in the late 1980’s that Peregrine refocused production and concentrated on producing quality British clothing.

Drawing on its expansive history Peregrine has fully asserted its status as a British heritage brand over the last twenty years. Focussing its efforts on producing garments with an exceptional level of craftsmanship and quality, Peregrine is a heritage brand that has successfully combined company heritage and contemporary design.

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North East Heritage: Nigel Cabourn As newcomer to the clique of British heritage menswear brands, Nigel Cabourn has successfully asserted its position in the menswear market producing exceptional quality garments.

With an impressive 40 years experience in the fashion industry Nigel Cabourn knows his trade inside and out. His life in fashion began at Northumbria University where he became a student in 1967.

After starting his own label for his final collection Nigel opted to stay in the North East of England, against many recommendations of people in the industry.

The mixed landscape of the north has provided Nigel with a wealth of inspiration over the years. The industrial working sector has inspired a functional approach to his designs and the natural, rugged landscape has encouraged a variety of fabrics and textures to be included in his garments.

However, his most notable inspiration is his extensive 4000 piece vintage collection that is stored at The Garden House, the brands’ showroom and hub of creativity. This impressive collection of clothes has been the source of many of the Cabourn collections.

Included in this massive wardrobe of time-honoured garments and accessories are uniforms from the British military, a vast array of work wear apparel and exploration attire that Nigel has sourced from around the globe.

Each collection has drawn inspiration from different sources but a set of common denominators drives every one: narrative, design integrity, historical reflection and quality. These ideals are the foundation of the Nigel Cabourn brand and are never compromised.

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The brand has swiftly risen up the ranks to become one of Britain’s most notable outwear producers. Stocked in many stores both throughout Britain and internationally, the location of the brand has not hampered its growth. On the contrary, its unconventional location has added to its heritage appeal, as the majority of heritage brands are not based in the country’s fashion capital of London. The reasons behind the brands location are part of the story that makes the brand what it is today.

The wealth of historical inspiration behind the Nigel Cabourn collections projects an image of a brand that has been producing quality garments for many years. The attention to detail and the use of excellent fabrics coupled with a traditional approach to design all contribute to the heritage feel of the brand.

Sitting comfortably within the aesthetic of the recently revived heritage trend, Nigel Cabourn is one of Britain’s treasured menswear brands. Designed in, and often inspired by Britain, the Nigel Cabourn brand is quietly patriotic but it is this that makes the garments appealing overseas.

With or without the popularity of the heritage trend the brand will always remain true to its ideals of quality and originality.

The future of Nigel Cabourn will of course see the brand expand and grow, however its heart will always lie with its namesake in the cold and blustery North East of England.

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Albam: Continuing the Trend Relatively new to the menswear scene having only been founded in 2006, Albam is a growing brand with a strong idea. The concept for the brand is the brainchild of James Shaw and Alistair Rae, two young men from Nottingham.

The initial idea behind Albam was to produce a small capsule of well-made basics. Focussing primarily on the quality of the products, the duo envisaged creating a brand that would outlive the initial hype and become a staple British brand providing timeless apparel.

Minimalism and simplicity are key factors in the Albam design aesthetic. They aim to provide a range of garments that have been carefully considered and crafted with great care. This approach to fashion design has fostered a growing success rate for the brand as it products offer an effortless and uncomplicated standard of dress, which is appealing to a wide range of men. Albam bypass ‘of the moment’ trends in favour of adopting traditional design methods.

With clear influences from traditional British work wear, the functionality of Albam’s clothes is a notable feature in every collection. Subtle elbow patches and the use of durable fabrics in everyday shirts ensure their longevity and makes them a practical clothing choice.

Keeping the brand true to its original philosophy becomes a harder task as demand increases. It is the reaction to the brands growing popularity that will determine whether Albam will become a British heritage brand in years to come. The loyalty it shows to its ethos will cement the brand’s position in British menswear. Albam has noted and adopted the traditions of the past and has applied them to a modern brand. This fusion of old and new will drive the ideas of the heritage trend into the future of British menswear.

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Folk: The Future of British Heritage Based in London, Folk first opened in 2001. Although not strictly a heritage brand the design ethic behind the company is in keeping with the ideals that make up the trend. It is forging the way for new brands that value the methods of their elders.

Quality and detail lie at the heart of Folk but its true talent lies in its ability to produce clothes of this nature whilst managing to retain an understated appeal. Alongside garments from long-established brands, Folk would not stand out as a newcomer to the trade.

Priding itself on the attention to detail in all of its garments, Folk is quickly becoming a go-to brand for men seeking quality apparel. The everyday style of the clothes makes them versatile and easy to wear, an attribute that is in high demand in modern menswear.

