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introduction Jeff Banks has been at the forefront of British fashion throughout five decades. He has won numerous awards and citations around the world. His career can truly claim that he has changed the course of fashion as we know it today.
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clobber 1964
Jeff Banks with partner Tony Harley in the design studio of Clobber, 1965
Clobber opened in 1964 and was one of the first handful of new ‘boutiques’ to open in Great Britain setting the tone of what was to make London the fashion epicentre of the world in the 1960’s.
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Mary Quant had two shops in
small village of Blackheath. The
Clobber collection to feature in the
London, Top Gear and Count down,
crowd was such that mounted
new Young Eastside departments
owned by James Wedge on
police had to attend to take
that Bloomingdales were opening
the Kings Road. Kiki Byrne was
control.
in all their stores. This again
also on Kings Road whilst Tracy
In early 1965 Clobber came
enlarged the activity in America
Major owned a single outpost
to the attention of the London
with Bloomingdales buying agent
in Middlesborough. Biba hadn’t
buying Director of Puritan Fashion
A.M.C recommending Clobber to
opened its doors at this stage.
Sandy Moss who selected the
many store groups across the USA
Clobber became a magnet for
Clobber brand to become a key
including Nieman Marcus, Filenes
fashion hungry customers across
brand in twenty six boutiques
And Nordstrom. At the same time
Britain as well as attracting regular
that Puritan were opening in
the distribution of Clobber in Britain
visitors from France and Germany.
New
Chicago
began to enlarge substantially with
The opening of Clobber in 1964
and Washington. This opening
some hundred shops and stores
attracted
the
attracted the attention in New York
beginning to stock the Clobber
pop, film and theatre world with
of Ida Schalino of Bloomingdales
brand.
onlookers swelling to 10,000 in the
who flew to London to buy the
luminaries
from
York,
Boston,
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1966 In 1966 the chairman of Fenwicks in Newcastle Mr Trevor Fenwick Senior decided to open the first shop in shop in Britain, a concept he had seen in America, and opened a branch of Clobber within the prestigious store. forerunner
continuing success in selling its
giant Raybeck Ltd. This was the
of a whole style of fashion
unique style design across the
first personality branding exercise
retailing
country
United States. In America Clobber
in the UK and probably the world
with concessions becoming a
was licensed for manufacture and
with distribution across Britain and
standard practice of retailing.
distribution to Arnold Friedman.
Europe with many leading mail
its
Two other licensors that Arnold
order companies and retailers.
new
Friedman carried were French
In 1969 Jeff Banks sold his interest
Street
designers Daniel Hechter and
in Clobber to his partner and
London and enlarged to become
Jean Claude Castleberjac.
opened his own fashion company,
a multi-million pound business.
In 1967 Clobber signed Eurovision
The
Clobber
through
Song contestant winner Sandie
Company, to manufacture and
Europe showing in Copenhagen
Shaw to an exclusive design
market the designs of Jeff Banks.
Dusseldorf
arrangement with clothing industry
This
In
became across
1967
wholesale premises
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the the
Clobber
moved
business in
to
Mortimer
expanded and
Paris
with
International
Clothing
Sandie Shaw wearing Clobber crochet bikini, 1968
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JEFF BANKS 1969
The success of Jeff Banks was almost instantaneous with hundreds of fashion stores from Miss Selfridge to Browns in South Molton Street carrying the Jeff Banks brand.
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The secret of the success of Jeff
Peter Randell who with Jeff and a
Stores
Banks was expensive high quality
committee of fashion luminaries
Harrods, Harvey Nichols, Liberty
fashion that competed in both
created a vibrant export oriented
in London as well as stores in
quality and design with in many of
arm of British Fashion. At the same
Britain’s major city centres like
the new fashion brands emerging
time Jeff was invited to become
Rackhams in Birmingham, Kendal
in Europe. In 1969 Jeff Banks
a member of The Association of
Milne in Manchester and Fenwicks
was amongst the first ten British
Fashion Designers and became
in Newcastle. At the same time Jeff
companies to exhibit in Paris within
the youngest committee member
Banks opened its own showrooms
the newly founded Paris Prêt a
with a group of long establishes
in New York and began showing
Porter. In 1970 in conjunction with
fashion companies such as Frank
in a specialist stand at the Prêt
Douglas Lewis Jeff Banks formed
Usher, Mansfield, John Marks and
a Porter in Paris in conjunction
The
Andre Peters.
with Stirling Cooper, Quorum and
forming a body that was the
The Jeff Banks brand quickly
John Marks. This led to Jeff Banks
forerunner of the British Fashion
established
showing collections in Dusseldorf,
Council to promote British fashion
distribution with departments in
abroad. In 1971 Douglas Lewis
most large prestigious department
left and his role was taken over by
stores across the country.
Clothing
Export
Council
a
platform
of
such
as
Selfridges,
Paris, New York and Tokyo.
Jeff Banks photographed in new showrooms in Cavendish Square, 1971
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Design & Sales staff prepare for a night out at the first Jeff Banks showroom in Cavendish Square, London 1970.
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Jeff Banks logo during the early 1970’s
1971 For four prestigious years the Jeff Banks brand grew across Britain, manufacturing a brand of high quality fashion to successfully compete with many of the world’s leading brands.
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In 1971 Jeff Banks opened head
four weeks before the opening of
either at the Savoy Hotel or the
office and warehouse facilities
the Jeff Banks shop in Duke Street
Dorchester during this period
in Cleveland St, London and
London. All stock for the new
continued the upward growth of
sales showrooms in Cavendish
shop and orders for hundreds
the brand. By 1977 Jeff Banks
Square London W1. Also in 1971
of accounts expecting their new
had twenty two shop in shops
Jeff Banks began a life long
season’s deliveries were lost in
in Britain as well as some three
association with education taking
the fire. Six months later Jeff Banks
hundred other accounts in Britain
on the role of external examiner at
amalgamated
Rembrandt
carrying Jeff Banks. In 1979 Jeff
Liverpool School of Art invited by
Ltd Japanese owned fashion
Banks became British Designer
Jean Muir who was the college’s
group who were to continue to
of the Year, in 1980 British Coat
Visiting Professor.
grow and develop the Jeff Banks
Designer of the Year and in 1981
In 1975 The International Clothing
brand for the next four years from
British Designer of the Year for the
Company
new showrooms in Market Place,
second time. It was as a result of
Cleveland Street were burnt out
London W1.
this second win that Jeff began a
after an arsonist attack causing
With the clout of the Japanese
long career in television.
the closure of the offices and
financial backing Jeff Banks grew
distribution centre. This occurred
steadily both home and abroad.
over the August Bank Holiday and
Twice yearly collections shown
Headquarters
in
with
Marie Helvin wearing Jeff Banks linen collection, 1976
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Warehouse launch 1976
In 1976 due to poor supply of products due to the fire, Jeff’s partners in the Jeff Banks retail store in Duke Street asked Jeff if he had any ideas to use the store in a different way as they were tied into a long and expensive lease. of
designer clothes. This was design
his wholesale Designer Collection
Warehouse. Using his design
from the drawing board straight to
with Rembrandt and concentrate
team and manufacturing contacts
the customer which many years
fully on developing Warehouse.
he created a low price high quality
later was to become the model for
Michael, Maurice and Jeff took
range of designer clothes retailed
the high street retail revolution that
over a small Bath based company
in a spartan environment based
swept Britain and subsequently
Evans & Owen and using the
on the ‘high tech’ decorating rage
America.
public Company status of their
of the time.
The head designers of Jigsaw,
two hundred year old company
The range was fast moving but
Monsoon and Oasis all worked
raised the finance to expand
of high quality. It instantaneously
for Jeff Banks in those formulative
the Warehouse Brand. Twenty
became a success story. Jeff’s
years poached from Warehouse
branches
partners in the new venture were
to enable the formulae to be
quickly opened in all the major
Michael and Mourice Bennett.
reproduced. Shops in Oxford
cities from Bath to Glasgow.
