Awards 2025: Who’s your favourite menswear brand right now? 

Wednesday, January 15th 2025
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The Permanent Style Awards are back. We had a bit of a hiatus last year for ‘Dry January’ but I wanted to do the annual awards again, with some of the most popular categories from previous iterations, plus a couple of new ones. 

So I would like to know - or rather everyone would like to know - who is:

  1. Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why
  2. Your favourite product you bought last year (still why)
  3. Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these)
  4. Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores)
  5. Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever)

The point of these awards is to gather all the collected knowledge of 2 million+ Permanent Style readers around the world, at one time, because it's nice to do two things:

  • Provide recommendations to all the other 2 million+ readers
  • Recognise and reward the brands for their style and hard work

Although Permanent Style is bigger now than just me (Simon) it’s still much narrower than the experiences of all PS readers. The problem is those experiences are often scattered across many different comments sections. This puts them all in one place. 

In terms of why we chose these categories, the broad brand award allows everyone to mention anyone they like. The product award forces people to name a single thing they’d recommend. And there has to be one on artisans - otherwise they often miss out.

Those are categories we’ve done in the past. I've added the new ones because I know a lot of readers shop from non-niche, non-#menswear brands, but we rarely talk about them. So number 4 is an opportunity for everyone to say which they do most, and why. 

And then lastly, we need something that isn’t just about buying stuff. The most important thing about buying quality clothing is looking after it well - so I'd like to hear positive experiences of repairs, cleaning, and general maintenance. 

This might be from the brand itself or it might be a third party, either way the point is to help other people look after their things, through first-hand recommendations. Because everything else you scroll through just tells you to get something new. 

Please leave your nominations as a comment in the section below. 

Those comments will be the primary resource for everyone that wants to read and use this year’s recommendations. But I will also do a follow-up article in two weeks’ time congratulating the winners (those that were nominated the most) and listing a handful of runners’ up that were interesting. 

I can’t wait to see what you put. 

All six previous sets of awards (2018-2023) can be seen here in the PS archive with a quick search. How we announced the winners varied from year to year, but each primary article has all the nominations in the comments section.

Images, top to bottom: Our review of seven boat shoes; Edward Sexton offshore service; Blackhorse Lane jeans alterations; the worksop of Charlie Borrow

 

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Eoghan Er

Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why: Ralph Lauren-availability at several price points, vast depth of styles, easily available on the secondhand market. Your favourite product you bought last year (still why): Green Kamakura Soft Ivy shirt, great memories of picking up my new daughter from hospital in it. Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these): I don’t tend to buy from artistans, but I got a Camille Fournet wallet on Vinted recently, so I’ll say her. Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores): Uniqlo. Quality is decent for the price point, great basics too. Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever): Isaac Jackman cobbler in Dublin, repaired a pair of Crockett and Jones loafers for me when another “shoe repair” shop had made a hames of them on me by trying to glue the vamp back on.

Kinte

Kamakura is a spectacular brand! Congratulations on the new bewborn!

Eoghan Er

Thank you so much 🙂

JD

Tangentially, any recommendations out there for menswear stores in Ireland?

Con

The Bureau Belfast. Can’t recommend it enough. Simon has done an article on here about them.

Probably the best in-store experience I’ve had in my lifetime. Very relaxed and very helpful. Beautifully laid out selection in an expansive space in a beautiful building.

Worth the trip if travelling even from London

Dobadino

To answer JD … can be a bit of wilderness for good menswear… but at a push Irish brands and shops I have known.. Dublin based so bias…
Atkinson Ties, old firm making some great ties.
http://www.atkinsonsties.com/
Hanna hats, flatcaps made in Ireland.
https://hannahats.com/
Native Denim do made to measure jeans & moleskin.
https://nativedenims.com/
Stable have a few bits for men.
https://www.stableofireland.com/
Padmore and Barnes for casuals, few stockists around.
https://padmore-barnes-retail.com/
Jack Murphy has a line in big rain jacket and the like.
https://jackmurphy.ie/
Kevin and Howlin has rtw flannels and cords as well as lots of donegal tweed Blazers and Overcoats… they also do made to measure, stocks Atkinson ties.
https://www.kevinandhowlin.com/
Magee has lots of stuff, Tweed and the likes… they do made to measure.
https://www.magee1866.com/
Dubarry for wellies and they do field coats and some tweed.
https://ie.dubarry.com/
Mackintosh of Ireland, do rainwear.
https://www.mackintosh.ie/
Monaghans Cashmere are good if expensive.
https://monaghanscashmere.ie/
Kennedy and McSharry stock hats, think they stock Christy’s.
https://kennedymcsharry.ie/
Inis Meain knitwear is obviously top rate and decent.
https://inismeain.ie/shop/winter-pub-jacket-black-marl/
These lads will handknit you an Aran
https://www.omaille.com/product-category/aran-sweaters/

Dobadino

On an Irish clothing tangent Donegal tweed is going for PGI status the same as Harris… Worth your support!

Jonathan

Certainly recommend Kevin & Howlin, Monaghan’s and Hanna Hats. K & H also carries an excellent selection of Atkinsons ties alongside their handwoven Donegal tweeds. Some other suggestions:

– John Hanly, Foxford and Cushendale (dotted around) for Irish-made scarves, etc. I believe there are others.

– Garvin de Bruir (Kildare) for leather goods.

– David Young (Galway) for bespoke tailoring.

– Indigo & Cloth (Dublin) for a selection of independent brands.

– Thomas Ferguson (Banbridge) for various linens, including handkerchiefs.

Tamaki

**Rubato** // **Colhay’s**. I love all garments that Rubato does, especially their chinos. I have 3 chinos and one black jeans, and I love the proportions: mid-waist, good width on the legs and a slight taper. Colhay’s is a close second, but just don’t get there they never have enough stock plus the fact that you can’t search/filter by size or look the available sizes before clicking on an item**Chapal USAFF**. I absolutely love leather jackets and the suppleness of the sheep leather they use is indeed superb. The interlining in gaberdine cotton also feels nice by its robustness, contributing to make the whole jacket feel substantial. The proportions also work well for me, who is considerably slim, by its shortness (though not so short to require high-waisted trousers. Anything but low waist highstreet jeans work) and big upper volume.**The Anthology.** I don’t have many experience with artisans, MTM or bespoke, but the guys at The Anthology keep on delivering well made, well proportioned, and well priced garments for me again and again.**Uniqlo** I really like that they offer several non-synthetic options at very low price and still good quality and styling. Of course, they are not at the same level of the brands covered typically here but still super solid. I bought a linen shirt for the summer and it was one of the most used shirt because of how casual it looks while not having a ridiculously short collar. Their knitwear in 100% merino or lambswool are also very good.**Small alterations tailor nearby** I live near Paris and I had the opportunity to meet an alterations tailor that works really well, similar to what you would see in bespoke trousers: to slim/let out trousers she would reconstruct the whole trouser, and shortens / lengthens sleeves from the shoulder.

Kim

Hi Tamaki, would you mind sharing the details of the alterations tailor, I also live outside Paris and have been looking for a good one!

Tamaki

Hey Kim,, of course!
This is her address: https://g.co/kgs/WhUcsva

O.S

Hi! please do share the name/address of your alterations tailor! Thanks in advance

Jean

Same here ! Please let us know who ‘s the mystère tailor !
And also : how did you manage to order from the anthology? I dont recall seeing any trunkshow from them in Paris…

Tamaki

Ha! I just go visit them in London when they are doing trunkshows. I have the luck of their trunkshows often being on the same weeks when I have to go to London for work, so that spared me a few hundred euros with Eurostar.
The advantage of The Anthology is that they are so reliable in terms of the fit of the garments that now I can order without being re-measured. Though I do put an effort to not change my weight by much. So while the initial investment was higher because I had to pay for Eurostar, now it is better
Of course, I would love to chat more often with Buzz and the guys, but I still see them 2x per year because of the work trips coinciding with the trunkshow dates

Lindsay McKee

A Fine Pair of Shoes – my main source for Saphir Polish & shoe care accessories
Shibumi Firenze – Beautiful Ties
Mes Chaussettes Rouges – All Hosiery
Floris – Colognes
John Smedley – knitwear
Crockett & Jones – RTW shoes

Petronio

Your favourite menswear brand: Anglo-Italian because it is the best of the two best (London and Naples)
Your favourite product you bought last year (still why): a pair of trousers from Casatlantic: great retro style with the high waist and large shape which is classic-retro but also in line with the current fashion. And I hate slim fit.
Your favourite artisan in the world: Antonio Aglietti shoemaker in Rome
Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores): Uniqlo and OVS
Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever): Alvisi in Milan

Kent

Uniqlo is a shadow of its former self as the brand is now targeting the “yoof” market. The new website, especially the navigation, is abysmal. The classic chinos and selvedge jeans are no longer available. The v-neck pima cotton t-shirts, ideal for the beach and pool, were also dropped last year. Even the range of button-down shirts, another cheap Ivy alternative to Polo and Gant, has been cut back too. I’m praying that the chino shorts come back this year as I have lost weight need a smaller size.

Jay

I love my Uniqlo pieces, but you couldn’t be more right about that website – my goodness! It’s like a maze. A horrible maze. If I didn’t have a brick-and-mortar near my house, I don’t know what I’d do.

Stephen

100% agree on the website. They could have done with better market research on that.
As with all mainstream brands. What they produce and what you like will always vary over time.

Gus

My favourite brand right now is Iron Heart.

Janek K

For me there is a tie between Bryceland’s and The Anthology. Both perfectly capture elegance without formality. Also, both offer supreme customer online service. Bryceland’s products fit is great for bigger sizes (UK 44), IMO.
Bryceland’s Denim 133s & Wool Sport Jacket – The Anthology x JKF Man Harris Tweed

Troy

How about size 42 for Medium build?

Chuck

It is between Auralee, Kaptain Sunshine, 45r or Evan Kinori.

Alex

Just, YES

John Doe

Nice.

Akis

Your favourite menswear brand: Berg & Berg / great fit and qualityYour favourite product you bought last year: Drake’s ecru jeans / mainly fit and the colorYour favourite artisan in the world: Bleu de Chauffe / the best canvas bag i ever usedYour favourite mainstream brand: UniqloYour best repair or maintenance experience: Not real experience there

Nezar

A. Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why:
Cesare Attolni. Classic yet elegant designs in lovely well considered fabrics and with lots of handwork. Always quality.
B. Your favourite product you bought last year (still why):
Cesare Attolini tailored trousers (limited edition (4 pairs) from Michael Jondral) in vintage Japanese denim. Beautiful comfortable cut using a lovely fabric in the perfect (gorgeous) shade of blue denim.
C. Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these):
Norman Vilalta. Designs that are very often beautiful and are always original. Great qualify across the entire range of footwear offered. Continuous innovation.
D. Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores):
Brioni. Great quality (cuts and fabric in particular) coupled with a semi-personalized service and an appetite for experimentation.
E. Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever):
No major repairs yet needed for my items (although just had a few holes in a lovely Corneliani wool/cashemere turtleneck repaired beautifully by their in-house tailor in Bahrain). I always brush my clothes after every wear and hang them up outside the closet to dry for about 12 hours before putting them back in the closet (shirts aside; if they can be worn twice in a row they continue to be hung outside the closet). Shoes are always brushed and left out of the box for up to 12 hours before being placed back into their box.

Kent
  1. Cording’s – great fit, very good quality, professional service, attractive presentation (packaging) and affordable prices.
  2. Tricker’s Grassmere boots – perfect fit, no break-in required, indestructible, easy to clean.
  3. Huntsman – love the house style but can’t afford the crazy high prices under the new ownership.
  4. Polo Ralph Lauren – lots of genuine Madras and seersucker in my hot summer and holiday wardrobe.
  5. Barbour – excellent and fast repairs at a ridiculously cheap price.
Ankit

What a splendid selection!

TomTom

Your favourite menswear brand: Cording’s for traditional English country style (tweed jackets, moleskin trousers, knitwear are all excellent)and beautiful shop plus excellent staff and Cavour for their Italian style suits and sports jackets
Your favourite product you bought last year (still why): Cording’s tweed jacket in heavy Lovat 21oz tweed. Beautiful , comfortable fit and excellent quality
Your favourite artisan in the world: I would have to say Corthay, his shoes are a dream , maybe one day 🙂
Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores): Uniqlo , bets affordable knitwear . Have several of their roll neck, merino v necks, t shirts etc..
Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever): my local alteration tailor in Se London is a dream and has been doing excellent work on all my garments. Showed one of the alterations to a Saville row tailor ( we have friends in common) and he was amazed by the quality of stitching and work

Alex

Tomtom – is that garment studio by any chance? I have had some great alterations from them. If not do share yours as i’m also in SE!

Eitan Marks

I would like to nominate Glenn Au from Junior’s. He made the blue blazer I wore for my wedding and wear every week since, more or less. His point of view and house style look very subtle and “normal,” and his choices of fabrics and accessories are very coherent. He lives in Philadelphia but made the effort to meet me in Boston to measure me for my jacket (This was before he had the storefront). And the jacket came out fitting as perfectly as I can think of! I’ve heard some horror stories from bad MTM and Glenn was able to deliver a product that makes me just feel good in my own skin.

KE-796-C
Euan

You look fantastic sir!

Other Aaron

Love the hat too!

Rich

Beautiful blazer and outfit. I completely agree. I purchased several fantastic pieces from Glenn and they’ve become almost every day staples. Excellent shop.

Gab
  1. Your favourite menswear brand: Rubato. Excellent quality, fit, right level of unusualness without ever being over the top and very weareable. The Anthology is a close second for the value / money and the fantastic customer service.
  2. Your favourite product you bought last year: PS cashmere rugby shirt. I own three. In noted however some rather important differencies in terms of sizing, even though they are all sized medium.
  3. Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these): WW Chan. I commissionned two suits. 1st one was made after a 15 mns meeting, just 1 fitting and the result is impressive. Excellent value / money as well.
CM
  1. Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why: Iron Heart (UHF shirts) and AngloItalian (would happily be kitted out in them)
  2. Your favourite product you bought last year: Studio D’Artisan suvin gold loopwheel t-shirt from Rivet and Hide (London). Incredibly soft and comfortable but still hefty.
  3. Your favourite artisan in the world: Samurai Jeans. Taking ‘Made in Japan’ to the next level with Japanese cotton and organic dyes from Japan. Passion and craftsmanship.
  4. Your favourite mainstream brand: Ralph Lauren: haven’t bought from them in years but their stores are beautiful and designs interesting.
  5. Your best repair or maintenance experience: Blackhorse Lane.
Liam

Your favourite menswear brand: Rubato, perfect mix of style & quality.
Your favourite product you bought last year: Anglo-Italian Charcoal Flannels. First pair of flannels & they did not disappoint!
Your favourite artisan in the world: Not menswear but Domaine L’Octavin. For unwavering commitment to making wine with as little intervention as possible.
Your favourite mainstream brand: Ralph Lauren.
best repair or maintenance experience: Hemming service from Rivet & Hide Manchester.

