As new residents of the area we thought we would share some interesting bits we have found out about the area that make us feel at home in our new surroundings.

London has a rich history of dressmaking and tailoring, up until the early 19th Century, Paris had been the centre for fashion and clothing trends, but there became more of a desire in England for fit and form than for ostentation which is wear the Tailors began to flourish as they created a blend of style and practicality.  The West End, including Soho became a well known outlet for fine clothing goods. As Savile Row developed and grew in respect, so did other crafts people around it who would supply both to the tailors and customers.

The road adjacent to our new building was the home of another type of craftsman, as during the 1700’s tow famous musical instrument makers, Kirkman’s, harpsichord and pianoforte makers and  Broadwood’s which was established on Great Pulteney Street. Just behind Brewer Street is Golden Square, now home to many publishing and media agencies but in the 1800’s was a great position for the newly flourishing woollen and worsted merchants to be in as it was such close proximity to their biggest customers, the tailors. Likewise, the production of gold lace also sprung up in golden square, who in time gave their name to the area. Nearby, in Smiths Court, could be found the petticoat makers and leather specialists so that in a short walk, you could procure all the things you would need for new rags in London from all your specialist craftspeople.

Going back a bit further even Piccadilly which is only a short distance away is in fact named after a tailor who was in residence there in called Robert Baker, who made stiff, wide lace collars known as ‘Piccadills’. These were the height of fashion in the 17th Century which allowed Baker to go on to build himself a new residence nearby which became known as Piccadilly House which later gave its name to the area.

We are really looking forward to being a part of the rich history of craftspeople in the Soho/Mayfair area, come down and see us!