Jermyn Street, Since 1937

Two cutters who went out on their own

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 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 rather more private members' club than tailor's shop.

Visit the store

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. Have a browse through Men's Accessories, the wider men's collection, Gifts for Him, or the rest of our British brands.