Rune
  1. Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now: If I had to pick one it would have to be Adret. If it wasnt for the high prices I would wear their clothes every day. They are the softest and most elegant non-suit clothes I own and i regularly get compliemnts from strangers when wearing it.
  2. Your favourite product you bought last year: Josephinenhütte wine glasses. 2024 was a slim year in terms of special menswear pick-ups for me, but these glasses are really something and I love enjoying a good glass of wine.
  3. Your favourite artisan in the world: Cifonelli. I Got a 3-piece bespoke suit made for wedding in 2023 and its absolutely stunning. Its my first true bespoke experience and I chose cifonelli partly based on what I have read here on PS. I love their style and the suit is not my own personal armor for more formal occasions. The experience thoughout the making of the suit also highlights what differentiates true artisans and craftsmen from my other MTM experiences elswhere.
  4. Your favourite mainstream brand: ugh none really, I guess Nike for training clothes..
  5. Your best repair or maintenance experience: None to report, its so difficult finding places to have this done.
Andrew B

Hi Simon

– Rubato. I have only bought one pair of chinos and two belts from them and don’t really plan to buy more, but I find the look and the quality of the products is good.
– a pair of bespoke dark brown suede half brogues from Stivaleria Mercurio in Rome. I finally found a shoemaker who can make me shoes for my somewhat difficult feet that I can wear all day and walk a lot with no pain. Plus they look great.
– Tommy & Giulio Caraceni. After Ferdinando Caraceni I thought I would struggle to find another tailor but T&G have more than delivered. Beautiful work, Great service, Nice people.
– Marinella. They maybe don’t quite reach 10 stores but they are very close and their products are pretty widely available elsewhere as well.
– Sartoria Raffaele in Milan altered a jacket for me made by Ferdinando Caraceni that for various reasons never fit well. They saved they jacket from being sold or gifted to someone else.

Mikkel

1 Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why
– I am a very loyal customer, once I find something I like, I tend to stick with it.
Currently my wardrobe mainly consists of Rubato (you know them well, so I won’t go in detail but my god is it nice stuff!) and Andersen Andersen.
For chunky knitwear I always always reach for Andersen Andersen, either their navy(not the colour but their model) turtleneck or their Skipper jacket.
I’ve considered recommending the skipper jacket piece many times before.
Why so? Well, I find that 9 out of 10 days I wear one of their skipper jackets. I live in Denmark it’s often slightly cold and it’s just so comfy! I reach for them every single day (almost).
It’s important to mention they call it a jacket buts honestly it’s a chunky cardigan, an alternative to a shawl collar cardigan. I find the model easier to wear as a guy in the mid 30s than a shawl collar. It strikes a perfect balance between formal and casual, to hit that business casual point. You can dress it up with wool trousers or down with a pair of jeans.
And a lot of my trousers are now Rubato, and I find they compliment each other well.

I have rubato knit which I love but find I tend to reach for the skipper jacket most days (so much I got it in 4 colours).

—————-
Your favourite product you bought last year (still why)
Andersen Andersen skipper jacket in black – after your piece on tonal looks using the Rubato lookbook my wife gifted me the black skipper jacket (again, it’s honestly not at all a jacket. It’s a thick cardigan). I’ve found that it slots perfectly into the black knitwear suggestions you made in that article and then I love it even more because it’s from my wife.

My 2 cents

Kieran W

Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why – Private White VC – Amazing quality and a story behind each material and piece of clothing.Your favourite product you bought last year (still why) – I found a pair of Loding GYW, split toe, tan scotch grain shoes in a charity shop in sorry condition but thought all they needed was some badly needed care and a reheel. €6 for the shoes and €25 for the reheel and I spent some time between cleaning and applying Saphir Médaille d’Or products and they turned out amazing. My favourite shoe to wear and I was really happy with how they turned out. My favourite because I had a hand in transforming them from a sorry state to fantastic condition. Notable mention, an Iron Heart 7.7oz oiled cotton chore coat in a beautiful rust colour.Your favourite artisan in the world – F.P. Journe, currently I can only dream and apsire to own any of his watches but maybe someday. Clothing it would be Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores) – Zara, a lot of meh of course but I have found some great fitting and much better quality than expected clothes recently, 100% wool bomber, a buffalo leather suede chore coat and I like the childrens range for my son.Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever) – Tully Watch Repairs in Loughrea, Ireland. Sent in my Dad’s Oris watch he received as an 18th birthday present in 1975. Hadn’t seen the light of day in 40+ years and was a non runner with broken acrylic crystal when he gave it to me for a recent Christmas. I asked could they refurbish the movement, replace the cyrstal and leave it visually as is bar a clean of the dial. Came back working perfectly with the few scrapes and bumps still there but a beautiful top hat acrylic and refurbed original movement. My Dad couldn’t get over how well it turned out but wouldn’t accept it when I tried to give it back to him. One that will never leave the collection. Notable mention Progress Dry Cleaners in Limerick, Ireland. Excellent service and have transformed a number of items of clothing, a good dry cleaners is essential for good maintenance. Also Franklins shoe repair in Limerick.

Jamie A

Thanks for doing this, Simon. A few answers from me:
Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now: Rubato. Maybe an unoriginal choice on PS, but I love the overall aesthetic, how things go together so easily, and, especially, the quality. Their chinos, shirts, etc. are expensive but feel like they will last a lifetime – like a combination of Japanese workwear ruggedness with a more refined look.
I would also mention PS. Beyond the great products, the way you update on expected deliveries and explain design and manufacturing decisions and changes is very useful, and feels a bit more grown-up (?) than either hyped-up ‘drops’ or an endless drip drip of new (and, let’s be honest, often unnecessary) items from other brands.
Your favourite product you bought last year: Rubato R Shirts in blue and white & blue stripes. Became my go-to tops through the summer. Can look smarter or more casual, go with jeans, shorts, stick ’em in the wash with no worries. Can’t ask for more…
Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever): Not really an answer to this, but I have used a tailor far more frequently (partly encouraged by PS reading). Rather than letting things sit in the back of wardrobes or drawers, I’ve made sure to get them hemmed, etc. and in rotation (or up for sale on Marrkt, which is also a great service).
Cheers

Luca Fiorito

My 2 cents:
Husbands Paris and Private White. I admire the former i buy the latter.Lawrence Smith’ shetland jumper.Liverano.Finamore, although it may not fit in this catgegory. Armani would be the right answer, I suppose.A dearest friend of mine in Arezzo soon to become a first-ranking bespoke taylor.

Kev

Favourite brand: Iron Heart. their signature 21oz denim is impressively soft, given how heavy they are. Very well construction on their garments, and they have a great community around.
Favourite product bought last year: -brown rota flat front trousers. I got this off of Marrkt, because I needed something for a wedding, 
but it became one of my favourite trousers to wear because how well it fits, and how nice the fabric feels against my skin
Favourite artisan in the world: S.E.H Kelly. Beautiful presentation of their product, reading the product description have always felt like reading a story
Favourite mainstream brand: Uniqlo, dependable basics, also great for trying out new style/items for cheap before committing to higher-tier brands.
Best repair/maintenance: haven’t had the need to send anything for a repair, but I have bought a few suede cleaning/maintenance products from A Fine Pair Of Shoes, and have had advice from them that worked out well.

Brian

Totally agree re Iron Heart. Their products are top notch, but it’s their online service that really differentiates them. It’s off the scale good. The community forum is also great. It’s a really helpful resource for sizing advice, and how the clothes age.

Fred

1. Currently really enjoy Casatlantic- their clothes are classic yet modern, throwback yet stylish. Their lookbooks are just so lovely and really show how to style their stuff. I also love how focused their collections are…never a full look, just a sensible number of great things.

2. After a couple of years of thought, I picked up a rayon shirt from Brycelands. It’s so well made and so perfect for dressing up and down. Don’t wear it often, but it puts a smile on my face when I do.

3. Not sure…

4. I haven’t frequented or considered frequenting one this year- vintage and one off new pieces from small brands only for me.

5. The first time I polished a pair of shoes with my step father. A special moment and learning that has stayed with me ever since.

Jack Kinney

—Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why?
Connolly, for their fresh takes on classic and casual clothing.
—Your favourite product you bought last year (still why)?
A wool overcoat with a large houndstooth pattern. Love the pattern. Had been looking for something from Dashing Tweeds for years.
—Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these)?
Kimberley Lawton. She has an extremely interesting point-of-view on classic tailoring that can be dressed down slightly, and her work is extraordinarily precise.
—Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores)?
Ralph Lauren by default. I can’t think of any other menswear stores with so many locations. The styling is great. I think it’s very overpriced, though, and I don’t generally buy from it.
—Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever)?
Will Field let out a few suits he made for me when I was younger and smaller. Perfect work.

Henry M

Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why
Rubato – They seem to simply focus on making the best versions of clothing, it generally feels like a lot of thought has gone into every product. They make my favourite knitwear, it feels great, looks great and is practical. I was looking for a belt recently and hadnt thought of Rubato at first, but when I did I saw they produce the best looking and best quality belts for a decent price IMO.
Your favourite product you bought last year (still why)
Blackhorse Lane ECRU Jeans – I have avoided white jeans in the past for practical reasons, I put that to one side and I am amazed at how many new outfits I have from one item. They go with pretty much every colour and cross smart and casual outfits.
Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these)
Stoffa – I just love what they stand for and what they are trying to do to menswear
Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores)
Ralph Lauren – consistently great style
Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever)
I need to do more of this, I haven’t had much success so will be looking here for suggestions.

Michael

Brycelands for me increasingly offers a different take on classic clothing. 
As above, a Byrceland’s sweatshirt. Just a sweatshirt but the cut makes it feel more modern somehow and other sweatshirts feel a bit disappointing.
Not clothing I know, but Alex Coffee in Fitzrovia offer permanently good coffee and passion for his craft.  
Uniqlo for basics and sports wear. 
Blackhorse Lane for no quibble or judgement repairs of jeans and chinos.
Best wishes with the awards.

Other Aaron

Any thoughts on their tailoring? I’m looking at the schoolboy blazer online, but got slightly burnt with the Greek slippers I bought from them (kinda nasty sweaty sole). Sadly I’m down in New Zealand so can’t get to their stores and they’re kinda rude on their online chat.

Markus S

Colhay’s…. good designs, great quality, superb information on their webpage and good service (a close second would be Rota Pantaloni)The lambswool tennis cardigan from Colhay’s in oatmeal. Easy to wear indoors with the best light colour in knitwear I am aware of.I do not have an favourite artisan.Luca FaloniNot sufficient experience

Markus S

On second thoughts, I would actually call PS my favourite brand. None of the products have disappointed me so far and each of them is original in a good way:

The Oxford shirts, I have four, are my favourite PS product. The fabric is great and the colours are spot on, more muted and paler than most other designers.

The PS t-shirts follow close behind and are the only t-shirts I have except for the hottest days (Sunspel is my choice there). I am waiting for an olive.

The PS shorts, beige and green, are the only shorts I like to wear. They strike a perfect middle ground.

The same goes for The New Friday polo, I have the navy blue.

The two PS products were I would change a tweak are The Finest Polo, where the sleeve could be a touch longer, and the PS chambray shirt, which could be a touch lighter in colour.

Paul

Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why
PS is pretty consistent with bringing great products to market that fill gaps.
But non PS – either Anderson and Sheppard for consistency of classics; or Adret for making just beautiful pieces.
 Your favourite product you bought last year (still why)
J Mueser trousers – perfect colour, and great fit for a RTW with some small adaptations and style is fashionable enough without going to far.
Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these)Maison Hellard – I stopped by in summer last year to the factory, and they had an amazing array of linens which you don’t find anywhere else. Super friendly and welcoming.
Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores)Canali for the longevity – probably my first wave of purchases of “expensive” menswear, but still going strong.
Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever)The Valet – I picked up a host of vintage overcoats and shoes this year, and they helped me modernise and retailor.

Other Aaron

What colour were the trousers? I’ve just started looking at this brand. Any other thoughts?

Eric Twardzik

1. Drake’s. There’s a reason so many more mainstream brands have been aping its designs of late. No one else has so managed to perfect the triad of heritage inspiration, original design and quality materials.
2. The Drake’s Expedition Parka in olive waxed cotton. It’s the rare piece that changed my entire thinking about a category of garment, as I’d long disliked parkas for their bland, techy appearance and hadn’t owned one since I was a student. The throwback design of the Drake’s model changed my thinking on that.
3. Paolo Penko, the Florentine goldsmith who partners with L’Arte Nascosta, an Italian artisan collective. Through it, Penko made me one of his “Ellenistico” signet rings with a custom engraving of the angel Gabriel, based on an Orthodox icon, as an heirloom-in-waiting to my son of the same name. It’s an incredible beautiful and special object to me and I hope it is passed down for generations to come.
4. Ralph Lauren. Even if I don’t buy anything, the rigs in store always provide a little inspiration for me to bring home.
5. Recently a cashmere cable knit made by Hawico and purchased from the Andover Shop in Cambridge, Massachusetts, developed a tear near the flex point by the armpit. I brought it into the shop expecting their tailor could stitch it up, and was told by an employee that the owner of Hawico was visiting next month and would take the sweater back with him for repair in its original factory. Can’t beat that.

Steven

Andover shop in… Andover? How did I not know they were there? My wife and I had dinner a block up the street from them yesterday evening.

Thank you for bringing them to my attention.

King_Harrold

Colmore Tailors – Suits
Paul James – Knitwear
Corgi – Socks
Johnston’s of Elgin – knitwear / scarfs
Charles Tyrwhitt – Shirts
Dents – Leather goods

AK

1) on an overall level Bryceland’s but I’ll go with Casatlantic for nailing their aesthetic every time in a very wearable way
2) Andover Shop vintage camel sack jacket
3) working on a commission with Vittorio Salino and it might be premature but I’d go with him
4) Buck Mason has been really on point recently
5) Revive Shoe Repair in Montebello (Los Angeles). He specializes in boots but will handle anything welted. He’s a real shoe nerd with a joy for the craft and basically rebuilt my favorite and most abused pair of boots from the ground up.

