Savile Row bespoke suit sales have soared in 2024, marking a significant recovery since the pandemic.
- Increased workplace attendance has driven demand for tailored work attire.
- Richard Anderson’s sales have surged, with bespoke suits becoming more popular than before.
- Huntsman & Sons report a 35% revenue increase compared to 2019, led by bespoke suit sales.
- A diverse clientele is contributing to the renewed interest in Savile Row tailoring.
Savile Row, a name synonymous with elegant tailoring, has witnessed a remarkable resurgence in bespoke suit sales this year, exceeding pre-pandemic levels. The shift comes as more individuals return to offices and formal gatherings. Retailers on this iconic London street have experienced a recovery as demand for finely tailored suits grows stronger.
Richard Anderson, an independent tailor operating from 13 Savile Row, reported a 12% increase in bespoke suit orders compared to last year. Anderson attributes this rise to the growing number of professionals resuming office work and investing in tailored outfits. His sales figures reveal that by September, 216 bespoke suits were sold, a notable jump from the 202 sold during the same period in 2023. The demand extends to women’s suits and made-to-measure options, highlighting a broadening interest in custom attire.
Anderson further noted an ‘unbelievable’ surge in ready-to-wear dinner suits, which he relates to the recent abundance of evening events following prolonged restrictions. While traditional suit fabrics remain popular, there is an emerging trend of balancing formality with casual elements, such as pairing suits with T-shirts.
Huntsman & Sons, located at 11 Savile Row, echoes this growth narrative, with bespoke suits accounting for 84% of their turnover. They reported a revenue increase of 35% relative to 2019 figures, and are on track to surpass last year’s bespoke sales with three months remaining. Managing Director Taj Phull observes that a majority of clients still prefer formal suits, with navy blue bespoke two-piece suits being particularly favored despite some shifts towards lighter fabrics like Seersucker.
Ties are also witnessing a sales surge, as Huntsman anticipates exceeding their previous year’s figures, with £50,000 worth of ties sold by September alone. Phull emphasizes the critical need for skilled craftspeople to handle this demand, which necessitates long-term investments in training apprentices.
At Anderson & Sheppard, located off Savile Row, owner Anda Rowland identifies an increase in diverse clientele interested in both traditional and modern styles. The typical bespoke suit here sells for approximately £6,500, although this can rise with premium materials such as cashmere or vicuña. Despite fluctuations in attire styles, the demand for quality Savile Row tailoring remains robust.
The revival of bespoke suit sales on Savile Row indicates a broader return to formal attire, driven by changing work environments and social dynamics.