Queues regularly formed around
Street and Brompton Road quickly
Warehouse had become not only
the block at the first shop in
followed in 1977 and Warehouse
a force to be reckoned with but
Duke Street and a cult status was
had begun to grow. This radical
also a new direction for fashion
quickly achieved with fashion
departure in the method of getting
retailing. Next, Monsoon, French
insiders desperate to acquire
fashion to the public did not go
Connection, River Island all began
the latest new looks at a half of
unnoticed by the fashion industry.
to follow suit.
the price usually expected for
In 1981 Jeff decided to forego
Jeff
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created
the
idea
across
the
country
Deidre McGuire on the front cover of Warehouse magazine, 1981
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Front cover of Warehouse first magazine inspired by the artist Christo
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Deirdre McGuire and Kate Hatch wearing early Warehouse collection
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Deirdre McGuire and Kate Hatch wearing Warehouse collection in the early 1980s
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Warehouse catwalk show, Brompton Road 1980
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the eurythmics 1981
Annie Lennox wearing Jeff Banks in the look that became the hallmark of the Eurythmics
In 1981 Dave Stewart and Annie Lennox created the iconic band the Eurythmics. In 1981 Dave and Annie disbanded their band the tourists and reformed as the Eurythmics. Both Annie and Dave were looking for a new identity that would capture the spirit of the androgynous look of the early 80’s that was prevalent at the time, They turned to Jeff Banks after and introduction by Sue Mann who was working on their make-up look at the time. A five year relationship developed that saw Jeff create wardrobes for stage appearances, European tours and album covers. The Annie Lennox look became part of the fashion history of the time. The Victoria and Albert museum devoted a retrospective exhibition to Annie Lennox in April 2012, where some of the most iconic Jeff Banks outfits from the era were featured.
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Pebble Mill 1982
A producer of the daily magazine television show in Birmingham saw Jeff’s acceptance speech of the 1981 British Designer of the Year awards broadcast by Yorkshire Television and phoned suggesting he could become Pebble Mill’s fashion presenter as he appeared to have a natural, easy style in front of the camera.
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This led to a weekly television spot
their appearance on Pebble Mill.
weave them together into a thirty
on Pebble Mill at One where he
In five years, Jeff made nearly
minute
created short videos each week
two hundred appearances on
This concept was presented to
showing the latest trends and
Pebble Mill.
Michael Grade the then controller
interviewing most of the leading
At this time there was no fashion
of BBC1 by Pebble Mill studios
British Fashion Designers bringing
on television as such and in
as a possible concept for new
them to the notice of the British
1984 Jeff created a magazine
programmes. It was rejected on
Public for the first time via television.
concept television show titled
the grounds that there was not
Designers such as Bruce Oldfield,
The Clothes Show using footage
sufficient interest in fashion as a
Wendy Dagworthy, Betty Jackson
of the videos he had created
subject.
and John Richmond became
for Pebble Mill, editing them
household names partially due to
together and recording links to
concept
programme.
Pebble Mill at One TV show, 1982
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1983 In 1983 Jeff began a long collaboration with photographer John Bishop who in his younger years had shared an apartment in New York with John Casablancas who owned the Elite model agency.
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Jeff created, using John for
New York models were now
In 1984 Jeff Banks and Warehouse
photography, a new form of
hearing
London
won the British Fashion Council
fashion
collaboration and all wanted to
Retailer of the year award. The
magazine inserted into Fashion
come to London.
visual
magazines. The first of its kind
Warehouse went on to work with
was also highly recognised. The
featured a young New York model
many prestigious photographers
head of display was a young
Deidre McGuire who became
apart from Bishop such as Terence
James McLusky who won the
the face of the early eighties.
Donavan, Tony McGee, Kim Knott,
Retail Display awards five years
Her
look
Robert Erdman and the renowned
in succession from 1981 to
represented the era. This style of
Norman Parkinson. In 1985 Jeff
1986. Members of the display
fashion advertising is now much
had six well known photographers
team under James now hold the
imitated. The next young model
create a 100 page tribute to
positions of Head of Display at
from the Elite stable was Andie
Norman Parkinson which was not
Wallis, Head of Design at Gemini
MacDowell who at seventeen was
only distributed across Britain but
Mannequin and Head of Design at
making a big impact in America
also formed a tribute exhibition at
Adele Rootstein mannequins.
but had not been to Europe.
the Hamilton Gallery.
advertising,
blond
the
androgynous
style
about
this
display
of
Warehouse
Andie MacDowell on the second Warehouse magazine, 1984
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Picture by Norman Parkinson for Warehouse tribute Magazine, 1987
1984 In 1984 Warehouse began a series of shopping centre fashion shows in Leeds. This for many years became part of the Warehouse marketing strategy with shows in Manchester, Glasgow, and Nottingham bringing fashion to the general public. In 1985 with collaboration from two New Yorkers, Richards Krantz and Catherine Deane, Warehouse opened its first New York branch. Ten more stores were to follow in two years.
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Self portrait by Norman Parkinson in his tribute Warehouse magazine
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Lisa Marie for Warehouse, 1987
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Tilda Swinton for Warehouse, 1987
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Bymail 1985
In 1985 after a copyright dispute with Warehouse the Mail order company Freemans proposed a more formal arrangement. Jeff created Warehouse Bymail a “Specialogue” as it was called.
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It contained forty eight pages of
of Empire stores, Grattan and also
subject of an unwelcome takeover
Warehouse clothing, different from
a director of the mail order giant in
bid by the UK retailing giant Sears
that available in the stores but with
Germany Otto Versand.
(nothing to do with the American
its own handwriting and formulae
So successful was the association
Company). Warehouse became
of affordable great fashion items.
with Freemans that to protect their
a division of Sears’ retail and
This grew to three catalogues for
interest Ralph Aldred the then
apart from substantial growth in
high fashion, one for men and
Managing Director proposed a
womenswear, also opened nine
one for more classical women’s
takeover of Warehouse in 1987.
menswear shops on the back
clothes.
enormously
This was to provide the next push
of Bymail men that was enjoying
successful and at one point had
forward to a forty stores financed
great success.
over 1.2 million subscribers and
by Freeman P.L.C.
The entrepreneurial spirit of Jeff
live customers.
In 1987 Freemans arranged the
Banks and Sears however did
This was to become the pre-
distribution of Bymail in America
not match and in 1989 Jeff Banks
cursor of catalogues such as the
with the Sears group U.S.A with
resigned from Sears and began a
Next Directory. The young man
Bymail going out to 17 million
new direction.
in charge of this ‘specialogue’
customers in the U.S.A.
operation in Freemans was Mike
In 1988 Michael and Maurice
Hawker who subsequently went
resigned in dispute with Freemans
on to become managing Director
and Freemans itself was the
All
were
Christy Turlington cover for Bymail, 1985
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xxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxx 19??
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Cindy Crawford wearing Jeff Banks in Egypt, 1986
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Stephanie Seymour Warehouse cover, 1985
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Christy Turlington Warehouse cover, 1985
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Cindy Crawford for Warehouse, 1985
Christy Turlington for Warehouse, 1985
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Warehouse classic, 1986
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Warehouse classic, 1986
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Warehouse men 1986
In 1986 the very successful ByMail catalogue created a Menswear offer. The silhouette was typical of the era with wide shoulders combined with smart tailoring and an athletic dance inspired look.
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The Smirnoff Awards 1986
In 1986 Jeff Banks was asked by the Public Relations Company Cartmell Associates to create an idea that would lend fashionability to the relatively new drink in Britain of Vodka. The solution was to create a competition that could be entered by any fashion student in the country regardless of their course, with judging carried out by a prestigious panel of judges. Judging and final fashion show was to be held at the Albert Hall. The themes for the competition were created in Paris by a company called Promostyle, a trend prediction organisation. There were over six hundred entries in the first year and the Smirnoff awards very quickly became the ‘one to win’. It went on to be replicated in 33 countries and now has an International Final as well as individual finals held in all countries sadly except Britain. Thousands of students have now benefited from this award scheme.