Matthias

Favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why:
The Anthology, because they consistently find the sweet spot between formal and casual, deliver stylish, well-made, comfortable clothes and offer great service.
Favourite product you bought last year:
A pair of Officine Creative chukka boots, because they are incredibly comfortable, super versatile and so far seem very durable.Favourite artisan in the world:
I haven’t yet had a chance to buy from him, but I hope to do so soon: Charlie BorrowFavourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores):
Uniqlo for good-looking basicsBest repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever):
Deuxième Vie, a small shop in Geneva that specialises in creating products from recycled materials, but also does a great job of repairing clothes, making alterations, etc.

Liam

Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why: Brycelands. Great quality and nice styling. Quite pricey but certainly not ‘overpriced’.Your favourite product you bought last year (still why): A vintage Hackett St George’s flag jumper. Thick wool, made in England (or Scotland, can’t remember), and hilariously patriotic. Comfy to lounge around in and I wore it as an outer garment skiing this season, layered over a couple other things. Great thing for all those RL-enjoyers like me who feel that walking around with a US flag is a little questionable.Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these): No idea, haven’t tried any and can’t name any either.Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores): Ralph Lauren. Incredible brand that produces some real gems (once one sorts through the chaff). Many of my favourite items of clothing are vintage Ralph Lauren (many, many great things out there to be found!)Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever): waxjacketcleaning on Instagram do good work. I have a few things that need work, including some shetland jumpers, so any suggestions and recommendations would be highly appreciated!

m

My favourite menswear brand has to be The Anthology. They have really proven themselves over the years and if I was stuck with only one brand/maker then at the moment I feel they would be it.This isn’t an easy endorsement for me to make as I’m on principle level quite sensitive about Chinese brands so it speaks a lot I think. I feel their main strengths are overall good taste level, cohesive design, very good presentation on their webpage and in my experience friendly and accommodating customer service. Another important quality of theirs is that most of their collection is available for quite a long time and in all sizes with fixed prices so I can take my time to consider and plan my purchases. No fear of missing out or gambling with discounts.

This has been a slower year for me in terms of my wardrobe building as my focus has been elsewhere but I did get another pair of Vass Norwegers for this autumn and those are just a great shoe to wear with chunky knits, heavy trousers and coats. For next year I’m trying to stabilise my weight and put in a few bespoke orders in I’ve been holding off on.

I’m not that interested in mainstream brands as luxury ones offer a bad value and more affordable ones rarely make a product I’d buy over a specialist brand. If I had to nominate one then I guess Ralph Lauren is as reliable as ever and has got you covered no matter who you are or where you are.

This won’t be helpful to fellow readers but my preferred alteration/repair service has to be my dear mom. I feel lucky in this regard even if the success rate has been… less than 100%…

howie

hi simon: is this a survey of our our second favorite brand after PS?

Other Aaron

❤️

Brian

This is a fun exercise. I was surprised by the fact that I had a different brand for each of the 5 sections.
1 – 100 Hands. The quality of their products (gold line, m2m) is quite unparalleled. They also have a team that is very dedicated to customer satisfaction. My orders haven’t been without incident, however, they have always worked very hard to make sure things are taken care of.
2 – A New and Lingwood cashmere dressing gown. I got a great deal on one and find that I wear it constantly during these colder months. It’s also very well constructed.
3 – Northmen. Not a menswear brand (although I do have a belt from them), more tools. I have an axe and a field knife from them that are the best quality I have seen. The guild uses old-world craftsmanship that is akin to artisans. The burl on my knife handle chipped and they replaced the handle with no questions asked. I also felled a 50 foot oak tree with the axe and the blade was so sharp afterwards you could shave with it. Everything they make is beautiful and functional.
4 – Zegna. I have quite a few of their pieces. They are well made, luxurious, and they all hold up as well as you would hope given the cost. The durability is something that I sadly don’t see a lot with expensive/luxury brands.
5 – This one was tricky. I think the restoration of my grandfather’s arm chair. It had been stored improperly for a long time and was in a very sad state. I worked with a local upholsterer who sourced fantastic quality leather, and the seat itself I had upholstered with a heavy tweed from Islay Wool Mill. The chair came out like a picture.

Tim Mooij-Knip

Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now
Evan Kinori, gorgeous, well considered craftsmanship with attention to detail and narrative.
Your favourite product you bought last year
Luca Avitabile white dress shirt on vinted (I am not rich). Never had such a thing of beauty in my hands before. Thanks for the recommend Simon.
Your favourite artisan in the world
Oliver Church. Under the radar, young guy, keeping the spirit of meticulous making in honour
Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores)
William Lockie, soft and good knits.
Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever)
I learnt to repair knitwear myself and honestly it was a joy restoring an old made in Scotland hermés cashmere sweater that I bought for 30 euro’s on vinted to a nice state. 

Zawaad

My favorite menswear brand in the world would have to be a tie between The Anthology and Bryceland’s. The color palettes of The Anthology and the way they style their garments is pretty much bang on to how I would love to wear tailoring: sharp but still relaxed. Bryceland’s just makes the casual/rock n roll side of me elated. I love wearing cowboy boots, black jeans, band t shirts, and Bryceland’s just captures that aesthetic at a higher level.my favorite item I bought last year was undoubtedly my Carmina brown suede tassel loafers. I wore them so much that they required a resole before a year. I’ve worn them with tailored trousers, dark wash to light wash jeans, white jeans, chinos, fatigue pants. It’s the most versatile and comfortable shoe I’ve ever had, other than my brown suede chukka boots (also Carmina.)My favorite artisan (menswear related) is Seiji McCarthy. Anytime I see his shoes I get envious that I don’t own them. He captures the ethos of Alden in a more refined and neater way, which I love. My favorite non-menswear related artisan (I know, not relevant but I couldn’t help it) is easily @twsmithguitars on Instagram. Tom makes some beautiful and technically profound instruments.My favorite mainstream store is easily Buck Mason. Their field spec heavy weight tees are staples for me in my rotation, and their color palettes are always well done. All their products certainly aim to serve a purpose in a wardrobe, and I can easily see myself being dressed head to toe in their catalog.My best repair experience was actually picked up last week. I gave my Carmina suede tassels to Hector’s Shoe Repair/B Nelson in NYC, and they did a fantastic job: half rubber sole with metal toe tap, heel tap, the whole thing.

Nick

Your favourite menswear brand – Anglo-Italian. Fantastic and friendly service, stylish and good quality product and they don’t seem to have gone to the stratosphere with prices like some others. Your favourite product – Edward green oxfords. I just wear them all the time and don’t feel like a need other shoes (even though I do have others). That being said I feel that way about all EG shoes when I wear them (i.e. loafers and derbies) I just want to wear them all the time Your favourite artisan in the world – Joe Holsgrove (tailoring) and John Garland (shirtmaker). Bespoke is often a bit of a gamble but the delivery of these two is very consistent and stylistically I got what I wanted because it was both within their style (i.e. English) but in the smaller details they really listened. Plus the quality and pricing are excellent. Your favourite mainstream brand: Crockett and Jones (12 stores) I a world were larger brands have very questionable pricing, CJ are really appealing as you pay what you get for and I do love a lot of their styles. I would urge them to think of more boots designs though (without going crazy on buckles and furs) Your best repair or maintenance experience: Tony’s heel bar in London do great work

Liam

Your favourite menswear brand: Rubato for the quality & impeccable taste.
Your favourite product you bought last year (still why): Charcoal Flannels from Anglo-Italian. My first pair of flannels, the fit & cloth is spot on. The instore customer service & alterations service was first class.
Your favourite artisan in the world: Viberg. They stand out from other heritage boot makers, incorporating design & finesse into a hard-wearing product.
Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores): Ralph Lauren, their taste is consistently much better than their rivals.
Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever): Hemming service at Rivet & Hide Manchester!

Thierry

Your favourite menswear brand: Cohérence. Not that I possess a piece.
Your favourite product you bought last year (still why): a pair of trousers Rota Italiano. Linen. you can order in sizes like 51 and specify the leg length. It’s nearly bespoke.
Your favourite artisan in the world: Kreis Ledermanufaktur. Belts made to order.
Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores): Luca Faloni. Very beautiful shirts, well made, not too expensive.
Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever): Schneideratelier Laouva UG, Berlin. Schuh-Konzept, Berlin.

L.deJong

1.   Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why
Oh that’s a difficult one to answer in one sentence. Of course Drakes comes to mind and I bought a lot from them in the past. But they are getting more and more expensive and I don’t think a lot of value is there anymore. So Drakes will be a no now. Rubato is nice, but I don’t own much from them. Luxire is very close now that I get great ocbds from them for a fair price. If I look in my closet I get most of my stuff from very small menswear stores, so I do not have a real favourite. I’m partial to the stores I frequent and buy from though. Store Du Nord in The Hague for workwear, The Hand in Amsterdam for my shoes, Frans Boone for my sweaters and other stuff that’s nice, Permanent style for the ocbd cloth and now eyeing the driver raincoat, etc. etc. so I do not really have a real ‘menswear brand’ kind of thing. All my trousers, suits, coats are all made bespoke bought by the cloth I provide. But if I had to force an answer I would say The Hand in Amsterdam. Very nice selection of brands, very helpful and considering and also a lot of expertise regarding fit and construction. Now that real retail is going the way of the Dodo, it’s nice to have a physical store to try on your shoes and get the right advice!  
2.   Your favourite product you bought last year (still why)
My favourite purchase last year are ocbd’s that I had made by Luxire, nobody does a collar roll like them (mtm) all my bespoke shirtmakers just struggle with that nice casual ocbd collar. So now I finally have good fitting ocbds with a nice collar for a fair price. Mind you I didn’t copy existing bespoke dress shirts, so for me it’s not a replacement for normal bespoke suits/trouser/shirts those are still made by my tailor.
3.   Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these)
That’s simple, my tailor for the past 8 years, Gianni Lovadina from Desio (northern Italy) not on the same level as say A. Caraceni or Dembech but for the p/q a steal and over the years I build a very good relationship with him. He is now pushing into his eighties so I may have to find a replacement soonish. But as long as he makes clothing I will stick with him. I consider him my grandad and he sees me as is nipote. I always make sure to have lunch/diner with him. A real oldskool gentleman. There is nothing like a good relationship with your tailor, the garments he made for me are truly special because of that relationship. I will cherish them for as long as I wear them.
4.   Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores)
I’m now in the process of ordering my first mtm shoe from Saint Crispin, I have a lot of respect for them, but I don’t have the experience yet to say it’s my favourite brand. (can you call it mainstream? It has atleast 10 outlets, not real stores). It we don’t consider them and go for 10 brand stores I would say; nothing. I don’t buy anything from big mainstream brands. Oh maybe my Sloggy underwear hahaha.  
5.   Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever)
Gianni Lovadina, my tailor, always goes above and beyond even trouser/suits from 8 years ago will be mended or adjusted free of charge. 

Jacob

Favorite brand, and why: I know it’s probably not what you’re looking for, but many of my favorite pieces from this year were from the PS shop! The tapered tees, undershirts (which I’ve especially enjoyed), the chambray cloth–all have been great buys. And I appreciate the collaborations with Allevol/100 Hands/The Anthology/etc. to produce some really excellent product.
Favorite product I bought last year: the Nigel Cabourn Everest Parka, after reading the How Great Things Age profile here; I happened across one in my size on eBay, and could not be happier. It’s made going outside in this pretty frigid New England winter so much more bearable, great with casualwear, and just looks cool.
Favorite artisan in the world: probably Seiji McCarthy at the moment; I’m not usually one for bespoke shoes (not yet, at least), but his work is absolutely beautiful. I also appreciated his episode on the Blamo! podcast, which had some fascinating insights on the economics of artisan work in Tokyo. Close second is Yamamoto-san at Tailor Caid, just for being such a nice guy and chatting when I randomly showed up to his atelier last spring!
Favorite mainstream brand: gotta be Uniqlo. As others have mentioned, unbeatable for the most basic of basics.
Best repair or maintenance experience: the great folks at Railcar Fine Goods in El Monte, CA, saved a pair of selvedge denim for me a few years back. The hem had been butchered (my fault, not the tailor’s), and I was worried any fix that looked half-decent would render the jeans way too short. But they were so helpful over email diagnosing the problem, the fix was speedy (even with the shipping to/from CA), and the result was better than I could have ever hoped for. Very much recommend!

Richard
  1. 100 hands. Great design, fabrics and quality.
  2. Drake’s Navy Merino Polo. The styling and quality is astonishing. It’s pure enjoyment to wear.
  3. Sartoria Orru, Cagliari, Italy. Great tailor at reasonable prices.
  4. Ralph Lauren, quality and style.
  5. Paul Dascotte, Nivelles, Belgium.
Matt L

Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now – Real McCoys, I’ve worn about 4 items of theirs last year as regular wear and I’m impressed with their consistent quality.

Your favourite product you bought last year – Viberg 2030 Service Boots in brown chromexel. They’ve become my everyday casual footwear. Breaking a lifetime of wearing trainers.

Your favourite artisan – The team at Taillour who have given me excellent customer service and attention.

Your favourite mainstream brand – Can I answer RRL specifically? If not, Ralph Lauren.

Your best repair or maintenance experience – Pinnas and Needles have consistently delivered excellent work and near-invisible repairs on knitwear.

Raphael

Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why:

– Natalino, because they provide a good range of solid basics like high rise cotton trousers, everyday shirts and more at an attractive price point. The fact that they have a store now where things can be tried on is a massive value-add.

Your favourite product you bought last year:

– A heavy Fox Brothers wool polo coat made by Sartoria Cuomo, because the moment I’ve put it on for the first time, I knew this will stay with me for many years to come and keep me warm all while looking timelessly elegant.

Your favourite artisan in the world:

– Vincenzo Cuomo, because he serves as a great ambassador for a generation of younger and highly passionate tailors that already have a vast amount of experience. He is always kind and communicates well and has been visiting London regularly for many years now.

Your favourite mainstream brand:

– Loro Piana, because the brand has stayed true to itself compared to other high end luxury brands. Yes, they have become quite mainstream for some of their products but the high demand will fade when these things will still be timeless and the true fans of the brands will continue to buy them.

