Walpole: Tell us about the history of your brand…
Jason Gerrard: Founded upon two of Britain’s most distinguished military tailors, Gieves & Hawkes traces its origins to Hawkes in 1771 and Gieves in 1785. From the outset, both houses earned unrivalled reputations in service to Crown and country: Hawkes as tailor to the British Army, and Gieves as an esteemed outfitter to the Royal Navy. Their clientele included national heroes such as Lord Nelson and the Duke of Wellington, establishing a legacy of precision, authority, and craftsmanship that endures today.
In 1913, Hawkes acquired No.1 Savile Row, securing an address that would come to define the pinnacle of British tailoring. Formerly home to aristocracy and learned societies, the townhouse became synonymous with refined London style, dressing royalty, statesmen, military leaders, and the world’s elite. The union of Gieves and Hawkes in 1974, followed by their relocation to this historic address in 1975, marked the creation of one of Savile Row’s most iconic Houses.
For over two centuries, the company has enjoyed continuous Royal patronage, holding warrants since the reign of George III. Its distinguished commissions include Queen Elizabeth II’s celebrated boat cloak of 1953, alongside garments crafted for successive generations of British royalty and royal households across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. These enduring relationships stand as a testament to an uncompromising standard of quality and service.
Innovation has always complemented tradition. From pioneering ready-to-wear tailoring in the early 20th century to developing practical naval garments and systems for military use, Gieves & Hawkes has consistently shaped the evolution of menswear. Despite the trials of war and the devastation of the Blitz, the house emerged resilient, reaffirming its dedication to bespoke craftsmanship.
Today, No.1 Savile Row remains the global headquarters of Gieves & Hawkes, meticulously restored to reflect a contemporary expression of masculine elegance while preserving its historic character. Housing bespoke workshops, military tailoring, and a rich archive, it continues to serve as the epicentre of a British luxury House defined by heritage, innovation, and excellence. With over 250 years of provenance, Gieves & Hawkes stands resolute in honouring its past while confidently tailoring the future.
What is your brand best known for?
Gieves has evolved to become a British luxury brand. We honour our heritage, but never rely on it alone; our design philosophy is forward-looking, continually pushing tailoring and design into a modern, progressive space. We champion young talent and apprentices, use British cloth wherever possible, and place the client at the centre of everything we do. Just as importantly, we are known for how we treat people; every client who enters our stores is treated equally with respect and value, creating a house that balances timeless craft with a contemporary vision.
What has been a significant achievement in your company’s timeline?
Being back in British stewardship since 2022.
Why do you love the brand?
Because it is endlessly layered. Each layer you peel back reveals more depth – of craftsmanship, story, and meaning – all adding to the richness of what you see. There is always a sense of discovery; the more you engage with it, the more it gives back, making it a house that continues to intrigue, inspire, and reward curiosity.
Why does your brand represent the very best in British luxury?
The house is built on strong foundations and remains unwaveringly true to them, with integrity at its core and a deep respect for what it means to be a British brand. Ours is a form of quiet luxury – considered, detail-driven, and never ostentatious – where every piece is elevated to be the best it can be. We are relentlessly forward-thinking, always refining, always improving, and always pushing boundaries, while remaining rooted in craftsmanship and purpose. As a brand and as a house, we are greater than the sum of our parts.
What attracted you to becoming a Walpole member?
Walpole and its members represent the very best of British luxury, which they strive to promote with passion and stoic belief. It creates a genuine melting pot of ideas, craftsmanship, and innovation, offering an invaluable resource for those shaping the future of luxury while celebrating its past. It is both a powerful platform and a thoughtful community, and that combination is what makes it so compelling.
If you could collaborate with another Walpole member, which one would you choose?
There are simply too many remarkable brands to choose from, which makes this a difficult question, but the Carnegie Club at Skibo Castle stands out. The values and ethos of our two brands are perfectly aligned, and creatively, there would be some fabulous moments.
Tell us about an exciting development or new launch for your brand in the coming months?
With the launch of our Spring/Summer 2026 ready-to-wear collection, we are excited to be moving Gieves & Hawkes forward towards a new chapter of not only tailoring, for which we are renowned, but a British wardrobe-building lifestyle collection.
gievesandhawkes.com
