Meanwhile in London Pt. 1: Five Highlights from Our Buyers’ Trip

London has long been a meeting place for tradition and innovation. From the historic streets of Mayfair to some of the city’s most interesting menswear destinations, our latest buying trip offered plenty of inspiration.

Along the way, we revisited familiar favourites, discovered new interpretations of classic pieces and selected a few personal highlights worth sharing.

Bennett Winch – A Clever Take on Travel

British accessories specialist Bennett Winch brings together understated design, thoughtful functionality and a strong appreciation for craftsmanship. Its bags are designed around the needs of modern travel, without compromising on appearance.

Our pick: The S.C Holdall

A particularly clever design that combines a classic weekend bag with a detachable suit carrier that wraps around it. A practical solution for travelling with both casual essentials and tailored clothing, without the need for a separate garment bag.

Drake’s – The Art of Effortless Layering

At Drake’s on Savile Row, classic British menswear takes on a more playful personality. Known for its ties and accessories, the brand has developed a distinctive approach to relaxed tailoring, mixing traditional influences with colour, texture and unexpected combinations.

Our picks: Colourful Layering and Modern Classics

A vibrant rugby shirt layered beneath a waxed jacket, paired with relaxed denim and carefully chosen accessories. It’s a reminder that dressing well doesn’t have to mean dressing formally. Sometimes, the most interesting combinations come from mixing pieces that weren’t necessarily designed to be worn together.

Barbour – Heritage with a Contemporary Twist

Few brands are as closely associated with British outerwear as Barbour. With its roots in functional clothing for the countryside, the brand continues to reinterpret its heritage through new silhouettes and collaborations.

Our picks: The Spey Jacket and Barbour x A.P.C.

The short, boxy Spey jacket is a favourite for its distinctive proportions and versatility in a modern wardrobe.

Equally interesting is the collaboration with French label A.P.C., where British heritage meets Parisian simplicity. Particularly noteworthy is the tartan shirt with subtle letter embroidery, giving a familiar pattern a more contemporary expression.

Crockett & Jones – British Shoemaking Since 1879

A cornerstone of British shoemaking, Crockett & Jones has been crafting footwear in Northampton for nearly 150 years, combining traditional craftsmanship with timeless design.

Our picks: The textured leather split-toe derby with a chunky rubber sole, alongside a selection of classic penny loafers that bridge the gap between formal and contemporary dressing.

Sunspel – The Art of British Essentials

Founded in 1860, Sunspel has spent over 160 years perfecting the everyday wardrobe, with a focus on exceptional fabrics, understated design and lasting quality.

Our picks: The knitted polo shirts and sweats in rich autumnal shades, from burgundy and chocolate brown to muted grey and navy. A reminder that the simplest pieces are often the hardest to get right.