Your best repair or maintenance experience:

– All repairs made by “Schneider Atelier Alex” in Hamburg, Germany. Mr. Alex has 25+ years of experience working at Hermès and is the kindest person I have ever come across in tailoring. His level of passion is something else and he has crafted a number of beautiful individual bespoke pieces, all completely handmade, which goes totally under the radar and he would never brag about it. He always finds some compliments for pieces you bring to him and has a perfectly trained eye for any alterations he does.

Tab

Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why – LEJ. Like the wider cut shirts, the fabrics

Your favourite product you bought last year (still why) – LEJ Leather jacket. Was looking for a leather and this checks the box of slightly cropped, good leather, nice collar, and at a price I’m comfortable with

Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores) – not sure if drakes is considered mainstream since I’m not sure they have more than 10 stores but they’re definitely carried by more than 10 retailers

Alejandro Gutierrez

Favourite menswear brand in the world right now: 3sixteen. Excellent quality and superb foundation for a good, casual wardrobe. Also more affordable than most things posted on PS.
Favourite product bought last year: 3sixteen CT-100xk jeans. Second pair I’ve bought and lovely fit, though I did get the waist tailored.
Your favourite artisan in the world: La Manual Alpargatera. Discovered through PS, both the in-store experience and the espadrilles brought me great memories.
Your favourite mainstream brand: Massimo Dutti. Excellent basics at good prices, and quality has never failed me.
Your best repair or maintenance experience: I have been living in Asia and Europe for a couple years now, but I still exclusively use a tailor in Centro Comercial Interlomas in Mexico City called La Gran Puntada. They’ve done every pair of pants I own, and no matter if formal or casual, the result is always flawless. Worth waiting a few months between each visit, and helps me work on patience.

Other Aaron

Good point on massiamo dutti. I’d forgotten them.

Rupert

Anglo Italian. Lovely, soft tailoring that I can wear for both formal/informal occasions. Timeless design that’s unlikely to age. A super friendly team. I only wish they could make me a suede blazer!Used Edward Green Belgravia loafers from Ebay. Almost brand new. Came with box, shoe socks and EG shoe trees. £300. I’m still smiling…!Cerrato. Their trousers can err towards the narrow a bit too often, but I love all the little stitches and detailing that goes into the manufacture. Worth the money.I’ve pretty much moved away from larger brands. Does Ebay count?The Twins and Stitch at Pinnas & Needles. I have no hesitation in recommending them for all trouser and jacket alterations, including bespoke garments where just the thought of taking an expensive jacket apart might cause panic attacks. Have no fear; they work miracles. Always a treat to see Stitch the dog! 
A shout out also for PS’s shirts and William Crabtree’s knitwear which (like my Anglo Italian jackets and Cerrato trousers) have to endure the wear and tear of my work life in and around various aluminium foundries. The expedited patina just makes them all the more appealing! 

JSB

1. Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why
Rubato. Silly as this sounds, this is probably based on the frequency of website visits I make. I like their general lookbook and am a firm admirer of their knitwear, owning several pieces. The colour palette across their entire range of clothes is also great (albeit some interesting colours in 2024).

2. Your favourite product you bought last year (still why)
Probably my first piece from Good Art Hlywd, the Model 10A bracelet. Been looking at this for a long time and finally got it. Love it. Expensive, but feels quality. Should add that this is probably on par with my first Hermes scarf which is also lovely. A cashmere/silk mix, men’s 100cm x 100cm.

3. Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these).
Marco Cerrato bespoke trousers. Simple choice for me. I don’t have much made bespoke. But Cerrato have been consistently great in fit, make and good in price over several years.

4. Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores)
Probably Ralph Lauren.

5. Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever)
Haven’t had a lot of repair/maintenance but last years’ experience at The Valet (London) was good. So, I consider them worthy of a mention.

Jay

I’m still pretty new to the menswear world, and I’m still admiring my favorite brands and artisans from afar, so let me withhold answers to some of the categories. Maybe by next year I’ll have enough experience to give some good recommendations!
2. My Filson canvas tote bag. Previously, I would carry multiple small bags to work. This looked hectic; it was hectic. But now my tote is just the right size to carry everything I need – and ruggedly stylish to boot. It’s tough enough I don’t have the baby it, and the look and feel of the bridle leather make me smile. Gets compliments all the time too!
4. Uniqlo. We all must make embarrassing admissions from time to time, and this is mine: some of the best pieces I have come from Uniqlo. The dry hand, boxy fit, and beefy collar of the Uniqlo U cotton tees – delightful, I have six. The socks – the socks. And I’m unduly obsessed with the wide-fit Uniqlo U chinos: the fabric, the fit, the rise – everything about them. They’re so easy and comfortable too. Now if only they’d bring back Dark Brown 39 instead of unwearable Dark Brown 38…

Tamaki

Hey,

Just wanted to say there is nothing wrong with buying clothes from cheaper placês. Uniqlo is not even that cheap, and the quality is solid. Even if it was a very cheap place, not everyone has the expandable income to indulge in better clothes, and even who have the income doesn’t need to prioritize clothes.

The only moment where I position myself against cheaper clothes is when people expand a lot on cheaper clothes for environmental reasons.

Jay

Thanks, Tamaki. Don’t worry: I’m not judging myself (or anyone else!) for shopping on the cheap side. I will tease myself a little, though, just because I have some actually high-end pieces, and I often like those darn Uniqlo U chinos better.

Phil

Interesting thought exercise as I mostly really pick and choose rather than just sticking to one brand. My choice as the most authentic, consistent brand though would be S.E.H Kelly.

Travis W.

Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why – Besnard. Victor’s customer service is outstanding and his taste algins well with my style. I have purchased jackets, trousers, shirts, and ties from Besnard, and each product has been phenomenal.

Your favourite product you bought last year (still why) – Besnard MTO jacket in Drapers Opalis 75045. Besnard’s house style is very flattering, and the Drapers fabric is superb. The fabric is the perfect weight for the warmer climate I live in (Southern USA) while still having an excellent hand and pattern.

Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these) – St. Cripsins. Working with Phillip, Cristiana, and Emanuela has been a pleasure. They have been very accommodating in helping me find a great fit in shoes through virtual consultations.

Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores) – Ralph Lauren

Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever) – N/A

Matt

I’d second Victor’s customer service. I purchased a few items a few years ago that ended up not fitting and he was extremely helpful in helping me understand my size and help with overseas returns.

Fredrik

Saman Amel – great style, exceptional good fitting process and service, attention to details.  And the result is always fantastic! 
Black leather pants from Saint Laurent, very good quality, so far the only leather pants I found that looks good and goes with almost everything – Stupidly expensive YES… But people by overpriced Loro Piana stuff also!
I love my special made La Botte Gardiane slippers /moccasin in pony hair. Very well made and super comfortable. 
Hmm tricky one…I find most mainstream brand very boring, but Nike makes good stuff for training, I really like my Vaporfly Next% 3 for training and marathons. Piedaterre Venezia maybe don’t have 10 stores, but they are easy to order from and very decent priced for a very stylish and well-made product. 
The only one I use is Vivian Skräddare – the only one you need if you are in Stockholm. 

Oli

Favourite Menswear Brand: Drake’s
Drake’s is just one of those brands that nails the balance between being tailored and easygoing. Their stuff is super high quality without feeling overdone. I love how their clothes always have that slightly relaxed vibe while still looking polished—perfect for when you want to look sharp without feeling stiff.

Favorite Product I Bought Last Year: Sunspel x WM Brown Aran Roll Neck
This jumper is perfect. It’s warm, soft, and the chunky knit gives it a lot of character. The cropped fit is great for layering, and you can just tell it’s made to last. Plus, it’s one of those pieces that feels like a little bit of luxury every time you put it on.

Favourite Artisan: John Lobb St James’s Bespoke Pebble Grain Loafers
They have their reputation as the pinnacle for a reason. The loafers fit like a glove, and the pebble grain leather is beautiful. They’re understated but still made to the highest quality.

Favourite Mainstream Brand: Ralph Lauren (Purple Label and RRL)
Ralph Lauren is the OG. Purple Label is pure luxury—everything fits beautifully and feels incredible. RRL, on the other hand, is all about that rugged, vintage-inspired look, which I’m a big fan of. Between the two, they pretty much cover every vibe I’m going for.

Best Repair or Maintenance Experience: Bennett Winch
I had an issue with the handle on my Bennett Winch briefcase, and they just fixed it for free—no questions asked. That’s the kind of customer service that makes you stick with a brand. Their stuff is built to last, and they clearly stand behind it.

RP

-Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why:
Crockett and Jones. Picked up a pair of cordovan loafers (Harvard) and a pair of suede wingtip brogues (Westgate 2) recently. Outstanding quality and service plus price increases aren’t as absurd as comparable footwear brands.

Your favourite product you bought last year (still why):
Longine Master Moonphase (https://www.longines.com/en-gb/p/watch-longines-master-collection-moonphase-l2-409-4-78-3). The 34mm version sits perfectly on my skinny 6.5″ wrists. The marine chronometer design is perfectly executed and I’m also partial to a good moonphase complication.

Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these):
40 Colori in London (Bloomsbury). Had some sport coats (MTM) and knit ties made up. Fantastic quality, excellent and responsive service. Plus, they’re just great people to chat with!

Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores):
Uniqlo, for their non-synthetic knitwear. Their merino and old cashmere knits have held up tremendously well. Would’ve chosen Luca Faloni but their very steep price increases now makes gives them a hardly justifiable ROI.

Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever):
Tonys Heel Bar in London (Kentish Town). Had an old pair of Allen Edmonds brogues resoled with a change from leather to Dainite soles. Fast service and I love that they took the time to show me various options.

James Fettiplace

-Best brand: Anglo-Italian. The shopping experience is simply brilliant, great team and year after year Jake produces excellent stylish but completely wearable clothes
-Favourite product: bespoke Whitcombe & Shaftbury trousers and jacket
-Favourite Artisan: W&S
-Favourite brand: Lotus….but if it has to be clothing related, Edward Green
-Repair: Blackhorse Lane, have a pair of their jeans now into 6+ years with extensive childcare. Free repairs carried out brilliantly
As an aside, I note many have suggested Brycelands. I have to say, I do find the shop ‘very judgy’ (are you the right fit for us…etc), in the same vein as if you go to the high end fashion places on Bond St. Interestingly, I think Drake’s falls into this trap too. Very personal I know, but for me, simply not in the same league as AI, A&S and the other London shop featured extensively on here.

Victor Kernes

My favorite menswear brand in the world right now: Bryceland’s. They make everything that fits into classic Americana and the rugged ivy look I usually wear and strive for.My favorite product I bought last year: Bryceland’s 133S. The fit is exactly what I wanted in a new pair of denim, especially after moving away from more slimmer styles.My favorite artisan in the world: BillyKirk. They make some of my favorite leather accessories, particularly their sunglasses cases.My favorite mainstream brand: J.Crew and Buck Mason. They both offer items of decent quality at accessible price points. Not everything they make is for me, but the things I’ve bought or have been gifted are good enough.My best repair or maintenance experience: Self Edge in San Francisco, CA. I’ve used them to hem multiple pairs of selvedge denim jeans and they always come out great.

Rainer

1. The Anthology. I first became aware of The Anthology through their brilliant ‘Everyman Suits Collection’ campaign. Their approach is contemporary and classic in the best sense of the word.

2.A pair of brown Astorflex chukka boots in suede. My favourite shoes in (almost) every situation.

3. Nobody makes a double-breasted suit like Detlev Diehm in Munich. Unfortunately, I haven’t yet had the pleasure of seeing him in person or commissioning a piece myself, but I plan to in the near future. Again, contemporary-classic in the best sense, but in the highest league. Absolutely fascinating.

4. Uniqlo for its Airism vests and unbeatably cheap knitwear in good quality.

5. Years ago I bought a second hand tailor-made suit from master tailor Sven Jungclaus in Salzburg. It fitted well, but not very well. Now Thomas Netousek, bespoke tailor in Vienna, has altered it for me and I have been wearing it with great pleasure for many years to come.

Nick

Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now
Anglo Italian. Textile choices set them apart with a really cohesive, conservative color palette.
Your favourite product you bought last year.
Kaptain Sunshine Traveller coat in Navy Melton. Incredibly versatile, comfortable and warm. Wish I bought one sooner.
Your favourite artisan in the world
Seiji McCarthy. Will likely never own a pair but as an object they are beautiful to look at.
Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores)
Buck Mason. Accessible pricepoint, cool casualwear and a nice color palette. Also have had nothing but great in store experiences.
Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever)
Cowboy Shoe Repair on Broome St in NYC, multiple resoles on a few different loafers. Honorable mention to Barbour US for rewaxing my coat, came back great.

Gary Mc

Your favourite menswear brand: photo finish between Rubato and The Anthology. For both brands, the product quality is very high and variation across the ranges the most interesting of any other brands I purchase. Also, both their styling in lookbooks and social media very much appeal to my personal style preferences.
Your favourite product you bought last year: I acquired a pair of vintage, mid-blue Levi 501 jeans (90’s, Made in USA) earlier in the year from Holdwest. They fit perfectly, are very versatile and have become my go-to jeans. One of my lowest cost per wear purchases as well. As an added bonus, they came with a previous owner’s name written inside the waist with black marker pen which was a nice surprise!
Your favourite artisan in the world: The Anthology. I haven’t progressed to MTM or bespoke yet, but their RTW jackets fit wonderfully already, exceptional quality with really lovely detailing. Customer service is of the very highest standard as well.
Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores): Uniqlo for all the wee bits and pieces (i.e. underwear, socks, undershirts, etc).
Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever): it’s technically neither maintenance nor repairs but will give a shout out to Rego Bespoke in Toronto for being the only place in the city that I could find that would add button holes to sportscoat sleeves. And they did a super job too, with great customer service.

