These British brands are flying the flag for homegrown fashion
Whether it’s a shoemaker lacing up quality sneakers, or an optics brand selling sunglasses that eclipse all others, here’s a trio of of favourite UK labels…
Words: Jonathan Wells
In the world of timeless, traditional fashion, Great Britain is the uncontested capital. From the Scottish Highlands, where woollens of the highest quality have been woven for centuries, to the well-heeled bootmaking bastion of Northampton, our country is a tapestry of garment-crafting excellence — stitched through with pockets of trim tailoring and seams of specialist skills.
But, whilst many of Britain’s most renowned labels have been dressing men for decades, some of our favourite brands here at Gentleman’s Journal are relatively new. Here, we’ve rounded up a trio of our most trusted clothesmakers — from a shoe brand lacing up quality sneakers to an optics brand that eclipses all others…
For elegant everyday essentials, try Aubin
Originally unveiled to acclaim in 2008, Aubin smartly launched into the menswear market as an elder sibling to preppy powerhouse Jack Wills. Two years ago, the brand returned — relaunching, rebranding and repositioning itself for a brand new generation of clothing connoisseurs.
The focus is twofold; fashion and sustainability, with eco-friendly production practices resonating through every stitch and seam of the brand’s core collection. Hero pieces in the modern Aubin range include the ‘Aldrige’ shirt, named for an industrial town in the West Midlands, the ‘Elsham’ strides, based on British military trousers, and the ‘Brockham’, a rugby shirt with the brand’s fox crest embroidered on its chest.
For a spring in your seasonal step, try Uniform Standard
Britain has a strong shoemaking heritage. Whether it be Crockett & Jones or Edward Green, Church’s or Cheaney, many of the world’s leading brogue and bootmakers have taken their first steps within our shores. Uniform Standard, a start-up based in East London, is a new breed of footwear brand — lacing up sophisticated, smart-casual sneakers for modern men.
The brand represents authentic, generational craftsmanship with a refreshingly modern mindset. And each of their pieces — there are eight ‘Series’ of shoes available, each in a whole host of different designs, colourways and materials — are created with a minimal British design aesthetic.
For a safe pair of frames, try Curry & Paxton
Though considered a quintessential British brand, Curry & Paxton has been seen through many lenses over the years; shape-shifting and turning its tints to many trends. Originally founded in 1876 under the named ‘Pickard & Curry’, George Paxton Snr joined the brand ten years later. And, by 1920, ‘Curry & Paxton Ltd’ was born. The following decades saw the frames adopted by all; with a Royal Warrant bestowed upon the brand in 1943, and many NHS contracts awarded to the company.
Today, the iconic eyewear brand is enjoying a new lease of life; representing British eyewear at its finest, iconic best. Inspired by the timeless style of past patrons (the ‘Yvan’ frames were made famous by Michael Caine), there’s something for everyone — whether you’re after the round, caramel-framed ‘Alex’ style or a pair of ‘Paul’ frames, oversized and brimming with old school appeal.
Want more styling tips? Here are 9 grooming must-haves that’ll take you from winter to spring…
Become a Gentleman’s Journal member. Find out more here.
Become a Gentleman’s Journal Member?
Like the Gentleman’s Journal? Why not join the Clubhouse, a special kind of private club where members receive offers and experiences from hand-picked, premium brands. You will also receive invites to exclusive events, the quarterly print magazine delivered directly to your door and your own membership card.