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need pic
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Warehouse 1987
Throughout the development of the Warehouse chain the retail architecural design won numerous awards. The design development was a collaboration between Jeff Banks and Stuart Lever Associates.
Warehouse interiors, 1987
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Mandy Smith wearing Warehouse designed by Jeff Banks, 1987
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Warehouse Newcastle
Warehouse King Street, Manchester
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Warehouse Autumn Winter Catalogue, 1986
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Warehouse Catalogue, 1986
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supermodels Jeff Banks was very much at the forefront of the supermodel phenomena. It was after a chance phone call with John Casablanca of the Elite model agency in New York that Jeff brought the first of what would become the first supermodels to London. At that time they were unknown but by constantly using these high profile girls as well as constantly featuring them on his television show The Clothes Show they became household names. The list is endless but includes the following: Deirdre McGuire Andy McDowell Christy Turlington Cindy Crawford Naomi Campbell Carla Bruni Stephanie Seymour
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Carla Bruni for Bymail Spring/Summer 1985
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Christy Turlington and Cindy Crawford for Bymail Autumn/ Winter, 1988
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Stephanie Seymour and Naomi Campbell for Bymail Spring/ Summer, 1988
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The Clothes show 1987
Although Jeff Banks’ first approach to BBC1 controller of television Michael Grade was rejected in 1984 Michael Grade (now Lord Grade) returned to the BBC after a stint in America to become controller of the BBC in 1987.
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Michael phoned Jeff at home late
For some two years the BBC
to show their blossoming fashion
one night in 1987 to ask if anything
Clothes Show was to be the only
industries. In 1991 the show was
had happened to the fashion
television company broadcasting
moved by the new controller
programme idea. The answer was
all the major fashion shows
BBC1 Jonathan Powell to a
no! This was June and Michael
from Milan, Paris and London.
Sunday evening slot and the
asked if Jeff could produce eleven
When New York fashion week
audience rose to just under 10
shows to go on air by September.
commenced in 1996 the organiser
million. In 1995 with the launch
He phoned Jeff at midnight to
Fern Britain made special “access
of BBC World the programme
suggest his co-presenter could be
all areas” for The Clothes Show
was broadcast worldwide with
Selina Scott. His plan was for an
and interviews with all major
an estimated audience at 150
afternoon show as he was looking
American designers such was
million each week. Jeff Banks
to revitalise afternoon viewing
the importance in which the
was not only responsible for
figures. Jeff’s proposal was that
show was viewed in America.
hosting the show but was also
if the audience figures exceeded
The Clothes Show covered every
responsible for the story lines and
3 million the show would move
major fashion event for ten years
new innovations such as Model of
to an evening slot. After just two
in over three hundred broadcast
the Year Competition, Bride of the
shows the figures were exceeding
shows. It was the first show to
Year Competition and Christmas
3 million and true to his word the
perform make overs on members
Specials created in town centres
show was moved to Wednesday
of the public and started a whole
and work places across the
evenings from January 1988.
new
country.
At that time it was the only
participation television. The show
terrestrially broadcast television
made programmes abroad in
show on the subject of fashion in
twenty six different countries often
the world.
invited by National Governments
generation
of
audience
Jeff Banks with Selina Scott, 1986
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was
In 1990 Jeff Banks was invited to
In 1991 Jeff Banks was chosen
responsible for creating the genre
select the ‘Costume of the Year’
by Menswear Industry as British
of Supermodels with continuous
by the Bath Museum of Costume.
Menswear Journalist of the Year
interviews with the likes of Christy
This
amongst
as a result of the exposure given
Turlington, Cindy Crawford, Linda
journalists to either recognise
to menswear design on Clothes
Evangelista, Stephanie Seymour,
a long established talent or hail
Show. Jeff Banks resigned from
Karen
Naomi
a new emerging talent. Jeff
the Clothes Show in 1998 and
Campbell. This was all brought
prophetically chose a black and
one year later the programme was
about through Jeff Banks having
white check outfit by the relatively
withdrawn from television due to
brought them to Europe for the
unknown designer John Galliano
falling audiences.
first time to work on Warehouse on
as his choice.
The
Clothes
Molder
Bymail catalogues.
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Show
and
is
an
honour
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vivienne westwood 1987
In 1987 Jeff was approached by Mark Tarbard, a mutual friend of both Jeff and Vivienne to ask if he would help Vivienne establish her own fashion label. Jeff lent to the designer without guarantee priming funds to get started and acted as guarantor for banking facilities. Jeff established the company appointed public relations expert Jean Bennett show producer John Woolford to produce Vivienne’s first shows and tutored her young son Joe Corre to run the business. Jeff also established and negotiated Vivienne’s first lucrative licences in Japan. He took no equity or financial recompense from the fledgling business but felt that it was important that this British Designer become properly established.
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Jeff with Vivienne Westwood, 1987
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The Girl Guide Association 1987
In 1987 at the request of Dr June Patterson Brown the Chief Guider, Jeff Banks was asked to create a new world wide uniform for the Girl Guide Association.
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The little brown dress was deemed
The whole project was to take two
association. Each set of designs
to be outdated (worn by the
years with endless research and
had to be verified and voted upon.
Queen when she was a Brownie)
study group meetings. Jeff set
All were proposed and seconded
and also inappropriate for many
up design group meetings and
with final approval being given by
of the tasks that the modern
competitions so that Rainbows,
The Princess. It was all passed
Guide movement undertook. The
Brownies, Guides and Rangers
and such was the shock at this
association had over 1.2 million
across the country could become
monumental
members and was the largest
involved in the design process
approved
single organisation in Britain. Since
and take ownership of their
Highnesses
it inception in 1910 the uniform
design. In mid 1988 Jeff Banks
fainted in shock.
had changed little and the 75th
presented his design work to
Jeff Banks carried out the whole
anniversary had passed without
the HRH Princess Margaret at
process free of charge and
the redesign that Dr Patterson-
Kensington Palace who gave her
donated all the copyright to the Girl
Brown desperately wanted. In
approval to the design work and
Guide Association. Royalties from
addition the organisation received
sample production began with a
the sale of all uniforms now pass
no financial benefit from the sale of
final presentation of the finished
to the G.G.A and over ÂŁ10 million
its uniforms which were made and
designs were made to Her Royal
has been received as a result.
distributed by various companies
Highness
with no remuneration going to the
Halls in Whitehall and modelled
association itself.
by 250 members of the Guide
at
the
banqueting
process
one
of
ladies
being
her
Royal
in
waiting
New Brownie uniform launched in 1987, but worn by the Duchess of Cambridge during her time as a Brownie.
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1988 The 1980s was a period of extremes in fashion. Hair, make up and clothes were all pushed to the limit. The Christmas look for Warehouse in 1988 was not for the faint hearted. The styling and colour was pushing the limit and hair and make up were also taking colour to the extreme.