N.DRB

Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why
Mandelli Milano – Capsule Collection – Classic & Good Quality
Your favourite product you bought last year (still why)
Mandelli Coat – a year old but still looks good and no doubt it will last.
Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these)
Monsieur Xavier AUBERCY – second to none when it comes to well made shoes and a true connaisseur of fine living from menswear to fine dining etc. Not to mention the hospitality and the warm welcome extended by the AUBERCY Family once you walk in to this shoe emporium!
Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores)
Polo Ralph Lauren – for the past two years it has gotten back to its roots so happy to see the classics again.
Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever)
Terzi Nesim – Bebek / Istanbul – Turkey

Hristo

Favourite product: Some Cashmerello shirt fabrics from Alumo. Because the fabric plays a huge role in if a shirt will become a favourite to wear or not and I really enjoyed the Cashmerello fabrics.
Favourite artisan: Michael Browne. Because of his style. Usually I don’t like single breasted jackets, but he does such amazing 70s inspired pieces, that I would like to acquire some. Basically he is the only tailor in the World that I would ask for a single breasted jacket. For double breasted jackets there are other good options as well. For single breasted, he is my choice. https://www.instagram.com/michaelbrowne_eu/p/CoU0lAJsnTe/

M

Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now: Bryceland’s – Their overall style and focus on details. Interesting materials, retro vibes without feeling like a costume.

Your favourite product you bought last year: Cartier Tank – A dream watch that just doesn’t go out of style and will hopefully stay with me until the very end. 😀

Your favourite mainstream brand: Ralph Lauren – Mainly RRL where you can get some really cool pieces but the overall style and identity just stays consistent and it’s always a pleasure to visit the shops.

MGBJ

Menswear brand: Private White – materials, quality finishing, thoughtful design mix of style & function
Favourite product: PS/PWVC Linen Harrington Art du Lin – incredible texture, ridiculous, love it
Favourite mainstream brand: Ralph Lauren – hardly ever buy but great style inspiration incl. for home
Best repair or maintenance: PWVC, Crockett & Jones, Blackhorse Lane

SG

1. Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why
Answer: Real McCoys. Quality of the product and cut. As someone who is shorter I find the cut of shirts and sweaters suits my proportions well.

2. Your favourite product you bought last year (still why). Mercer and Sons Oxford Cloth button down. I had to have some significant alterations made but the cloth and the button down cut are excellent. Looking at the shirt on the hanger I thought it wouldn’t quite work but I was surprised. The shirt works so well and I’m still trying to put my finger on why.

3. Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these) Michels Bespoke. They’ve made me an excellent button down shirt (great fit, nice high armhole) and high rise flannel trousers.
Bespoke trousers (charcoal flannel from Huddersfield Fine Worsted) from Michels Bespoke. The fit, higher rise trouser is very flattering to balance out my short legs, and of course a quality flannel for all the reasons PS/Simon has mentioned

3. Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores)
Simons. Yes, I picked a place that shares a name with SC but here me out. Very cool department store (12 ish locations) with a range of economic house brand and designer options. Lots of natural fabrics and good buyers for the company. When in Montreal last year I had the pleasure of checking out a downtown store. On a Friday evening, this particular store was jammed full of folks in their 20s shopping. I rarely see other department stores that busy, let alone with that demographic, I was blown away.

4. Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever).
There’s a place I go to down the street that does consistently solid work. I take many items there for general alterations and repairs (not bespoke). Fair prices, timely work, been a patron there for years. I’m happy to provide the name but I’d suggest a general shout out to these small mom and pop type shops that I’d imagine many of us use – the folks grinding away helping us dress well.

shahin

favorite brand: Anglo-Italian, why: quality, price, and customer service
favorite product: Soar Running: running gears. why: quality, racing technology, and modern coloring and graphic design
favorite Artisan: Don’t have
favorite mainstream brand: Still JCREW. Price, and classic design
favorite repair: Alden resoling and repair: quality, and service

David

Shoes :- I think Loake are are great value and well made probably half the price of C&J . I love Ralph Lauren style but don’t wear anything with the pony logo anymore ( took me years to clear out my wardrobe of anything with the logo on it ) . Plus the prices are crazy saw a gillet for £340 the other day similar one at Uniglo £55 . I really think half the fun is getting the look you want but not paying top dollar.

Richard W

Hi Simon,
Here are my thoughts;
Favourite menswear brand in the world right now: A&S Haberdashery. The breadth of products, their knitwear being irresistible.
Favourite product you bought last year: A&S Haberdashery 4 button shawl collar cardigan in dark green. Perfect for those cold days at the desk or lounging in a corner reading a book.
Favourite artisan in the world: Whitcomb & Shaftesbury. Beautiful tailoring delivered at a reasonable price by a wonderful, friendly team.
Favourite mainstream brand: John Smedley. Their Noah polo shirts are a firm favourite.
Best repair or maintenance experience: The Valet, Piccadilly Arcade. My go to place for a steam press of tailoring and they did a wonderful job in altering a pair of trousers in the waist and smoothing the shape of the legs.

I look forward to seeing the final results.

Richard

Favourite brand- in the last twelve months, I’ve got to say Brycelands. Every item I have bought from them simply makes me happy whenever I wear them.
Fav product- Also my most worn item, dark indigo Rubato jeans. Wearing these has finally convinced me that some clothes genuinely do look better, the harder you wear them. Much like my PS Wax Walker!
Fav mainstream brand- I’m struggling! On (gymwear)
Best repair…Not sure if they are still going but a few years ago had an exceptional experience with The Jaunty Flaneur.
A category that I’m sure you’ve covered in the past but not this time, best customer experience is without any shadow of a doubt Anglo Italian. Fantastic staff that have got a pretty wonderful habit of making you want to stay in the shop all day!

Jason H

1/ I don’t really have a favorite brand

2 / Jadd Desert Boots.
Beautifully made in the uk, sturdy, great materials.
I only got them as a substitute for Trainers, but ended up wearing them virtually the whole summer. Just a Joy to wear.

3/ Luca Faloni. The shirts and crew neck jumpers just seem to fit me perfectly, and reasonable value

4/ I didn’t have anything repaired.

James FD

Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why

Bryceland – simultaneously classic and contemporary. Every product designed and constructed to last and to age well. The team in the London shop are second to none.

Your favourite product you bought last year

Bryceland navy RAF roll neck sweater – soft geelong, flattering in its cut, well made, reasonably priced. (Ended up getting 4 colours in total but the navy is getting the most use)

Your favourite artisan in the world

Carreducker – I did a course to make a bridal leather black belt with brass fixtures. Great knowledge, ethical sourcing of components, quality materials, friendly customer facing service. I’ll be back for some bespoke shoes (or more probably boots) at some point (not strictly an artisan purchase, though, or have I just inadvertently voted for myself?)

Your favourite mainstream brand
Uniqlo for socks. (winner). M&S (for boxers – runner up)

Best repair or maintenance

I’ve had many good experiences this year (Michael Norman repairing a velvet collar for an overcoat, Pinnas & Needles repairing a vintage Eddie Bauer Skyliner, Gaziano & Girling maintaining and improving a range of my shoes), Cromford Leather repairing a vintage AN-J3 bomber with new knits and elastic, but the actual winner is, surprisingly, Patagonia. Unbelievably, they took a quilted coat that I purchased 18 years ago, with no proof of purchase, they paid the postage to send it to them, they repaired 2 tears and a large sleeve rip, almost unnoticeable repair panels, they then paid for the return postage and the repairs itself were free. I know it’s good PR for them but, still, a lot of people talk about sustainability in fashion but that’s walking the walk.

James FD

If amendments are allowed then I’ve had more time to think about mainstream brand. I’d have to say Dan Henry Watches. Great price for what you get. Fantastic designs. Good customer service in my experience. A good cost effective alternate watch for when you don’t want to wear a vintage or expensive timepiece. I find I wear their 1970 super compressor style at the weekend with Jeans which I don’t mind if it gets knocked about playing with the children. The straps are great too. The quick release feature on all of them makes it easy to change up the style – useful when travelling and space is a premium.

K

Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why
Drake’s. Still my go-to for most everything except denim. No one makes better (or at least consistently exciting) RTW outerwear, and their look books and social media still consistently offer plenty of inspiration. I love their shirts (especially the various chambrays they release), knitwear, and of course their unparalleled accessories.
Your favourite product you bought last year (still why)

A four-way tie:
The insanely heavy “Lovat’s Keeper’s Tweed” raglan coat from Drake’s. My current favorite cold-weather coat. It drapes beautifully, fits over everything, and looks good no matter what else I’m wearing.
A MTM single-breasted Waverly suit in charcoal grey Harrison’s Spring Ram from J. Mueser. The fit is spot on, the texture of the cloth is fantastic, the trousers are unexpectedly versatile on their own, and I love the lapels, which are slightly wider than I expected, as well as the gorge, which is on the lower side.
The PS Japanese denim shirt. I expected this shirt to be nice, but I didn’t expect to wear it twice a week for the better part of the year. I think the best garments are the ones that push you out of your comfort zone a little and the long point collar on this shirt did that. All of the PS shirts have perfect collars.
Anglo-Italian ecru denim jeans. The rise and fit are perfect on me with almost no alterations. No dippy embroidery or other embellishments on the pockets, and minimal branding elsewhere. Pockets placed correctly and perfectly sized. Too many almost-perfect jeans are spoiled by oversized rear pockets. A perfect pair of smart denim, I wore them more than any other trousers.
Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these)

Fred Nieddu/Taillour. I love the brand’s taste level, detailing and the overall customer experience. Looking forward to seeing progress on a jacket I commissioned later this winter.
Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores)

Like many others, it’s Ralph Lauren, I guess? I bought some vintage Polo pieces this year that are great. Also vintage LL Bean. I really like what Buck Mason are trying to do, but the few things I’ve tried haven’t quite worked for me in terms of fit and detailing.
Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever)

Alden Restoration: I’ve sent a few well-worn favorite pairs in for care and they come back looking nearly new, with complimentary shoe trees and bags. You’ll fall in love with your Aldens all over again. But caveat emptor: if your shoes are really thrashed it’s worth contacting them to make sure they can work on them before you send them in. I had a pair of old, battered (and much loved) LHS loafers in snuff suede that I sent in and received a letter in the mail that they were beyond repair. They didn’t return the shoes to me, just refunded my money for the service. Kind of a pity as I would have continued to wear them around the house, at least.

Jose

1. Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now

I will have to go with The Anthology. Their entire collection is great. I particularly like their new Goodman jacket and wide trousers, and their t-shirts, but every single thing they sell, I would wear.

Also special mention to The Real McCoys. Every item of theirs just feels special.

2. Your favourite product you bought last year

I can’t choose one so I will give you three: De Bonne Facture’s Grandad coat, Kapital’s long Ring coat, and a pair of roper boots from Tecovas. The coats because long coats are great and I love wearing either of them, depending on the rest of my wardrobe. The roper boots I ended up liking a lot more than I thought I would, and have become my favorite boots.

3. Your favourite artisan in the world

I don’t know that I have one, but I appreciate the craft that goes into 11.11’s products.

4. Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores)

Probably Todd Snyder. Was my go-to when I was starting my wardrobe. Now that I look for more specific items I usually go to other more niche brands, but I still wear all of my TS clothes a lot.

5. Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever)

I managed to get a huge tear on the side of a suede jacket of mine. After a recommendation from the brand I bought the jacket from, I shipped it to the folks at Arrow Leathercare Services in Kansas City and they did a fantastic job. It is impossible to see that any repair was made. They managed to match the fabric and color to absolute perfection. I was impressed.

Johnny Foreigner

My favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why:Arktis, because their motto “quality of endurance” is factually correct. They are worth every penny, and they reasonably priced.
My favourite product you bought last year (still why): A bespoke three-piece POW check. I commissioned it before a tragic life event, and took delivery a few months later. It straddles tragedy. I suppose it reminds me that life goes on.
My favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these): My tailor Francesco Vuoto. Because his creations have given me joy. And God knows I need it these days. He knows my tastes and he knows my physiognomy. He has good taste himself. And he’s a brilliant cutter. That, to me, is all a tailor should be.
Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores): If I’m honest, Marks & Spencer. They’re very fairly priced, and they’ve maintained the kind of aspirational aesthetic that used to be standard in Britain. They don’t pretend to be something they’re not. They are still the best brand for that most essential staples: underwear. I never was a fashionista and I don’t like brands that talk down to me. M&S do not.
Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever): Shoe repair at Cordonnerie Les Deux Lutins in Paris. I took a pair of shoes for repair during the first or second French lockdown, and owner Didier Martinez wept when he told me how peole had stopped wearing leather shoes once they were locked in their homes. I hope he’s still in business, and I hope he thrives. He deserves a Légion d’Honneur.

Jay

“It straddles tragedy.”
That’s honestly moving. Thank you for sharing.

Lucas Nicholson

Great shout out to Arktis, one of my favourite coats (smocks) – unbelievable value!

Nick

1. Crockett & Jones. I have settled a last that works for me and still find C&J great value for money; classic designs and well made.
2. A navy blazer I commissioned in Holland & Sherry “Airesco” cloth. I took a bit of a gamble on the cloth as I couldn’t find much written about it, but it has performed very well in the hot and humid Sydney summer, and needless to say works with many outfits – I can’t stop wearing it!
3. A tie: Terry Gasson Tailors in Adelaide, and Marbo Shirt in Sydney. Both single operator businesses that make me solid, reliable, and consistent garments. And of course one of the joys of bespoke is the relationship you develop with the artisans over time.
4. Ralph Lauren. I don’t buy much, but I have always loved the aesthetic.
5. Elite Shoe Repairs in Sydney. Adept in bringing shoes back from the dead and making them better than new.

Alexander

Interesting comparing this to the one you did two years ago, to see how the readership has evolved in some instances and hasn’t in other respects.

Randy Ventgen

1-Favorite Brand: None; at this point my purchases are often replacements, from a very long list of companies I’ve favored. I enjoy the bespoke I have from Poole, Budd and Lobb Ltd.
2-Favorite product from last year: William Henry pocket knife and desk accessories from Choosing Keeping.
3-Favorite artisan: John Lobb Ltd St James.
4-Favorite large brand: None-see 1 above.
5-Best repair: Hermes for a Ipad leather cover that needed cleaning.

Dmytro V

1. Cavour – very affordable and best quality tailoring with a lot of hand work at this price point. Also beautiful cut and fits me really well OTR.

2. A pair of light blue jeans, because I wear them very often and it’s always a safe choice when I am lazy and don’t want to think about what to wear

3. Antonio Meccariell, because his shoes are extremely sexy and I can actually buy them, unlike the shoes from Yohei Fukuda

4. Suitsupply, because they are available in plenty of countries, have alterations tailors at their stores with turn around time from 30 min to 3 days max.

