Bondage trousers, the bowler hat, brogues, the dandy, the floral shirt and tie, the great coat/riding coat, the three piece suit, the trench coat, tweed and tartan, and wellington boots have all been identified as the ten iconic styles that originated in Britain and have become mainstays in international menswear.
Taken from a V&A study commissioned by the British Fashion Council and written by Keren Protheroe, a PHD alumnus of the History of Fashion course at the Royal College of Art, these ten British inventions seal the UK’s reputation as the global origin of men’s fashion.
The 4,000 word study travels in time, from 1528 to present day, and explores how over the centuries the rules of men’s fashion have been made and broken. The study is accompanied by a condensed menswear heritage map of London, which was also launched today by the Mayor of London.
The Mayor of London Boris Johnson said: 'With London Collections: Men going from strength to strength, this fascinating insight into the history of menswear is a timely reminder of why our city is the capital for men's clothing. Our illustrious heritage is accompanied by craftsmanship, innovation, plus a canny eye on the modern that ensures our designers remain at the forefront of fashion.'
Dylan Jones, Chair of London Collections commented ‘The Study offers a fascinating snapshot into the history and heritage of British menswear that amplifies the extraordinary legacy that we see around us today.’
Caroline Rush, CEO of the British Fashion Council, commented: ‘From the cobbled streets of London to rural Scotland the study celebrates the artistry, skill and excellence that make Britain the natural birthplace of menswear; a legacy that has never waned but instead goes from strength to strength, just look at the British designer brands and emerging talent showcased at London Collections: Men’.
Keren Protheroe, author of London: Home of Menswear, The History & Heritage, commented: ‘For over 300 years, British menswear has been an inexhaustible source of style and innovation. Its spectrum of achievement has provided the clothes to dress every sort of gentleman. This legacy of excellence continues across the globe. Its influence can be seen today on city streets, catwalks and stylish men the world over’.
London Collections: Men finishes today, 18th June 2013.
Notes to editors
For more information please visit: www.londoncollections.co.uk/men To read the full report online, please visit www.londoncollections.co.uk/historyheritage To access all the British Fashion Council’s media content visit their syndication portal britishfashioncouncil.rightster.com British Fashion Council on Facebook: www.facebook.com/britishfashioncouncil BFC on Twitter - @BFC and join the conversation #LCM For press enquiries regarding London Collections: Men, please contact: Will Rowley, British Fashion Council tel: +44 (0) 20 7759 1968 [email protected]