The detailed craftsmanship that is apparent in every piece has been projected into their stores through the use of natural and reclaimed materials. Each Folk store is a functional and ethical approach to interior design, creating an inviting and relaxed atmosphere.

It is brands like this that are the future of the heritage trend.

Folk have recognised the qualities that make up a heritage brand and have adopted and moulded them into an ethos of their own. By recognising what makes a brand last and the components needed to make reputable products, Folk have created a strong foundation for a brand that has the potential to become a British treasure.

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End Hunting Co.: Heritage Ambassadors As stockists of some of the world’s most prestigious menswear brands, End Clothing in Newcastle is a haven for men who seek quality apparel.

Opening in 2005 in response to a growing demand for globally sourced menswear, End is enjoying growing success both online and in store. In 2009 following the rising popularity of both the End store and the heritage trend, the owners opened End Hunting Co. Marketed as a concept store, End Hunting Co. is home to brands with a high level of quality and craftsmanship.

Two doors down from its elder sibling, End Hunting Co. projects its heritage aesthetic on to the cobbled street with its panelled window shop front. With its distinctive look, this traditional window style draws the eye and promotes a sense of intrigue in passers by.

Pushing open the wooden door reveals a rich heritage shopping experience. Unlike other stores, End Clothing Co. has a carefully considered design, layout and decoration. Its dĂŠcor, designed to give the impression of a hunting cabin, is an authentic representation of the heritage theme.

A collection of interesting and fascinating objects has been sourced to bring the concept to life, each one an oddity with its own history.

Together these pieces add the finishing touches making this a truly experiential store.

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The brands in store share a common design ethic taking pride in the level of the craftsmanship that goes into each piece they create. End Hunting Co. aims to celebrate these brands and show appreciation for the quality goods they produce. Although the rustic interiors project the feel of a cabin in the British countryside, global brands do not look out of place. The store is home for quality and craftsmanship regardless of origin.

The product layout in store is thoughtfully designed. There is no commercial or corporate feeling, only a relaxed and calming atmosphere that promotes a stress free experience when perusing the garments. Accessories are placed throughout the store to enable customers to see what works together. The lack of designated sections gives End Hunting Co. a unique feel that allows the store to flow with ease. The customer can appreciate the products with out having the brands forced upon them. With a wide selection of brands available, End Hunting Co. is dedicated to supplying quality clothing as opposed to fashion.

End Hunting Co. has successfully brought the heritage trend to life. As the demand for quality, crafted garments and accessories rises so does the reputation of End Hunting Co. as they provide not only the brands but the full experience behind the idea of heritage wear.

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The Heritage Revival Heritage in fashion is defined as ‘denoting a traditional brand or product regarded as emblematic of fine craftsmanship.’

Throughout history Britain has been known for its production of textiles, which has built a global reputation of excellence. Its manufacturers have responded to the countries needs and demands in times of social and economic change and in periods of warfare. Innovative materials have been developed and designs have pushed the boundaries but now these pioneering garments have become British heritage. The revolutionary garments of the textile industry are now tried and tested items that are cherished for generations.

Move to the present day and fashion is more important than ever. Apparel is no longer designed as a functional necessity; it is created in response to a heightened consumer demand. Clothing is now bought frequently and as a luxury rather than a necessity. For many people, the clothes they buy hold no emotional value and are rarely treasured. The large fashion chains have dominated the market, outsourcing production in favour of cheaper labour rather than British quality. This trend has been in full flow for many years now however the economic climate has instigated a shift in the habits of some consumers.

Since the recession hit in 2008 menswear has been experiencing a revival of the heritage trend. Functional and traditional menswear is flooding the fashion market but it is the garments that are produced by British companies that embody the true nature of the heritage trend.

Several factors have influenced the resurgence of the trend, most notably the economy. Men are sourcing apparel from reliable brands with a long history to ensure the quality of their purchase. It is at this point that brand such as Grenson, Barbour and Private White V.C. are considered.

Advocates of the trend hold these brands in high esteem because a brand with a history has perfected their trade producing items of the great quality.

Although their prices are higher than mainstream retailers, buying from a British heritage brand is a long-term investment.

Social aspects have also encouraged the trend. The revival of heritage in fashion has been influenced by an increased sense of British pride. This social factor has arisen as a consequence of the recent economic position of the country as more people are favouring ‘buying British’ choosing to invest their money in UK companies, which will benefit Britain’s economy.

This current resurgence has favoured some of Britain’s oldest clothing brands bringing them back into the hearts and minds of consumers. The trend is driven by the ideas of quality, craftsmanship and functionality, which are all important attributes of the British brands in question. The heritage trend has a timeless quality, making it wearable and adaptable for the everyday man.

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Made in Britain