5. Any time I restore my or my girlfriend’s winter beater boots made out of a smooth leather. With a bit of time, love and shoe care products they become almost like new. It amazes and excites me every time

Caleb c

1. Rubato- customer service, excellent products, and flat lay styling is excellent
2. J. Mueser made jacket from a linen I bought years earlier. Fit is great and the process was enjoyable.
3. Viberg boots if they qualify but Fab Gorjian if you need something more niche. My wife and I have a whole room designed around his pieces
4. Ralph Lauren, nike, or Track smith . First places I go to see if there is a “good enough” out there
5. My local cobbler put a rubber sole on a pair of sagans I had been neglecting and turned them into a part of the regular rotation

Glenn

Thanks Simon, love this !

1) John Smedley for knitwear and polos. Drake’s for shirts and ties.
2) A green parka from Sandro. Tragically reliving my misspent 90s youth (it’s also incredibly warm !)
3) George Cleverley shoes. Built to last.
4) J. Crew for preppy basics, although the quality has declined in recent years.
5) Pinnas and Needles, Soho

Felix

1. Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why
Gaziano & Girling. Their shoes have the perfect balance between simplicity, elegance, and longevity. No outfit is complete without a proper pair of shoes.

2. Your favourite product you bought last year (still why)
A Fujifilm X-H2 camera. It’s not related to menswear, but it has helped reinvigorate my hobby in photography. It reminded me to look at the works in a different way, in a slower and more methodical way, and to savor moments instead of going from meeting-to-meeting and task-to-task. It also helps that extra walking I’m doing is helping me stay in the same menswear sizes.

3. Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these)
Divij Hemrajani, a tailor based in Los Angeles and with a workshop in Hong Kong. Permanent Style often highlights the importance of building long term relationships with artisans. I see Simon’s point. I’ve been able to do so with Divij and overtime the outcomes have been better and better. Also having the workshop in Hong Kong has made the pricing much more accessible for me.

4. Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores)
Uniqlo. Perhaps controversial, but the quality at their price range is hard to beat.

5. Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever)
I don’t have one single experience that sticks out. But Eric Boasmond, my former alterations tailor in Chicago, has been such wonderful mentor. I’ve always appreciated his honesty—suggesting when something didn’t need to be done and losing work. As a tip: Chris Despos, a tailor in Chicago, suggested sprinkling baby powder on oil stains on jackets and trousers, leaving it overnight, and brushing it off. This has saved me countless trips to the dry cleaner, extending the lives of my garments.

Nils-Åke

Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why:
Renacts. Run by a nice group of boys from South Korea. Very friendly and polite when I was last there. Their goal is to capture that Americana ivy flair we all have tried to copy, but for a modern age. I think what I like the most is that they are so young, my age, and they’ve got that viggor that makes the whole experience exciting. It is like when you see a new band or stand up, you just sort of know they are something talented, but a bit wild.

Your favourite product you bought last year (still why)
A MontBlanc 149. A fountain pen that has elevated my sense of prossionalism. It isn’t my first mont blanc, but it is my first fountain pen. The screw on cap makes it ideal for travel. I never feel shy using it, and it has become my only “travel” pen. It rests in my overcoat pocket whenever I am on the move, ready for use,

Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these)
F E Castleberry. I am yet to purchase anything from them, as of yet, but Fred has created a fun and creative world of artisan products. His news letter is also a good bit of fun!

Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores)
John Henrc.. An affordable Luxury brand I can’t help feeling a bit of loyalty towards. They’ve expanded my bowtie and cravat collection greatly, they’re tailoring is a welcome addition to their knitwear line and there just is something about being a Swede and buying Swedish things.

Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever)
A pair of leather Oxfords. During my first internship in London I was making less than a pound per hour. There were days when I had to prioritise dry cleaning or the Oyster card over food. More than once I made a 1h walk home, often next to a freeway, in my suit and Leather oxfords. By the time the internship was done those shoes were destroyed. My toe sticking out from the sides and holes across the soles. Returning home I was sure they didnt have any life left in them, but the local shoe maker proved me wrong. The repair was remarkable. Brand new and was in good use once more.

Eugene

Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now: Inis Meain. I love the variety of knits they offer. Different knitting patterns, shapes, colors, yarns. Some are traditional fisherman sweaters, but many are dressier. Others are spring/summer weight linen. Your favourite product you bought last year: Frank Clegg small travel duffle in antique chevre w chocolate handles. Such a luxurious product, but also robust. Perfect size for an overnight or a summer weekend. Your favourite artisan in the world Theodoros Pampoukas, Thedi LeathersYour favourite mainstream brand: Edward GreenYour best repair or maintenance experience: Burdeen’s Chicago for my IWC Ingenieur 3521 chronometer.

Garrett

Inis Meain is My favorite menswear brand, their knitwear is immaculate and I have a deep love for their linen knits on a summer night or cool spring day. I also love that my money spent on their goods directly impacts the small island of Inis Meain in a very positive way, being able to participate in the financial health of their community brings me great satisfaction.

My favorite product would be the 18 East Lamar overcoat, the silhouette is so fun and the fabric/construction is impeccable for being under $800 USD. I thoroughly enjoy their products, you can tell how much Antonio loves what he’s doing and the fun he’s having.

My favorite artisan, I’m actually going to say an artist. Roberto Ferri paints in a way highly inspired by Italian Baroque and his work is beautiful, I’d love to own a piece someday.

Buck mason makes my favorite t shirt and I’ll happily buy their graduate blazer the second they make it in a US46

There’s a wonderful woman who tailors for the Claymore Shop in Birmingham, she’s an older Albanian woman and a delight to work with, just expect her to tell you exactly what she thinks of your taste. I’ve always been satisfied with her work.

Lachlan

Front Office – A single store in Melbourne who make sustainable casual wear. Have watched them grow from a meme on Twitter, to a fake sportswear brand to a serious menswear store. Representing a shift to dad life, a rugby top from 3 Wise Men in New Zealand or a pair of Patagonia baggy shorts. Brad Ottens Furniture, former footballer who makes some of the most beautiful tables in his second life. RM Williams, just really nice boots and a growing collection of nice casual clothing. Having one of the oldest suits I own repaired where it had worn through. Giving a second life to clothing almost a decade old always feels good.

Ryotaro

Favorite brand: Bryceland’s. Always impressed by how seamlessly they blend tailoring and Ivy/workwear/military/western. Many of their products are a bit “directional” for me, but that’s also why I love them. Ethan and crew have a clear vision and present it well, eg their recent lookbooks. Similar to RL in that regard.

Favorite product: Ortus briefcase (photo attached). The design is original without being overly unusual, and the craftsmanship is just exquisite. Komatsu-san is very soft-spoken but any interaction with him makes his passion for the work obvious. I wanted a slightly darker brown and finer grain than what he had on hand, and he very kindly sourced new leather to accommodate the request, which makes me love the bag even more. Well worth the 2.5-year (!) wait.

Favorite artisan: Sartoria Corcos. This and the previous category are interchangeable for me, but I’ll put Corcos here since I’ve had multiple things made by them. Many reasons to recommend them – the understated Florentine cut, level of make, price. But what I appreciate most is Miyahira-san’s taste. His cloth collection is beautifully evocative of the Tuscan landscape, and choices on details like buttons and linings are always on point. I would honestly wear everything on their Instagram, which I don’t think I could say about any other tailor.

Favorite mainstream brand: Kamakura. Affordable source of solidly-made staple OCBDs. I especially like the Vintage Ivy line they do with author Graham Marsh.

Best repair/maintenance: Sarto (alterations tailor in Tokyo) and Union Works (shoe repairs, also Tokyo). Not inexpensive but the work is good. Honorable mention to Blackhorse Lane for offering free repairs, though I’ve never taken them up on it.

Ryotaro

Sigh forgot to add the photo…

IMG_1329
Deepto

Your favourite menswear brand:

Savas – an incredible new approach to leather jackets and extraordinarily friendly syaff. I have the Lowry in Pacific, it’s as light and easy to wear as a light shirt. I have not seen anything comparable in menswear.

Adret – what to say? There’s just something so different about their work – you’re instantly on holiday. And yes, the loveliest Instagram page on all internet.

Merz B Schwanen – Tshirts. That you wear like an armour.

Your favourite product you bought last year (still why):

1. Zegna bespoke green suede field coat. It’s the single most incredibly luxurious clothing I’ve ever owned.

2. PS Coach jacket – it’s versatile and incredibly comfortable.

Your favourite artisan in the world:
1. FP Journe.

2. Nigel Cabourn. How can winterwear be so luxurious to wear.

Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores):
Zegna

Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever):
Metier. My bag sprung a chain issue. They were brilliant at getting it repaired.

Jonathan

Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why: Drakes – love their styling, detail and quality
Your favourite product you bought last year: JM Weston 180 in caviar leather – incredibly versatile shoe I wear in myriad situations with exquisite craftmanship
Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these): Boncoura – striving to make the absolute best version of classic casual wear without being prisoner to historical accuracy
Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores): Uniqlo – still make the best t shirt for the money and fine knit merinos double as great natural baselayers
Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever): Unsung house in Nashville resoled several shoes and boots leaving them looking better than new

Raja

Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why
Battistoni Roma, Just timeless elegance.. last of a dying breed, Tailoring and RTW.
Your favourite product you bought last year (still why)
Blue suede bomber jacket from Battistoni – Perfect fit, you can feel the quality will last forever.
Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these)
Metier, beautiful leather bags and accessories .
Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores)
Sunspel for t-shirts and knits.
Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever)
I take pride in taking good care of my clothes. No major repairs yet needed for my items. We have very good tailoring or alteration houses in the UAE.

Alfonso

Buenos días.

1. Mi firma favorita es MAN 1924. Lo es…, porque dura y envejece estupendamente. Desde una bufanda…, hasta una bermuda, desde un traje de color azul marino…, hasta un jersey, desde una corbata…, hasta una camisa de vestir…

2. Un Rolex Submariner (referencia 124060). Desde niño he querido uno…, y en marzo del año pasado lo conseguí.

3. Campera Salmantina. Me llevan haciendo botas de montar desde hace décadas…
Una vez hasta me hicieron unas chaparreras basándose en un boceto que dibujé.

4. Timberland. Por los náuticos que suelo usar casi a diario. Zapato casi indestructible…

5. La reparación de la Barbour de mi padre que heredé hace quince años…
Todo el mérito es de mi costurera.

Un saludo.

Dario

Favourite menswear brand right now: It has to be Cavour, I bought the first suit from them last summer and now I have four.
Favourite product bought last year: a mustard(ish) medallion tie from The Urban Ties – wasn’t very convinced when I bought it but it ended up being one of the most versatile.
Favourite artisan in the world: I don’t really buy in the “artisan” category,
Favourite mainstream brand: Suitsupply
Favourite repair experience: Anything Teaterskomageren (cobbler) in Copenhagen has done for me. I was also pretty happy when I tried the factory repair from Crockett and Jones.

Michel

Kigget Clothing. Best mtm experience so far
Barbour Ashby jacket
Sartoria Silvano
Andersen Andersen – great, chunky knitwear, that lasts.
Peter Unden. Peter was able to help me fix some trousers after gaining weight.

Stephen

1. Favourite brand is still The Real McCoys. The quality and the attention to detail is outstanding in the area of ‘casual clothing’. Since retiring they have been my ‘go to’ brand and whilst a tendency to be relatively expensive (although not by comparison to designer brands) and the longevity make for a good considered purchase. Similar to a good brand of car they also have a high resale value on eBay.
2. My favourite product last year was a Crescent Down Works down vest. (Yes I know it’s not Real McCoys!). They had particular the colour (a light burgundy ) I wanted and is perfect for a specific purpose. The price point is very good and ideal for something that will get some hard ware. A brand discovered through PS. Purchased in American Classics in Soho London.
3. I don’t really have a favourite artisan as I tend to buy the item I want rather than favouring a specific artisan
4 Mainstream brand has to be Uniqlo. Some nice pieces with Japanese and Americana feel and look to them at an excellent price point. Their cashmere I would suggest merits a call out, as a value for money option ( as so to does Marks and Spencer UK). Uniqlo provides some useful options to contain the price of an overall look.
Can I also mention Belstaff, I know not the most popular brand on PS, but they do offer a specific look and some pieces that age well and are my personal preference over Barbour for wearing in town.
5. This has to my the artisan in local dry cleaner (turns out I do have one!) . Always used him. The repairs and insight are always welcome and on the mark.
All the best

Alex

1. Got to be LEJ for me as they are the clothes I wear the most. Best denim cut I have ever owned and the come up to the studio shirt cut is a joyous casual wear, makes you feel billowy and chic

2. A pair of wide chinos from Margaret Howell. Not a very #menswear brand but the colours, fabrics and the flow of the fits are just excellent. Good for cosplaying as a moody and extraordinarily wealthy artist

3. Hmmm, i’m going to vote for Bielby’s for the dedication to making straightforward but quality product the old fashioned way and at a reasonable price. If that isn’t artisan i don’t know what is

4. Margaret howell only has 8 stores so just misses the definition… so i’m going to go for marks and spencers for the best underwear option. Vintage st michael on ebay is also a real treat sometimes.

5. Garment studio in peckham have done excellent casual wear alterations for me many times. Kipper and chalk in pimlico for great work on some rtw tailoring. Finally shout out to my mum for her excellent darning of sweaters, still, after 40 odd years.

Stephen

Agree M&S underwear and also socks. They also have the odd item of their branded clothing that works and lasts well at a reasonable value for money price. Eg knitwear. Often overlooked!

Alex

Also to add Lemaire into the mainstream section – OK so the products aren’t particularly mainstream although they are stocked worldwide at a lot of places. But Christophe’s U line at Uniqlo is often their best stuff IMO. One of the ‘big’ high fashion names with a coherent vision that works well with more classic menswear yet stands apart too

Pickford

1.Folk clothing. Unlike most PS readers I don’t really buy any of the brands discussed on PS, I enjoy reading the articles and have a real interest in high quality tailoring but it is not something I wear. The brands I buy tend to be for everyday casual wear. Folk just reflects the clothing I enjoy wearing, and is in keeping with my style. They offer a really interesting range of clothing in various cuts, colours and textures. I always find the quality of textiles and the construction and finish is really high and at a price that is not excessive.

2.I bought a used air of TLB Artista Oxford’s off Marrkt. I was particularly impressed by the quality and fit (very comfortable for someone who generally finds formal shoes uncomfortable). The shaping/profile of the shoe and slim heel seems to be of a quality that exceeds the price point (even at full price).

4.Karhu. I am slightly obsessed with Karhu trainers. They fit me perfectly and the construction is far beyond any other commercial trainer/sneaker in my opinion. The details and contrast in materials and colour when you see them is really interesting and they are so comfortable you don’t even notice them.