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The Clothes Show Live 1988
In response to a viewer’s letter asking for tickets to fashion shows in either London or Paris Jeff realised how few members of the public ever saw a fashion show. In 1988 in conjunction with BBC the Ideal Home, The Motor show courses to young people and and Barker Brown Exhibitions Jeff and The Boat Show. The exhibition also space for The Princes Trust created Clothes Show Live where included a giant fashion show in a to display the work of business members of the public could meet purpose built catwalk theatre that set up by the Princes Trust in the the presenters, see fashion shows seated 8000 visitors for each show. fashion and jewellery fields. This and engage with new products Seven shows a day for six days all association was to prove a long and techniques in hair and make hosted and commentated by Jeff association with Jeff Banks and the up. The first event was held at banks and Caryn Franklyn. Even Princes Trust. Clothes Show Live Olympia with a level of success without the support of a television with the addition of the word ‘Live’ that almost saw the event closed show the exhibition continues to was to become a precursor for the by the London Fire Department. At attract over 150,000 visitors each BBC to create exhibitions around one stage on the first Sunday the year although Jeff Banks no longer many of their leading programmes exhibition was full to capacity with plays a part in the event. the queues for entry completely
such as Gardner’s World, Top Gear
In 1995 the event was also and Master Chef.
surrounded the exhibition venue launched in Glasgow attracting In
January
1996
Jeff
Banks
with over 12,000 people queuing over 40,000 visitors over a three combined with the D.T.I to create an
to gain access at any one time. day period.
exhibition
in
Hong
Kong
The exhibition was transferred As part of the Jeff Banks artistic featuring the work of ten British to the N.E.C in Birmingham and control over the Clothes Show Companies. The exhibition and occupied ten halls with over Live he was able to insist that show was hosted by Jeff Banks 250,000 visitors each year. It free exhibition space was given and Mary Quant and succeeded in quickly grew to being the fourth to
Graduate
largest exhibition in Britain following Universities
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to
Fashion promote
Week bringing a heightened awareness their of British Fashion to Hong Kong.
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DRapers record Independent Retailer of the Year Awards 1988
In 1988 Julia Warkentyn who was the editor of Drapers Record approached Jeff Banks for ideas to stimulate the independent retailer market in the United Kingdom. The small independent shop was being drowned out by the high street and needed a morale boost. Jeff Banks’ idea was to create a showcase award scheme that would recognise the best in British retailing. The Drapers’ awards were born. Three decades on it has become one of the most prestigious events in the retail calendar.
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Draper’s Fashion Awards 2011
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HQ Design 1989
In 1989 after having sold his interest in Warehouse Jeff Banks started a fashion design studio in partnership with Richard Carnill. The first design brief HQ Design received was to create the Thomas Burberry Collection for Burberry’s. HQ Design has since progressed into being a design company mainly responsible for designing and licensing products designed and manufactured under various Jeff Banks brands in the United Kingdom, Japan and Australia. HQ Design now occupies premises in Soho housing a team of designers and marketing experts carrying out all aspects of design for fashion companies including design art directional photography, television commercial production and trend forecasting.
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Jeff Banks womens Stvdio Collection, 2000
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Licences Include: BMB Menswear Womenswear Sainsbury PLC Menswear Womenswear Osan Ltd Men’s Underwear Men’s Hosiery Women’s Hosiery Debenhams Menswear Womenswear Lingerie Swimwear Home wear Shoes International/ Watches Watch Co Women’s Jewellery Men’s Jewellery Debenhams
In 2000 Jeff Banks became an international designer for Debenhams creating ranges for the following.
Jeff Banks Stvdio Jeff Banks Intimates Jeff Banks Beach Jeff Banks Real Jeff Banks Home Jeff Banks Shoes Hankyu Department Menswear stores(Japan) Men’s gifts Menswear Luggage Men’s Knitwear Myer Group Men’s Suits (Australia) Men’s Shirts Men’s Ties and Cufflinks Men’s shoes Woodstock Ltd Men’s Ties and Cufflinks Men’s Leather goods Men’s accessories
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Norville Group Ltd
Men’s and women’s optical eyewear Men’s and women’s sunglasses
Matalan plc
Menswear (Jeff & Co) Womenswear (Jeff & CO)
Incorporatewear
Corporate Clothing design
Nick Moran wears Jeff Banks Stvdio Collection Autumn, 2005
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The Royal Society of Arts 1990
The RSA medal awards scheme has been one of the cornerstones of furthering the creative arts in Great Britain. Students across various disciplines submit their portfolios each year to be judged for some of the prized medals to be won. Each category fashion architecture graphics and many more have their illustrious panel of judges to review their work. Each panel has a chairman who is renowned in their respective field to oversee the process. Between 1990 and 2000 Jeff Banks was chairman of the fashion RSA board.
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Graduate Fashion Week 1990
In 1990 Jeff Banks received a letter from Roy Peach who then was head of Department for Fashion at Brighton School of Art bemoaning the fact that out of London students did not get the same opportunity to show in the capital as did the London colleges.
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Jeff persuaded Smirnoff to move
to ensure the continued life of
Week and have gone on to national
their event to The Business
the event. The venue has varied
and international success.
Design Centre in Islington and to
its location from The Business
In 1998 Jeff Banks combined with
pay for the facility that was built
Design Centre to the Festival Hall
the British Council to take the Gala
to remain in position so that it
at the South Bank, The London
show abroad to show in various
could be used by universities to
Eye Site Planet 2000 in Liverpool
countries
bring their students to London to
Street and latterly in Battersea Park.
Columbia and China. Promoting
show their collections and gain
It not only comprises some twenty
not only the excellence of British
jobs or funding for their business
one fashion shows during the
designers but also the excellence
enterprises.
week but also a vast exhibition of
of British Design Education. This
Jeff with the help of John Woolford
student work. The week culminates
has not only increased the flow
and Vanessa Denza formed a
with a Gala Evening for International
of foreign students into Britain
charity called Graduate Fashion
Industry luminaries to see the work
but also franchise arrangements
Week to facilitate the event on an
of students and the presentation
being made by British Universities
annual basis. Jeff Banks has now
of various awards including The
in foreign territories. As a result
been the Chairman of Graduate
Student of the Year award.
of his television programme The
Fashion Week for fifteen years.
Such prestigious designers as
Clothes Show the finals were aired
During this time he has raised
Chris Bailey, Stella McCartney and
annually on television for the first
some half million pound each
Hussein Chalayan have had their
ten years.
year from a variety of sponsors
first showing at Graduate Fashion
including
Russia,
Cover of Graduate Fashion Week newspaper, 1990
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Prima Retailer of the Year 1991
In 1991 Jeff Banks was approached by the editor of Prima magazine to create an awards scheme for the mass high street retailer. Nothing like it existed except for the British Fashion Awards. Jeff mailed the industry and along with the editorial board of Prima judged the criteria. The presentations were held at a low key event at the Atlantic Bar at the back of Picadilly with about 50 people in attendance. Now, 21 years on the event is held in a massive marquee in Battersea Park with over 600 members of the trade attending as well as 600 readers of Prima magazine.
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Jeff Banks with the editor of Prima magazine, Moira Fahey, presenting the 2011 Prima Awards.
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Chartered Society of Designers Awards 1994
After raising substantial sponsorship from Cushman Wakefield the Retail Estate Agents Jeff Banks created the CSD Awards Medal for Fashion. This is a competition entered annually by some 500 fashion students with a first prize of £10,000 to the winner as well as a substantial donation to their respective University. The finals are held each year at a prestigious Fashion Show at the Covent Garden Opera House Atrium showcasing the work of fashion students. The CSD Awards have become a major fashion competition in the student calendar.
The Minerva Medal Each year The CSD awards their Minerva Design medal for worldwide contribution to design. Previous winners have included:
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Milner Gray – Design – U.K
Alberto Alessi – Product Design – Italy
Misha Black – Designer Festival of Britain 1951 – U.K
Milton Glaser – Architecture – U.S.A
Sir Terence Conran – Product Design – U.K
Achille Castaglioni – Furniture – Italy
Mary Quant – Fashion Design – U.K
HRH Duke of Edinburgh – U.K
Charles Eames – Furniture Design – U.S.A
Lord Foster – Architecture – U.K
Jeff Banks was awarded The Minerva
Saul Bass – Product Design – U.S.A
Medal in 1994 for fashion Design.
The Duke of Edinburgh presents Jeff Banks with his Minerva Medal for services to Design, 1994
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Ports of Call 1994
The Ports of Call Home collection is based on the various visits made by Jeff Banks during his career. Initially it was all location based with cities and regions providing the inspiration. Latterly the inspiration has come more from visits of imagination. Not quite time travel but close. All of the origination and theming is created personally by Jeff with much of his illustrative work being created in his home design studio. The collection spans a wide range of home products including wallpaper, paint, bedlinen, carpets and rugs, as well as ceramics.
