Exploring the essence of British heritage and design at Pitti Uomo
05/01/2024
Ahead of Pitti Uomo in Florence this January, UK menswear brands have come together to articulate what British heritage and design really signify in today’s fast-moving retail market. Beyond the aesthetics, these brands share a collective ethos that transcends centuries and echoes through their craftsmanship, attention to detail and commitment to timeless design.
For English shoemaker Cheaney: “It’s a legacy steeped in centuries-old craftsmanship, reflecting the attention to detail and the timeless design that epitomise British shoemaking.” This sentiment is echoed by knitwear specialist Channel Jumper, which says: “We are proud to preserve a long legacy of Guernsey knitwear. Wearing one of our jumpers means wearing a piece of British history.”
English shoemaker Crockett & Jones adds: “As a fifth generation shoe manufacturer that has been crafting shoes on the same site since the 1890s, we are always inspired by what has gone before.” While shirt specialist Charles Tyrwhitt asserts that their narrative breaks stereotypes: “Britishness doesn’t have to mean stuffy or old – ‘if you know you know’- it’s about personality, confidence, modernity – not a desire for approval.”
Image 1: Cheaney. Image 2: Channel Jumper. Image 3: Crockett & Jones. Image 4: Charles Tyrwhitt.
The marriage of tradition and technology is evident in the manufacturing sector, with a nod to the past and a gaze towards the future. Knitwear manufacturer John Smedley explains: “Today, in our factories at Lea Mills and Armthorpe, we combine traditional craftsmanship with the latest technology to produce hand-finished garments of the highest quality.” This is echoed by cashmere specialist Joshua Ellis, which says: “Joshua Ellis is immensely proud of its industrial heritage and roots, pouring heart and soul into every metre of fabric and scarf produced.”
British hatmaker Christy’s Hats, emphasises: “For us it is about craftsmanship and quality, as a Great British hatmaker in our 251st year,” while Northampton shoemaker Tricker’s explains: “As we are one of the oldest English shoemakers since 1829, British heritage and design are incredibly important to us.”
Men’s jewellery and accessories specialist Elizabeth Parker suggests: “For us, British heritage is defined by the great style heroes throughout time; James Bond, Michael Caine and King Charles III to the contemporary mavericks David Beckham, Elton John and Harry Styles, these sartorial influencers are, like us, Champions of Formal.”
Image 1: Joshua Ellis. Image 2: John Smedley. Image 3: Christy’s Hats. Image 4: Tricker’s. Image 5: Elizabeth Parker.
Fox Umbrellas has been producing handmade umbrellas in the UK since 1868 and has “built a reputation for excellence, skill and superb craftsmanship”, while Hardy & Parsons, which specialises in belts and leathergoods, is steeped in British heritage and “reflects the British passion for horses, cars, dogs and regimental stripes.”
For Heron’s Ghyll, “British heritage represents refinement with a touch of self-deprecation and a spirit of rebellion”. “There is a rich history in British optics where craftsmanship meets style,” adds CEO Jason Kirk of eyewear brand Kirk & Kirk.
For footwear brand Loake: “British heritage is at the heart of our commitment to timeless style, traditional craftsmanship and the use of high-quality materials to create classic styles that are built to last.”
Footwear brand Loungers, which specialises in slippers and driving shoes, adds: “London living and British culture have been a main source of inspiration since the brand’s inception,” while conceptual streetwear brand Only The Blind says: “We are proud to be a part of the iconic British design community, creating unique, intricate pieces and leaning into the heritage of traditional methods of design.”
Image 1: Fox Umbrellas. Image 2: Heron’s Ghyll. Image 3: Kirk & Kirk. Image 4: Loake. Image 5: Loungers. Image 6: Only the Blind.
UKFT is accompanying a group of 56 British brands in January 2024 at Pitti Uomo, with the support of the Department for Business and Trade (DBT). British heritage and craftsmanship will be a major focus this season amongst the British exhibitors.
To find out more about UKFT’s activity at international trade shows, visit