5.As a long term cyclist, Rapha and Albion are two companies that really excel. They offer free repairs on most of their kit. They arrange for you to send them the items, repair them to a standard like new and return them with a handwritten repair note in a fresh cotton musette. The care and consideration for a product of theirs is clear and shows that they value their customers.

Lukasz

Brand: 100 hands. Finamore, Borriello and Mazzarelli make great shirts, but only 100 hands can nail the fit for me. If you don’t buy MTM, most RTW shirts in my experience are either “athletic” or “overweight”, few are for those who are neither. Runner up: Cavour, but only on sale, otherwise somewhat overpriced; great loyalty programme, too.
Product: tie between Mazzarelli bottle-green overshirt from Reda wool and 100 hands white OCBD for Wirschke.
Artisan: I’ve yet to verify if Nordic EDC leather products meet my (high) expectations, but the pre- and post-purchase consultation process has been second to none.
Retailer: Iron Heart (no stores that I know of, but more than 10 stockists) – for manufacturing, as they themselves say, not what objectively sells best, but what they and their loyal customers like best. Stellar customer service.
Repair: the leather on my new Vass shoes turned out to be less water resistant than one might expect. That was certainly not Vass’ fault, but they bit the bullet and… made me new shoes at their expense. The replacement pair had no such flaw and works great.

Vince B

Based on things recently bought off the rack that I am very happy with – Cordings (country shirts, trousers), Campbell’s of Beauly (shooting sweater), William Lockie (shawl cardigan), British Boxers, and, a recent discovery, Ratcatcher Tweed Yorkshire – fabulous, top quality moleskin. Artisans/maintenance – Whitcomb and Shaftesbury – really great team, expert bespoke and a reasonable price point, and very good alterations on some of my more ancient pieces. The best shoes you will ever buy are from Edward Green

David

Favourite Brand: Anglo Italian – consummate good taste accompanied by impeccable service.
Favourite Product: A&S – Tobacco linen jacket no.2.I replaced my worn out original. Unbeatable!
Favourite Artisan: Pankhurst Barbers – the haircut elevated to the art form as practiced by Jo.
Favourite Mainstream Brand: Loro Piana – their storm system baseball cap is indispensable.
Best Repair /Maintenance Experience : ‘Stitched In Time’, Farnham – Krystal can fix it !

Benjamin Jones

A. Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why:
Casatlantic (the high wasted style at a price I can afford) closely followed by Natalino for similar reasons
B. Your favourite product you bought last year (still why):
A Blue Mogganer North Sea Chunky 4 Ply Shetland in burgundy. Love the colour and its volume. Always a joy to wear.
C. Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these):
My budget rarely runs to artisans but I have had ties made to order and my specification by Sam Hober and was very happy with the results.
D. Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores):
Uniqlo. Their socks, their Tees, their marino wool turtle neck and round necks.
E. Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever):
A Hulme repaired a pair of RM Williams, which are now 20 years old and could go on for another 20.

Michael from Connecticut

Simon…Hard not to renominate Charlie Borrow. Outstanding quality, real craftsmanship, not to mention all delivered by a really cool and committed guy.

howie

Note: all second choices after PS. My selections are heavily influenced by my reading of PS.

Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why. Sunspel relaxed XXL T-shirts because of sizing, quality, price and fit. And they look great with my PS overshirts.

Your favourite product you bought last year (still why). Vintage Levi’s. Thanks, PS.

Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these) Private White V.C. Sweaters are fairly-priced and easy to pair with a variety of pants.

Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores). Ralph since I don’t know of any others. Guessing eBay online vintage doesn’t count.

Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever). Mes Chaussettes Rouges. How can anyone top personalized, handwritten, perfumed, numbered (Thank you for your second order, etc.) service like this? Reminder: warn your spouse in advance about the perfumed package you’re about to receive. 

Alvin S

Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why
S.E.H Kelly. In my ready-to-wear selection criteria, I seek some Extravagance—something especially elegant, subtle to the layperson’s eye, but a fascination to the sartorial enthusiast. While I’m not interested in their shirts, due to the cut, the detailing of S.E.H Kelly’s jackets, coats, and knits very consistently catch my eye. And as you said Simon, the fabrics are so good I could eat them. Other notable mentions were The Armoury, Wythe, Prologue, and the Anthology.
Your favourite product you bought last year (still why)
A matte grey corduroy Chore Jacket+Trouser “suit” from Prologue. On Fabric: I prefer rougher, meatier cord over the soft, flowy kind. The piece’s texture and ‘chalky’ appearance struck me especially once it’d been made. On Styling: for occasions it’d be inappropriate to wear a tailored suit, I’m always trying to develop ways to wear a “suit” while dodging the pejorative judgment of “hmm, he’s wearing a suit.” The jacket’s collar flares substantially for a statement, but also causes the placket to simulate a “lapel roll.” Essentially, the piece hit a very difficult versatility band, and makes me very happy to wear. I appreciate their tailoring, with an eye to relaxed formality.
Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these)
Sam Goates from Woven in the Bone. Her cloth is to die for. Any product made from her cloth is quickly elevated in my eyes.
Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores)
Probably Ralph Lauren, due almost exclusively to their Purple Label and RRL. I buy from them infrequently, as I struggle to justify the price. However, for mainstream brands, I appreciate that their styling impacts many. I find myself strolling through their stores, just to see the new products and mannequins, and always find a beautiful oddity.
Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever)
While I appreciate this question’s inclusion, I don’t frequently need things mended; when I do I try to mend them myself on the weekends, so I have no good answer.

Rogey

BRANDS: AngloItalian. The perfect balance of quality, style, value, and customer service. I have their trousers in every cloth, corduroy, cotton, flannel, cavalry twill, linen, denim. Alden. Comfort, quality, and style. My Aldens, in different styles, get worn over and over again and just get nicer with time. Anderson and Sheppard. Beautiful stuff. Even though I don’t need anything, I always walk out of there armed with accessories, knitwear, and socks. Fox Brothers cloth. I have two jackets made of cloth from their tweed book. Beautiful hand, interesting patterns and colors. The Armoury, because of the stuff discussed in the next section.
PRODUCT: I got a single breasted knitted jacket, in navy, from Anderson and Sheppard. Versatile, stylish. It gives me pleasure every time I put it on. Two bespoke jackets from Meyer and Mortimer in London: a dark navy jacket in Caccioppoli cotton, patch pockets, and a russet brown plaid jacket made of cloth from the Fox tweed book. A made to order jacket, from the Armoury in New York, by Ring Jacket. This was an experiment; I usually get bespoke jackets. Mr. Sasamoto and Mr. Tani (I hope I have their names right) were terrific. One spoke some English, the other none, though they brought a translator. They made me a patch pocket jacket in a wool-linen mix from Marling and Evans. They wanted me to return to New York to have the sleeves fitted. I insisted that the jacket would have to be made in one go, that I was not going to return to New York. Mr. Tani, who spoke no English, showed great disappointment in his face, but surgically took detailed measurements, and also took measurements from the bespoke jacket I’d worn in. The jacket arrived in two months, absolutely perfect, a featherweight and beautiful jacket as nice as any bespoke jacket. Kudos also to Dan, from the Armoury, who also guided the process. A dark grey silk tie, also from the Armoury, by Tie Your Tie, a tie so nice that when I was wearing it in London, Jake Grantham of AngloItalian took pictures of it. It goes with everything.
ARTISANS: Meyer and Mortimer, Ring Jacket.
MAINSTREAM BRAND: Patagonia. Not really dress clothes, but everything they make is well designed and made, and they stand behind it if there’s a problem.

Michael Murray

Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why:
-Brunello Cucinelli – This is certainly not my favorite because I can afford any of it outside of an outlet. I respect what Brunello has built while emphasizing both beauty and ethics at the same time. Paying workers more than the average, creating a wonderful setting in which to do their work, and shutting down servers at 5:30 p.m. to force work/life balance is a beautiful practice. There is a spiritual aspect to the brand that speaks to me.
Your favourite product you bought last year (still why)
-Billy Reid cotton linen blend summer polo. It has the perfect weight and cut for warms summer days.
Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these)
-Jean-Manuel Moreau – Again, not one I have access to, but have immense respect for the currated collections the show which give inspiration to people dressing all over the world.
Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores)
-Sid Mashburn – For us in the U.S., Sid Mashburn creates a fantastic array of staples at approachable prices. Their in store experience is second to none as well.
Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever)
-The Italian Cobbler – Westlake, Ohio, USA – The cobbler can take shoes, luggage, etc. and make them like new. I had a leather duffel bag that I was considering selling or gifting as it was scratched and faded. I took it to the cobbler and he was able to make it look like new! Friends have had similar experiences with shoes, purses, etc. A true gem of a shop here in Cleveland, Ohio.

Mike

Brand: Spier & Mackay – affordable; accessible (particularly in Canada); good customer service; nice products, even if derivative (the relaxed fit chinos were a nice addition for me this year)

Product: Hartt Shoes – McKenna tassel loafers – a revived Canadian brand (made in Spain) – my first pair of loafers after trying several that didn’t fit well enough

Artisan: N/A – I’m not worldly or cultured enough to have anything custom made by an artisan (yet?)

Mainstream brand: going to cheat here and go with Salvation Army or any other thrift/charity shop that has several locations

Repair or maintenance experience: getting my 60s camel-coloured wool coat (Made in England by Berwin for Selfridges) patched up (including new hip pockets, as the old ones had torn, and patches in the lining rather than a full relining) at a local alterations tailor. Just the delight in making an old favourite wearable again. My previously-mentioned British Warm got a similar treatment at the same place.

Richard Meyer

Favorite brand: Ralph Lauren Purple Label
Purchase: A made to measure Purple Label sport coat
Artisan: Chipp custom tailors of NY ( most of my wardrobe, many over 20 years old
Brand: Ralph Lauren ( the guardian of classic American style)
Maintenance: Excellent alterations on an ancient sport coa

CDubya
  1. Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why: Imogene & Willie
  2. Your favourite product you bought last year (still why): Alan Flusser Slack Jacket. It’s comfortable, versatile and the fabric is the perfect mixture shlub and luxe.
  3. Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these): O’Farrells battery in Santa Fe, New Mexico. The wait is worth the qualify of craftsmanship and insights. Heritage designs with one of kind Native accouterments.
  4. Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores): RRL. I can add nothing to the reams of praise it already receives. Ok. It’s an American brand that outdoes Japanese attempts at cribbing heritage American workwear.
  5. Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever): Alan Flusser. Perfect alterations on tricky fixes like armhole displacement.
John Doe
  1. The Real McCoys. Hard decision but if I could only have a closet full of one brand’s clothes, it would be them. Love their dedication to Americana.
  2. Proper Cloth MTM Grey herringbone tweed MTM jacket. A grey tweed jacket like this and a navy blazer is basically all a man needs as far as tailoring goes.
  3. Kapital falls under this category somewhat I think. Love what they do. I see so many incredibly unique pieces by them that if you wore you’d get positive comments by everyone around you.
  4. Ralph Lauren, easy.
  5. Never really needed to repair or maintain too much, but once again shoutout to Proper Cloth because their returns/remakes policy is really nice.
Zak Wagner
  1. Your favorite menswear brand;This is tough! My top 3 are probably Ghiaia, Brycelands and Fortela. If I had to pick, it would be Fortela. Alessandro’s style really helped shape my style early on. Its italian, its preppy but has so much American West elements mixed in, it was easy for me to pick up and run with. My goal is to some day go to Milan and visit a store, but I am constantly turning to the brand for inspiration and how I want to style my clothes. I love loafers, and finding vintage Wrangler shirts where I live is easy. So it all just really works for me.
  2. Your favorite product you bought last year. I don’t buy too many things. My budget for new pick ups is relatively small. That’s one thing I use this website for, is to find items and brands that will really last and have a big hit in my wardrobe. Last year, I bought they Wythe Western Shirt. This shirt has been awesome. It fits really nicely, tucks in well, but I also wear it untucked with shorts. Its been worn under a sport coat, and on its own with Patagonia Baggies at the lake. Its really versatile, and living in the Rocky Mountains, it never looks out of place.
  3. Your favorite artisan in the world; Cody Wellema is my favorite. I do not own a product from him, and now I am not sure if I can after the tragic recent fires. His hats, and how he styled them looked fantastic. A hat from him was a grail item for me, and I really hope he is able to come back after losing his shop.
  4. Your favorite mainstream brand; I am not saying anything revolutionary here, but Ralph Lauren. Especially RRL. All the stores, products and styling is fantastic, but RRL stores are just on a level that I have not seen anyone touch. The fits are great, the store space really transports you to this RRL world. From a large brand perspective, its unbeatable.
  5. Your best repair or maintenance experience; I have a Filson Tin Cloth jacket that is pushing 12 years old. I wanted to be different, and went with this instead of the classic Barbour. By now, this jacket was getting a lot of holes in the arms and around the pockets. I sent it to Science and Kindness for repairs. They did some darning work to some holes and Shashiko work to others. I love it! The jacket is really something that feels like me, and now with the repairs it has more personal elements to it. Getting new things is fun, but really wearing and caring for something well made is very rewarding.
John E

Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now: Cavour. I like almost everything they make and it’s really easy to get a lot of their stuff in common sizes during their 50% off sales. Honorable mention is Spier & MacKay.

Your favourite product you bought last year: A brown corduroy field jacket by Jamais Vulgaire, but maybe just because it’s the one I got to wear the most. Lots of compliments on it.

Your favourite artisan in the world: All of the folks designing and producing shoes and boots for Oak Street Bootmakers

Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores) Ralph Lauren

Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever) N/A

Chris
  • Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why: Anglo Italian – sorry I know it’s a bit boring, but I just can’t help going back every single time. Consistently excellent in make, fit, brand, style and service, and namely just incredible value.
  • Your favourite product you bought last year (still why): Anglo Italian Country Coat – The style is gorgeous, perfect for weekend and city, has gotten more comfortable and looks even better ever day.
  • Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these): Simone Abbrachi, the service is excellent and great value for money.
  • Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores): Crockett and Jones, consistently good service, products last a lifetime, incredibly good value for money and love the style. Over 12 pairs and counting!
  • Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever): Crockett and Jones – Come back quickly, and better than before every time!
Tim J

Simone is a lovely guy too Chris. Met him in 2019 on a trip to Italy and have been using him ever since.

simon phillips

favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why
private white. i have a half dozen pieces, the quality, fit and materials are excellent and I feel good wearing it!

favourite product you bought last year
bespoke db jacket from Graham Browne (Russell). Still my tailor found MANY years ago by following Permanent Style (thanks Simon)

Your favourite artisan in the world
I love the passion of Chris Woodford at Crown Northampton/E. Woodford, I love even more his commitment to his craft, the industry and maintaining the history of his family name.