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Ports of Call Lighting Collection by Jeff Banks, 2005
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Incorporatewear 1996
After having been asked to create corporate design wear for many organisations Jeff Banks created his own corporate clothing company in 1996. Incorporatewear is now the third largest company in the United Kingdom producing corporate clothing. The company produces a wide range of clothing for various types of companies. Jeff Banks has been responsible for designing clothing for everybody from Barclays Bank to Butlins Red coats to British Airport Authorities. Some of the company uniforms designed by Jeff Banks: Barclays Bank plc My Travel
Nationwide Building Society
B.A.A Abbey National
Swinton Building Society
Bradford & Bingley Building Society
John Lewis Thompson Holidays Woolworths Stagecoach Boots Incorporatewear have won many designers awards as a result of Jeff Banks designs, including: Designer of the year
Best Financial Design of the year
Incorporatewear now employs over 100 people in a purpose built location in Coleshill, Birmingham and is credited with ISO 2000 as a standard of manufacturing excellence.
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Incorporatewear shoot for Barclays Bank, 2011
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The Style Challenge 1997
In 1997 in conjunction with BBC Pebble Mill in Birmingham Jeff Banks created a new television show with a studio audience where two teams of hairdressers and make up artists were pitted against one another to make over members of the public. The contestants were not allowed sight of themselves until reaching the end of the catwalk and facing the ‘revolving’ mirrors that revealed all. This programme went on to make household names of hairdressers such as Nicky Clarke, John Frieda, Trevor Sorbie, Anthony Mascolo and Charles Worthington and make up artists such as Barbara Daly, Charlie Greene and Maggie Hunt. Jeff presented over 120 shows two mornings a week for over a year. He withdrew from the show due to work commitments in design but the show went on to run for 1200 episodes.
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The Princes Trust 1998
As a result of the association with The Princes Trust and Clothes Show Live His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales asked Jeff Banks if he could open a showcase shop to sell the work of businesses that had received start up funds from the Princes Trust. Jeff Banks persuaded John Hoerner the then chief Executive of The Arcadia Group to donate a shop free of charge for two years to facilitate such a request. Arcadia made available a shop in Kings Road free of rent and rates. Jeff Banks created a shop called Trust and designed the shop and packaging which was opened by HRH the Prince of Wales in 1998. All shop fitting and lighting was provided free of charge by various companies that were persuaded by Jeff Banks to become involved.
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Jeff & Co 2000
In July 2000 Sir Peter Davies invited Jeff Banks, the then C.E.O of Sainsburys PLC, to create a wide range of men’s & women’s clothing for retailing in their supermarket stores. The concept was for Jeff & Co shops (the brand devised by Jeff Banks) to be presented in 6000 Square feet, trading spaces in twenty stores initially and then rolled out across The Trading Estate. The Jeff Banks concept was to create a series of sub brands to give segmentation to the product and create a mini department store feel. The product and retail management were carried out by BMB in Leeds with Jeff Banks providing Design and Marketing. The number of outlets rose over 18 months to 100 outlets. Sainsburys decided in 2004 to create their own Brand and Design and gave notice in 2004. The Jeff & Co Brand is now part of the Matalan portfolio.
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Jeff & Co lingerie for Sainsbury’s, 2000
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Jeff & Co swimwear, summer 1993
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jeff banks home 2000
Jeff Banks Home is a collection of Homeware that draws on not only decades of design experience but also a feel for contemporary British design. The ranges draw on a knowledge of the history of the 20th Century Arts & Crafts movement but with a use of modern technological developments in the manufacturing process. It is one man’s view on modern British Home living. Eclectic decorative attitude but at the same time modern. It is designed to fit into a well furnished country house or a contemporary city loft. All of the fabrications and techniques used in the creation of the collection are unique to the Jeff Banks range.
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Jeff Banks Home Collection
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hankyu 2000
In 2000 Jeff began a broad association with Hankyu department stores of Japan to market the Jeff Banks brand in Japan. This has involved Hankyu establishing a cluster of sub licences that produce Jeff’s designs in Japan that are sold through Hankyu and other department stores as well as many independent retailers in Japan. Licences include:
Men’s suits
Men’s Shirts Men’s Knitwear Men’s Leather Goods Men’s luggage
Men’s ties and scarves
Expansion of concessions in Japan Hankyu department stores by 2007 had begun to expand the Jeff Banks presence in Japan. A fine collection of menswear including suits, ties, shirts, small leather goods, luggage, underwear, hats and even umbrellas have their feet in the Japanese market.
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jeff banks womenswear 2002
Having sold Warehouse in 1987, Jeff Banks concentrated his efforts into building a menswear brand from 1988 onwards upon the invitation of Debenhams. He returned to designing womenswear in 2002. The collection was based around Theodora Richards, daughter of Rolling Stone Keith Richards, as his muse. A highly intelligent, fun loving young lady with a love of Rock & Roll as her heritage. The collection continued to appear in Debenhams for four years, with pieces that were intended for life on the road in the day and a hectic party schedule at night.
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Theodora Richards wears Jeff Banks, summer 1993
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Jeff Banks lingerie collection, Spring 2003
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Jeff Banks womenswear, Autumn 2003
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Jeff Banks womenswear, Autumn 2003
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Jeff Banks womenswear, Autumn 2003
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Jeff Banks womenswear, Autumn 2003
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Chartered Society Of Designers 2002
The Chartered Society is the only body representing designers which holds a Royal Charter. Jeff Banks has been a fellow of the society since 1978. In 2002 he was elected President for a two year period. He inherited an organisation which was in debt to the tune of ÂŁ1 million and with a failing membership. In two years he turned the society around moving it financially into the black and putting it onto stable financial footing. In addition he re-instigated national assessments for membership and re-established it as ‘the voice’ of designers in the United Kingdom. In 2003 Jeff Banks reinstated the Milner Gray Lectures with a lecture by Ian Cullum Chief designer of Jaguar.
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Jeff Banks with John Strachan C.E.O of Cushman & Wakefield presenting the CSD Awards
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JEFF BANKS BESPOKE 2003
In 2003 Jeff Banks created a collection of made to measure mens tailoring. Jeff Banks Bespoke gentleman’s suits are of the highest quality. The designs draw from years of Jeff Banks’ experience in cutting and tailoring. The fabrics are individually designed and coloured by Jeff. The madeto-measure Bespoke collection is currently sold in 39 departments of Debenhams. In 2008 Jeff Banks expanded the already successful Bespoke range to embrace visiting tailors. They would attend clients at their home or office. The collection expanded with a range of top end British fabrics as a designers choice. To complement the collection he also added a range of made to measure shirts.
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update copy
Model Tom Pricone wears Jeff Banks Bespoke, 2012
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London 2012 Olympic Bid 2005
Jeff Banks was chosen from an eminent list of British designers to design the clothing that 130 members of the Olympic bid team would wear in Singapore to help secure the bid for London. This involved making made to measure clothing for all members of the bid team. These included Lord Coe, Sir Steve Redgrave, HRH Princess Anne, Cherie Blaire, David Beckham, Denise Lewis, and The Mayor Ken Livingstone. The bid was successful and the celebrations of the London team in their beige wool and linen suits with mid blue shirts and striped ties and scarves became engaged in the public consciousness. Each of the entrants had a nationally eminent designer produce their wardrobe. The Singapore Times in a double page spread the day after awarded London five gold medals for style with France getting four and New York coming in last with one.
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JEFF & MAGGIE MAKE UP COLLECTION 2005
After many years of collaborating with Maggie Hunt on fashion shoots and shows Jeff & Maggie decided there was the opportunity to create a range of make up based on their years of experience. Foundations, mascaras, eyeliners, nail polishes and varnishes were all part of the collection. Maggie’s knowledge of the best choice of colourations and textures for all sign types. Maggie has previously been retained by Shu Uemura of Japan as a technical adviser brought an even wider expanse of knowledge.
