Benson & Clegg

Jermyn Street, Since 1937.

Harry Benson and Thomas Clegg spent more than thirty years making their names at the Jermyn Street shirtmaker Hawes & Curtis before deciding, in September 1937, to open their own place around the corner on Bury Street. Benson was already responsible for the backless evening dress waistcoat, an innovation that outlived him and is still worn at formal occasions worldwide. Their idea was that bespoke tailoring ought to be approachable rather than intimidating, which was not at all the prevailing view at the time.

Dressing a king.

In 1944 they were granted a Royal Warrant by King George VI, and made a good deal of his formal wardrobe and much of his military uniform, including the naval jacket he wears in a great many of the photographs. A second warrant followed in 1992 from the then Prince of Wales.

The shop is still there.

Benson & Clegg moved to 9 Piccadilly Arcade in 1976 and have not moved since. Dark wood panelling, walls of ties, drawers of blazer buttons, and a tailoring lounge up the stairs at the back that is considerably more private members' club than tailor's shop.

Have a browse through men's accessories + grooming, the wider men's collection, or gifts for him. There are more brands made in Britain in our British brands.

Visit the Piccadilly Arcade Shop.

Benson & Clegg trade from 9 Piccadilly Arcade, Jermyn Street, London SW1Y 6NH, in a Grade II listed Edwardian arcade running between Piccadilly and Jermyn Street, with Beau Brummell in bronze standing at one end of it. For more brands you can see in person, have a browse of our UK shops and visit in person collections.