Around the World in Vintage: London, 1930s.

For the next stop on our road trip, we are London-bound! Come with us to visit the famed Savile Row and its historic English tailors in 1930s London. Built on quality and traditional tailoring practices, Savile Row developed in the 20th century as the go-to street for top notch menswear. To this day, for a suit that stands the test of time, people all around the world take inspiration from classic English tailoring.

Photograph by Christopher Gentile Photography. Styling assistance Leah Hamilton. Featured here a 1940s suitcase with a variety of mens vintage trinkets that nod to the city of London and , all items from the gallery.

Throughout the history of menswear, trends have evolved gradually, developing small changes in silhouette and detail. Men's suits have remained largely the same, however at the turn of the century, and especially in the 20s and 30s, menswear began to relax in style and fit. With more significant changes in everyday attire, the decades in men’s fashion became more distinct. In the 1930s, men’s style underwent another shift when the silver screen became the main source for fashion inspiration and influence. The suave actors wore streamlined and casual silhouettes, often foregoing the waistcoat and tie. The general public took the hint and tailoring followed suit. 

For Savile Row, these shifts in menswear reinforced their traditions and differentiated them from the newly burgeoning mass produced and ready-to-wear market. Savile Row focused on the quality of well-practiced tailoring paired with good materials. Tailored menswear became a hallmark of London fashion and the public sought after the suits of Savile Row.

As our market changes and big brands sew a built-in expiration date into mass-produced clothing, vintage continues to stand the test of time. The tradition of quality, time and care can be found along the streets of Savile Row and in the treasures found at Boretski Gallery. We find pride in curating quality and sharing vintage treasures that last.