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Jeff & Maggie launch campaign
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Matalan Plc 2005
In September 2005 Jeff was invited to redesign the visual communication policy of Matalan PLC. Jeff Banks redesigned the company logo, advertising policy, photography for point of sale, sales, brochures and mailers.In addition Jeff also advised on the re-introduction of staff conferences, fascia design and public relations policy. The document Jeff Banks created for “The Way Forward� has become the route map for the revitalisation of the company.
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Jeff Banks smart casual range at Debenhams 2006
2006 saw the opening of 130 departments in Debenhams stores. The collection came as a result of the changing face of mens fashion and a growing demand for a smart casual wardrobe. Clothes of a high quality and a style that was right for a sharp social calendar and a more relaxed style of entertainment. What do you wear for a concert, gastro pub night out or a dinner with friends was the demand. All of this and more was taken into account to produce a range of high quality menswear with the usual Jeff Banks attention to fit and detail.
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launch of jeff banks shops 2006
Jeff Banks shops were clean and clear cut. Bringing together the best of Jeff Banks in one place. The ethos of the Banks style is to create a look of style, quality and fit, all at an affordable price. Jeff calls this design engineering where you look at every detail to decide if it is contributing to the overall desired effect of the finished product. In Jeff Banks retails shops all of this comes together to provide a sharp clear shopping experience of design and quality that is not going to break the bank.
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Jeff Banks retail concept
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FA CUP FINAL MILLWALL 2006
The Jeff Banks team descended on the Old Kent Road to measure individually all the players, some of whom had never previously owned a suit. Not only did Jeff design a sharp grey suit with pale blue shirt and club tie for the occasion but endowed the lining with something memorable special. The inside lining of the jackets incorporated the club colours but also a heavily embroidered team crest. Something the players could be proud of for the rest of their lives. Millwall lost the final 1-0 to Manchester United... but won on style.
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Tour de france 2007
In the world of cycling, the Tour de France is the highlight of the sporting calendar. To host the departure of the event is something quite special, especially on foreign soil. The ‘London’ style brought something of Britain to this very French event. In the cycling calendar “The Grand Depart” is a much honoured event. Mayor Ken Livingstone invited Jeff Banks to design the clothes for all the officials at this auspicious event. Since that time British cycling has gone on to enjoy huge international success.
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Tour de France Grand Depart committee uniform
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AUSTRALIA 2007
2007 saw the launch of Jeff Banks concessions in Australia. A co-operation with global accessory distributors Ransil and the Myer Group has seen a triumvirate partnership explode onto the Australian market. The collection is due to expand for formal suits, shirts and ties. Plans are well ahead for this moving onto a smart casual range, due to launch in 2009.
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Melbourne 2007
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Jeff Banks Jeans launch 2007
For years Jeff eschewed creating a denim collection. It was a psychological barrier as for years he had seen his father, a sheet metal worker, toiling in the obligatory work denims and had avoided this area that brought back tough memories. He also wanted to create something of fit, style and quality that have always been his stock in trade. In 2007 he re looked at his already successful range, redefining it from top to bottom with new fits, technologically advanced fabrics, and a whole new range of denim washes brought about by advances in laundering technology. In a new departure he added lycra to some of the denim qualities. This was a new departure as a lot of denim traditionalists had avoided the development of their female counterparts. It has proved a huge success, bringing a new area of fit and comfort to the denim wearer.
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the drapers interview 2007
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portsmouth fc fa cup final 2008
Portsmouth Football Club make it to the cup final for the first time in 49 years. Under the guidance of Harry Redknapp, Portsmouth Football Club unbelievably found themselves at the Cup Final. They simply could not believe their luck. Harry called Jeff and asked if he could produce the same magic as he had done for Millwall two years before. Again the Jeff Banks Bespoke team swung into action. Harry appointed Sol Campbell as design co-ordinator for the project to make sure the players felt comfortable for their Cup Final debut. Sol went for a chalk stripe business like suit with a pale blue lining. We’re going to the Final to do business was his phrase. Fifty two team members, management and training staff were all individually measured and hand made suits were made for all including the bus driver. Jeff and his team were on hand at the hotel the morning of the Final, to get them dressed and ready. Making sure their tie knots and buttonhole carnations were perfectly positioned. All came together on the day…… They won!
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cbe awarded 2009
In 2009 Jeff Banks is made a Commander of the British Empire for services to fashion and charity. After forty five years in the fashion industry Jeff was finally acknowledged for his work. As usual a brief letter from Buckingham Palace enquired whether or not the recipient was willing to accept the honour. At a ceremony in July at Buckingham Palace the award was finally made by HRH Prince Charles. This seemed fitting to Jeff as he had worked closely for The Prince’s Trust for twenty five years as an ambassador.
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Jeff Banks receiving a CBE in 2009
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store openings in china 2009
After three years of planning the first Jeff Banks shop opens in Beijing. It took almost three years of planning and market research to create the joint venture in China that culminated in the opening of the first Jeff Banks shop. The research showed that the young Chinese consumer was seeking luxury combined with a spirit of Britishness. Jeff Banks, with his joint venture partners, then set up a design studio in Beijing to create a collection that is in the Jeff Banks spirit, but targeted more at the luxury end of the market, designed and coloured to fit a Chinese consumer. The next step was to find the right locations for the first shop in one of the several luxury shopping malls that exist in Beijing. In time Lotte was chosen for the first location, which opened on the 28th September 2010. The British Ambassador Sebastian Wood did the honours and cut the ribbon while Chinese music artists and TV stars showed the collection.
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the princes trust people’s catwalk 2011
A catwalk show at the Trafford Centre raises money for The Prince’s Trust. It was a simple idea to raise money for charity and satisfy the desire of huge numbers of the public to take to the catwalk. In the autumn of 2010 Jeff persuaded the management of the Trafford Centre to leave the catwalk they build every season for a further week so that any visitor to the centre could show off their outfits on the big stage. Thousands of people took to the catwalk paying £10 a time, with all the proceeds going to The Prince’s Trust. The next year, 2011, Jeff repeated the exercise again with the Christie Hospital Cancer Unit in Manchester being the beneficiary.
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fashion on the field launch 2011
Fashion at the races go hand in hand, but 2011 saw them formally presented. For many years Jeff Banks has presented Fashion on the Field at the Melbourne Cup in Australia. This is an event that has been run for the last fifty years. Members of the race-going community, both men and women across the country, take to the catwalk to show off their outfits. There are six regional heats, who all come together in Melbourne to judge a national winner. Jeff, prompted by milliner Yvette Jelfs, decided that it was right that a similar event was held in Britain. In conjunction with the Jockey Club and York Races, Fashion on the Field was launched at the Ebor meeting in August 2011. It was deemed a huge success with the winner Victoria Bailey receiving a holiday for two in St Vincent, a pair of Jimmy Choo couture shoes, which proved to be the last pair he would make before retirement, a London photoshoot and a clutch full of Debenhams vouchers. Many more events are to follow.
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green edge cycling team 2012
The Australian pro cycling team get the Jeff Banks treatment. In January 2012 Australian entrepreneur Gerry Ryan launched the first UCI approved international Australian cycling team. It was the brain child of Australia’s team manager Shayne Bannan. The team comprised of some of Australia’s iconic professional cyclists. World champions, Tour de France green jersey winners, stage winners from the Tour de France, Tour of Italy and the Tour of Spain as well as some winners from Europe’s biggest classic road races. The brief was to create a team look for official events when the team had to appear booted and suited. The Jeff Banks V.I.P. Bespoke team were despatched to the team headquarters in Varese in Italy and were allowed to choose their own individual styling based around one fabric. By January 2012 every team member had their own personal suit, shirt, shoes and the set all made to measure.
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Green Edge Cycling Team clothed by Jeff Banks, 2012
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FRONT ROW: Robbie McEwen – 3 times Tour de France green jersey winner (2011), Sebastian Langeveld – 1st Tirreno-Adriatico, Stage 1 (2012), Michael Albasini, - 1st Volta a Catalunya, Overall (2012), Simon Gerrans – Australian National Champion (2012), Winner Milan – St Remo, Simon Clarke – 1st Vuelta a Espana, King of the Mountains, Alan Davis – 1st Commonwealth Games, Road Race (2010)
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MIDDLE ROW: Stuart O’Grady – 1st Paris Roubaix, Leigh Howard – 1st Berlin Six Day (2012), Baden Cooke – 2nd Tour of Oman, Stage 2: Sur – Wadi Dayqah Dam (2012), Matt Goss – 1st Milan – St Remo, Matthew Wilson – 1st King of the Mountains Tour of Ireland (2009)
BACK ROW: Mitch Docker – 1st Route de Sude, Stage 3 (2010), Michael Hepburn – 1st Track World Championships, Team Pursuit (2010, 2011), Luke Durbridge – 1st Australian National Time Trial Championships (2012), Brett Lancaster – 1st Tour of California, Stage 2 (2009), Fumy Beppu – 1st Eneco Tour, Stage 2, Cameron Meyer – 1st Track World Championships, Points Race (2012), Jack Bobridge – 1st London World Cup, Team Pursuit (2012)
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ICW TAILORED BY JEFF BANKS LAUNCH 2012
A well tailored wardrobe for small companies that are looking for uniformity. For many years through his own company, Incorporatewear, Jeff Banks has been providing some of the world’s leading blue chip companies with design and clothing to enhance their corporate image. Along the way many smaller companies have requested this feel and quality but their size made it difficult to accommodate. To satisfy this need Jeff created his own ICW collection. A small number of styles made to a very high standard and constantly available. It is marketed to small financial institutions, law firms, motor dealerships and health trusts. It enables the teams working in these organisations to adopt a dress code that is equally professional to their larger companies.
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ICW tailored by Jeff Banks collection, 2012
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Benchgrade shoe Launch 2012
A new collection of high end shoes, handmade in Italy. A benchgrade shoe involves over two hundred careful processes to make a single pair. In 2012 Jeff Banks created a set of lasts in Italy to create a collection of shoes with maximum comfort and retaining his own unique style. The response of the European leathers is critical to the finished product and only the finest hides are used. The result is a refined modern shoe collection with it’s own unique handmade feel.
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Jeff banks 24:7 2012
24:7 is the he concept of a round the clock wardrobe for Matalan. In this inexpensive wardrobe the same Jeff Banks care and attention has been applied to choice of fabrics, fit and design. 24:7 as it’s name implies is a round the clock wardrobe that works as well at the office or in the pub after hours. Attention is paid to all the style indicators both in colour and style. The price is truly astounding and has quickly struck a chord with the consumer.
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suit collection launch in australia 2012
Jeff Banks has already a considerable following in Australia through his relationship with the Salco Group and Myer stores that began in 2007. This has led to a broadening of the shirt, tie and accessory range into a full suit offer. The collection consists of three fit shapes, Classic, Stvdio and Modern. Each targeted at a different profile of customer. Apart from the Travel suits all the fabrics are 100% pure merino wool and are very lightweight as are all the interlinings. The Travel suits are a composition of wool and polyester with an element of lycra included as well as a special nano-technology that resists creasing and spills. This is a collection designed and specifically made for the heat of the Australian market.
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china 2012
Since the launch of the first Jeff Banks launch in 2009 a further 10 shops have opened and the collection has begun to mature into a very definable look. The tailoring remains as sleek as ever with a particular accent on the new short modernist silhouette. The Jeff Banks shirt collection remains full of hidden design surprises that continue to delight the inquisitive customer. Trousers have taken on a life of their own with a plethora of imported interesting fabrics that accent against the unstructured blazers. Inventive outerwear accentuates the collection as design driven and innovative.
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debenhams 2012
The position of Designer at Debenhams has really come into focus during 2012. The smart casual area within the stores has expanded while broadening in the range of designs that it embraces. The launch of Jeff Banks White is a huge success with all eight collar shapes performing well, proving that this is appealing to a wide and eclectic audience. The denim collection increased as well and now begins to embrace colour as well as enhanced details and an upgrade in quality. Christmas 2012 saw the launch of a whole programme of dress shirts and waistcoats with all the attendant accessories. February 2013 heralded the launch of the single biggest men’s watch launch that Debenhams have ever undertaken. Jeff created six body shapes that required all new tooling, along with all the integrated watch straps that go with them. This fundamental piece of design has then been further enhanced with new face dial design and colorations. A momentous year!
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japan 2012
2012 saw the opening of the first full blown Jeff Banks shop in the new menswear store at Hankyu in Osaka. A new black and silver contemporary shopfit has embraced everything that encompasses the Jeff Banks brand. Suits, rainwear, shirts, ties, hats and small leather goods. Finally the Japanese customer can begin to embrace the complete lifestyle look in one location, which will begin to enforce the brand as it is established in other locations.
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retail 2012
Jeff Banks shops have now increased to twenty, stretching the length and breadth of the United Kingdom. The range has expanded significantly with the smart casual aspect and denim making up more than 40% of the mix. The retail shops also launched shoes for the first time and Jeff continued to make personal appearances and gentlemen’s make over sessions at all the stores.
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belize olympic team uniforms 2012
The smallest country at the Olympics gets the Jeff Banks look. After an approach from the Belize Olympic Ambassador Rt Hon Andy Wicmore, who is also a member of the OIC, Jeff agreed to create the clothes for the opening ceremony of the Olympics for Team Belize. Jeff took the Great Gatsby as a theme and created thirties style blazers for both men and women in the country’s national colours. The men wore white flannel trousers while the women wore either white flannel skirts or trousers. A stripe team shirt with white collars perfectly set off the specially created stripe silk ties and scarves. Milliner Yvette Jelfs worked with Jeff to create stunning headwear. Fine panama hats for the men and panama cloches for the ladies. General reviews were smallest country at the Olympics but best turned out.
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Jeff Banks designs Olympic opening ceremony clothes for Belize
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launch sponsorship catford cc equipe junior race team 2012
In December 2012 Jeff Banks agreed the launch of sponsorship of the Catford Cycling Club Junior racing team. The launch was attended by Sean Yates, stage winner of the Tour de France and Race Director of the Sky race team who successfully guided Bradley Wiggins to his win of the Tour de France. Jeff Banks also designed exclusive racing kit for the team, which is only worn by race members accepted on to the team and entitled to wear team colours.
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launch of jeff banks pink pants 2012
In December Jeff launched an initiative along with Debenhams to raise money for various Breast Cancer charities. Jeff Banks Pink Pants will be sold in 140 Debenhams stores and all profits donated to charity. Men across Britain were invited to ‘sport their support’ by wearing pink pants. Their loved ones sent in pictures and the ten best were invited on to the catwalk at the Prima Awards. The best pink pants sport won a trip to the Caribbean.
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Jeff banks e-commerce website launch 2012
Towards the end of 2012 Jeff Banks’ e-commerce website was developed and went live in time for Christmas 2012. Following the success and interest in Jeff’s previous showcase website, customers were demanding to be able to shop online to secure their favourite Jeff Banks items with greater ease. Jeff responded, “I wanted to wait until the time and technology was right for a seamless shopping experience that works across a multitude of platforms, from the Ipad to the Iphone to the desktop computer. Now it’s here, and I’m very excited to present you with my latest collection.” The full Jeff Banks range is now available to buy online, from suits and formal wear to casual wear and accessories.
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Jeff Banks e-commerce site viewed on the Ipad and desktop computer
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Education Jeff Banks first became involved in fashion education when he was asked to become an eternal examiner at the John Moores University in Liverpool.
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Jean Muir was the visiting lecturer
The CNAA. This involved the
Fashion in Shanghai.
and this began a lifelong friendship
review of Colleges and Universities
As a result of this involvement Jeff
with Jean. Between them they not
and
Arts
now holds a cluster of Honorary
only taught and examined but
programmes ensuring the quality
Doctorates, Honorary Degrees
also at their own expense brought
of courses and teaching as well
and Fellowships of most of these
Liverpool students to show their
as the maintenance of national
prestigious Universities and Art
collections to London to expose
standards. The CNAA sadly no
Schools.
them to a much wider international
longer exists and therefore an
In recognition of his work for
market and up coming students
independent overview of course
education Jeff Banks was awarded
that were looking to achieve
standards has lapsed.
the
employment in London.
Apart from CNAA assessments,
Education in Art and Design annual
Jeff Banks went on to become
Jeff Banks was also a visiting
medal for distinguished services to
an external examiner at Brighton
lecturer at Central St Martins
art and design education in 1990.
University, University of Central
Harrow School of Art, Middlesex
The CHEAD medal is the highest
Lancashire, Central St Martins,
Polytechnic
award that can be given by the
Harrow
University),
their
Batchelor
(now
of
Middlesex
Conference
for
Higher
of
collective of all Universities and
Westminster University). University
Northumbria, Kingston Polytechnic
is only awarded to one individual
of Northumbria, Royal College of
(now
each year.
Art and Surrey Institute. In 1978
Croydon Art School, Bournemouth
Jeff was elected to become a
School of Art, London College of
Council member of The Council
Fashion, Swire School of Fashion
for National Academic Awards,
in Hong Kong, La Salle School of
School
of
Art
(now
University
Kingston
University),
Education History 1971 –
75
External examiner Fashion, John Moores University, Liverpool
1974 –
79
External examiner Fashion, Brighton University
1979 –
84
External examiner Fashion, University of Central Lancashire
1983 –
87
External examiner Fashion, Central St Martins School of Art
1984 –
88
External examiner Fashion, Harrow School of Art
1986 –
90
External examiner Fashion, University of Northumbria
1990 –
94
External examiner Surface Decoration, Royal College of Art
2000 –
05
External examiner, Fashion Communications – Surrey Institute
Visiting Lecturer -Central St. Martins School of Art
-Croydon Art School
-Harrow School of Art
-Bournemouth School of Art
-Middlesex Polytechnic
-London College of Fashion
-University of Northumbria
-Swire School of Fashion Hong Kong
Kingston Polytechnic
-Manchester University
Awards and Degrees Honorary Degree Newcastle and Cumbria
Honorary Degree College of Wales,
University
Newport
Honorary Degree Lancashire University
1980 Designer of the year
Honorary Degree University East London
1982 Designer of the year
Honorary Degree University Westminster
1981 Coat Designer of the year
Doctor of Letters (Arts) University of
1984 Retailer of the year
Westminster
1991 Men’s journalist of the year
1990 C.H.E.A.D. Medal for services to
Fellow of the Kent Institute of Art & Design
Higher Education
Honorary doctor of letters (Design),
1994 Minerva Medal for Design
Middlesex University
Doctor of Design Nottingham and Trent University Chairs 1992 – 2001
Chairman of RSA Fashion Medal Award
1990 – 2001
Chairman of Graduate Fashion Week
2001 – 2003 President of Chartered Society of Designers
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Jeff Banks during one of his many sponsored bike rides
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Charities Jeff Banks works for several charities carrying out a variety of different functions. British Heart Foundation Sponsored Cycle Rides
Lands End to John O’Groats
875 miles
London to Lake Como 1000 miles Lecci to Venice (Italy) 1080 miles
La Diagonale – Brest-Mention (France) 1000 miles
Sport Relief (BBC) Sponsored Cycle Ride
Lands End to John O’Groats in six days 875 miles
Macmillan Nurses
Hosting Fashion Shows
Retail Trust Annual Auctions NSPCC
Bi - Annual Auctions
Graduate Fashion Week
President and Fundraiser
The Princes Trust
Ambassador & Chairman of Retail Group
Christies Hospital
Fundraising Activities
Children with Cancer
Annual Auctions
The Diana Louise Trust
Sponsored bike ride - John O’Groats to Land’s End
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Jeff Banks enters the highlands en route in Land’s End to John O‘Groats in 2007
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Left: Jeff Banks and Hilton Green complete Land’s End to John O‘Groats in 2007
Above: Jeff Banks during The Giro Ride - Lecci to Venice 1080 miles in 2006
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bibliography 1964 Created Clobber 1966 Clobber opens first shop in shop Newcastle Fenwicks 1969 Opens Jeff Banks company
First UK exhibitor in Paris Pret. A Porter
Council Member Association of Fashion Designers.
1970 Created British Fashion Council
Opening Jeff Banks showrooms New York
Opened seven international agencies.
1976 Rembrandt Ltd amalgamation to enlarge Jeff Banks 1976 Opened first branch of Warehouse Duke Street London 1980 British Designer of the Year 1981 British Coat designer of the Year 1982 British Designer of the Year
Presenter BBC Pebble Mill at One
Warehouse opens 10th store
Ceases trading Jeff Banks label
1984 Awarded British retailer of the year 1985 Launch Bymail catalogues 1986 Launch BBC Clothes Show
Launch Smirnoff student awards
1988 Launch Clothes Show ‘Live’
Created DR Independent Retailer of the Year
1989 Nine Warehouse men’s branches open
Launches HQ design
1990 Launch Graduate Fashion Week
Costume of the year – Bath Museum of Costume
1991 Created National Designer at Debenhams 1991 Created Prima Retailer of the Year 1991 Mens journalist of the Year 1992 Doctor of Letters at the University of Westminster 1994 Launches Ports of Call Home collection 1994 Launches Jeff Banks Black Label Menswear
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Jeff Banks Stvdio Menswear Label
CSD Minerva medal winner
1995 Doctor of Design at Nottingham Trent University 1995 Royal Society of Arts Award 1995 Launch Clothes Show live Glasgow 1996 Opening Incorporatewear Ltd
Clothes Show Expo Hong Kong
1997 Created new TV show ‘The Style Challenge’ 1998 Opened Prince’s Trust showcase shop on King’s Road 2000 International Designer at Debenhams 2000 Launch Jeff Banks – Bespoke Tailoring Collection 2000 Launch Jeff & Co at Sainsbury’s 2000 Fellowship of the University of Wales 2002 President of Chartered Society of Designers 2003 Open 11 Jeff Banks concessions with Hankyu Department Stores Japan 2005 Jeff Banks designs clothes for London 2012 Olympic winning bid 2005 Launch Jeff & Maggie make up collection 2005 Launch of Jeff & Co Men’s Matalan 2006 Millwall Football Club Cup Final clothing 2006 Launch of Jeff & Co Women’s Matalan 2006 Bespoke Collection Launch 2006 Formal Hire Collection Launch 2006 Launch of Jeff Banks Retail Shops
2006 Launch of Jeff Banks Smart Casual range in Debenhams 2007 Opening of concessions in Australia 2007 Expansion of concession in Japan 2007 Tour de France Grand Depart collection 2007 Launch of Jeff Banks Jeans 2007 Drapers Lifetime Achievement Award 2008 Bespoke Collection expands to include visiting tailors 2008 Portsmouth FC clothed for the FA Cup Final 2009 CBE awarded to Jeff Banks 2009 Nominated for the Prince Philip Designer prize 2010 Portsmouth FC clothed for the FA Cup Final 2010 First shop in China opened (Beijing) 2011 The Princes Trust People’s Catwalk event 2011 Fashion on the Field launch 2012 Green Edge Cycling Team clothed for the official launch 2012 ICW Tailored by Jeff Banks launch 2012 Benchgrade shoe launch 2012 Jeff Banks designs Olympic opening ceremony clothes for Belize
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Jeff Banks completes the Amstel Gold Etape 150km in April 2012
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www.jeffbanks.co.uk
Jeff Banks 21 D’Arblay Street, London W1F 8EF Telephone: +(44) (0)20 7287 1142 Fax: +(44) (0)20 7287 9677 Email: info@jeffbanks.co.uk www.jeffbanks.co.uk