Your favourite mainstream brand
Crew. Once a year a ‘outlet’ buy of ‘tops’ gives me quality and a fresh update on colours and look, without breaking the bank

Best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever)
having many shoes repaired by Kokos (Finchley London), not been for a while but a truly excellent number of repairs over quite a few years of quality footwear

Alec
  1. The Decorum Singapore, Obbi Good Label, Kerbside&Co – each raised the bar for menswear in Singapore in 2024. Together with other established stores/tailors/artisans/brands they have made Singapore one of the world’s great cities for menswear.
  2. Ironheart Denim Western Shirt With Tonal Stitching IHSH-33-T – amazing fabric and construction. The design is versatile, understated and yet still manages to be exciting.
  3. Musella Dembech – Creative, tasteful and, by far, the most professional tailoring house I’ve encountered. Also just a wonderful family and joy to spend time with.
  4. Uniqlo – the incredible value for money gives great scope to test new colors, fits, materials, etc.
  5. Skoaktiebolaget / Enzo Bonafè: I sent an old, loved pair of Enzo Bonafè derbies back for resoling last year. The delivery turned out to be difficult. I was extremely impressed with the staff at Enzo Bonafe and Skoaktiebolaget. They each run large businesses but put an inordinate amount of their time to ensure my one pair of shoes was resoled. It spoke volumes regarding how seriously they value their own product.
Tom Bailey
  1. Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why: Cifonelli. Beautiful tailored clothing with exceptional attention to detail. They do all the alterations in their bespoke workshop. I’ve worked with two of the gentleman in the Paris shop and their customer service and guidance is impeccable. Since I am in NYC, honorable mention to The Armoury.
  2. Your favourite product you bought last year (still why): Crockett and Jones Winston single monk shoes in chestnut brown antique calf. Elegant and versatile shoes that I wear with suits, trousers, and jeans (perhaps a little formal with jeans, but I do it anyway)
  3. Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these): I could go with Cifonelli, but for the sake of variety, Frank Clegg. The craftsmanship and quality seem to me far above their purchase price.
  4. Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores): Not sure if this entirely counts, but Crockett & Jones. I wear a pair of their shoes almost every day.
  5. Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever): Wazin Custom Tailor & Alterations (NYC). Sam and his team do great work and are always friendly and considerate.
Tim J

C&J are a good pick for ‘best mainstream brand’ Tom. between their own stores & other retailers/stockists, i’m sure they qualify for the category.

Andrew
  1. Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why – Rubato – they just get most of it right most of the time. Right materials, right cuts and the right choices for the seasons
  2. Your favourite product you bought last year (still why) – ecru jeans from Blackhorse Atelier. They just get it right. So well made, the right color and with the cotton flecks and great shaping. Not too wide like many brands. Slim enough to still look sharp
  3. Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these) – SEH Kelly. Beautiful clothes made with a quite clear love for materials and tailoring features as well as being very practical. Superb materials chosen with a fervent focus on local products. Possibly the best of all clothing websites as well for the copy
  4. Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores) – Slowear. Madly frustrating changes in materials and sizes each year but they just make great clothes – trousers and jackets particularly
  5. Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever) – Jaeger Le Coultre for nursing my 1960s vintage automatic back to health
Roger Trapp

Favourite brand – Billy Reid (because they do basics with a slight difference and (for me) a great fit, plus I love the ethos and the customer service)
Favourite mainstream brand – Ralph Lauren (for the colours and doing the basics so well)
Artisan – Imogene + Willie (see Billy Reid)
Best repair – Archers dry cleaners of Sevenoaks, Kent (they repaired a leather briefcase that the manufacturer said could not be fixed)

Bjorn T

1. Rubato – really love what they have done with their range, and they are the nicest guys (have known them since Skoaktiebolaget). Got the varsity sweater recently – which strikes the perfect balance between modern and vintage
2. My first suit from Francis Paley – a killer blue narrow cord suit, with peak lapels. Has the sharpness I love from C&M, with a lighter construction. This one always gets positive comments
3. Still, and for the longest time, Kotaro san from CorCos. A lovely man with incredibly high standards and admirable values, and on top of that an amazing artisans. The new DB overcoat he made me is neck and neck with the suit from Francis as my favourite piece.
4. I don’t want to sound conceited but I can’t think of any – maybe Ralph?
5. The Valet

Graeme

1) Observer Collection. Robert Spangle is combining impeccable form and military function in a truly innovative way.

2) Custom Vans Authentic shoes in “Dress Blues”. The customization experience on their website is seamless and inexpensive. Vans Authentic model is, in my opinion, the most stylish CVO-style sneaker on the market today.

3) Ben at Viapiana in Toronto. A genuine artisan who obsesses over his craft (custom denim jeans, jackets, etc).

4) At the moment I’m shopping a surprising amount at Muji. They make the cheapest long, dress socks I’ve been able to find. They don’t always list them on their website so go in-store.

5) I just learned that Red Wing offers free boot cleaning at their stores.

RTK

In reviewing the submissions I noticed that few of the so called “luxury brands ” are included in the lists of favorite makers or retailers There were a few mentions for brands like Zegna, Brioni or Loro Piano but that was about it. I did not see anyone list Kiton, Cucinelli, Stefano Ricci, Hermes or any of the LVMH or Kering brands. This may speak to your readers perception of the price vs quality value equation of these items.

CS

Loro Piana is under LVMH, Brioni under Kering and RL under Richmont though..

Gregory Carrott

Turnbull & Asser. Their colors can be a bit much for me, and I would add their pocket squares that King Charles fancies, but everything I have purchased has lasted. I have bespoke shirts that must be 30 years old.

Wool crew socks from Fox River. They are an American classic.

Richard Anderson. When he was at Huntsman, I pushed, pulled, and cajoled him from the “house cut” and to use softer fabrics. The suits still look wonderful. He’s the consummate craftsman.

Ralph Lauren, but I say that not wholeheartedly. I only buy on sale. The quality does not justify the price otherwise.

Jim’s Shoe Repair in New York.

Darshak Malde

1. Ironheart. Extremely well-made and hard-wearing clothing.
2. Split steer hide modified type 3 jacket by Ironheart. Bullet proof.
3. Hajime Asaoka. Gorgeous handmade timepieces. Joint number one with Paolo Scafora. Gorgeous handmade Italian leather shoes.
4. Ralph Lauren Purple Label. Amazing quality and superb design
5. I haven’t had any repair or maintenance experience.

G Clark

1. Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why
I’m past the point in life where I either wear much tailored clothing or add very many pieces per year – my answer would have been different 10-15 years ago. I’ll go for Alden as my favorite brand under the criteria that losing my Alden shoes, or ability to add more, would hurt me the most. In my opinion their quality is very good, but what I really appreciate is the fit, durability and the permanence. The various lasts seem to be there to stay. If one fits your foot well, a different pair on the same (usually well advertised) last should fit just as well. A great looking, great feeling pair of boots or shoes is really important to me, and I can rely on Alden for that.
2. Your favourite product you bought last year (still why)
Since I I don’t buy tailored clothing anymore, my nicer purchases are usually footwear or knitwear. I did not buy a pair of Alden’s this year, but I did get a very nice Aran sweater from Inis Meain. This one is slightly lighter than the others I have, and a slightly tighter knit, so I think it’s going to be really versatile. I really the feeling of tradition combined with interesting knit patterns and mix of colors that Inis Meain is doing these days.
3. Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these)
If I can stretch this question to be “ever”, my favorite artisan is/was Art Fawcett who ran Vintage Silhouettes, a custom hat business making beaver fur felt fedoras. I have maybe half a dozen in various colors, and they are one of my favorite things to wear. Art retired about five years ago, and I really miss his work.
If the question is aimed only at artisans still producing, my other choice is Mackenzie Leather in Edinburgh. I have a very nice satchel from many years ago, and more lately, a more of less matching wallet. Nice workmanship and really nice people.
4. Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores)
I was excited to see Buck Mason covered here at PS. They get my vote for mainstream brand – I like the combination of quality and affordable price. In addition, my experience shopping at their stores (both Boston and Brooklyn) was great. No high pressure tactics, but the associates still seemed both engaged and knowledgeable.
5. Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever)
For me this is the restoration service offered by Alden. The process was easy, and the results for my old pair of Indy boots were very good.

Fun subject – thanks Simon!
Gordon

Kristian
  1. It would feel ingenious to not list Cavour here. Most of the clothes I have bought the last few years are from them because they offer good quality and good value.
  2. There are several garments that are high up the list this year, but having a shoutout to PS as well I will go with a dark brown linen suit from Cavour. I was inspired by the summer capsule article you did last summer and realised that such a suit would transform my whole summer wardrobe. Perhaps there should be a “most inspiring PS post/article” award as well?
  3. Can’t really say I have enough experience to have a favourite here, but perhaps Enzo Bonafè because of the experience bellow.
  4. I haven’t been shopping much at any stores that fit the criteria, but noticed Sunspel have 10+ stores worldwide so I’ll go for that! Their superfine cotton underwear is really great.
  5. Skomaker Dagestad/Enzo Bonafè: I handed in a pair of boots I had bought at Dagestad this year as the stitching had come undone. The boots would have to be completely dissembled, so had to go back to Enzo Bonafè for a full refurbishment. Relasted and everything new except the upper and lining. The boots really turned out beautiful. Finishing around the welt may have been better than when new, and the feeling of an almost completely new shoes with a broken in upper was fantastic. I was a bit nervous that the relasting would do anything with the fit, but if anything they even fit better! And the customers support from Dagestad through the process was great. Dagestad by the way offers a shoe repair service and shoe store in Oslo, selling shoes from Edward Green, Alden, Paraboot, Enzo Bonafè and others. It is the kind of store where the fathers bring their sons for their first shoes forming new lifetime customers. Well worth a visit for anyone visiting Oslo!
B

Fave brand(s):

Auralee is a pretty consistent favorite of mine. Every time I purchase or even get to feel one of their garments in person, my eyebrows perk up. Their fabrication is just so fantastic and the fits are all great. Except the pants… I can’t squeeze into even the largest size, as a large american… I think their prices are somewhat decent for the quality, and it’s really easy to purchase second hand items at shockingly low prices from Japan. Their lookbook styling and photography is always so ethereal and quaint. Definitely aspiration but in a way that feels true to my inner self. I also think they’ve found a way to maintain all of the above even with their recent explosion (showing at PFW, etc.).

I’m also constantly drawn into the universe of Drake’s. Their marketing and lookbooks are just so good. The really nail the ~fantasy as reality~ thing – like… “Hey, let’s put this shit on and go drink a pint” vs. a lot of the more dreamy or even “clothes being worn in a vacuum” vibes of a lot of other brands. I also really love their product, particularly the shetland knits, games blazers, and waxed jackets. Also the ties are just so perfect.

Fave product(s) of year:

Crescent down works down sweater – This is (basically) the perfect puffer for me. I dislike most down jackets as they bring too much of a modern/tech vibe and don’t totally mesh with my wardrobe. This one, however, holds true to an older school/vintage down jacket design, and it looks great with almost anything.. Unlike a lot of modern down jackets, the 60/40 fabric ages and breaks in nicely with wear. I also just love the company and story.

Drakes coverall – I know a lot of PS readers have probably owned or considered this jacket at some point or another… But I must say that it’s been one of my most worn items of clothing this year. I just can’t get enough of it. I love all of the small details, and the fit and style is perfect and easy to throw over basically all of my clothes (as it should).

3sixteen Washed RS jeans – finally 3sixteen dropped a washed version of their new relaxed fit denim! After wearing through one of my absolute favorite pair of light wash jeans, I was on the hunt for a replacement, and basically no vintage pairs had wash/fit I was after. These had the perfect fit and wash and felt like they were created by my own brain, just for me.

Fave artisan:

I had a talk with the people at Man-Tle a year or so ago and was totally blown away by their approach to clothes making and attention to detail in such (relatively) simple presentations. They’ve developed some delightfully wearable clothes that are at their heart workwear garments, but with very advanced dye jobs and fabrications. The clothes feel industrial while also feeling artisanally made. It’s an unusual contrast that’s not really found anywhere else. I only own one jacket from them, but it’s a forever garment for me.

Fave mainstream brand:

I’m not sure if this is yet in the mainstream category, but I’ve come to like Buck Mason over the past few years. They have wonderful basics and even their overcoats and casual tailoring are great and well priced. They’ve nailed down some really good collaborations in the past few years (J press, j mueser, eddie bauer), and just continue to get better and better IMO.

Also J Crew is just an endless trove… They have something for everyone and at hard to beat prices. I like some of the direction that Brendan Babenzien has given the brand, and am still a giant chino wearer.

Fave repair job:

I had some jeans repaired at Williamsburg Garment Co in Brooklyn, and completely loved their vibe. Just one room, floor to ceiling denim, old chain stitch machines, a barking dog, and loud late 50s jazz blasting. They did a great job too 🙂

Ben

1. Rubato or Anglo Italian. Rubato just seem to hit the nail on the head often (I have a lot of their knitwear and chinos etc.) and Anglo Italian I really like the understated palate. Would go with Rubato though.
2. Don’t really have a firm favourite but will say a nice Andersen & Shepherd Shetland rollneck. Bit different from other offerings.
3. I have not used many in the last year but have bought from Jake’s a lot, and very pleased with the results.
4. A big big struggle to think of one. Guess I will say J Crew on account of that I have a parka from there that is still going strong years later
5. Not applicable to me this year

O><frd

Fun! Weighing in from Chicago:

1. Favourite menswear brand:
Drake’s, De Petrillo and Stoffa – for the obvious reasons

2. favourite product you bought last year:
Vintage Connolly briefcase. Brown calf with cast aluminum hardware. Great size for a book, umbrella, and headphones, beautifully supple. A close runner up would be ski wear from Sease – natural/sustainable materials, excellent functionality, and unique style perspective that seems to mix technical features with classic shapes

3. Your favourite artisan in the world – SEH Kelly. Seconding others’ reasons here – well considered designs, and beautiful fabrics. A special shout out their gloves.

4. Your favourite mainstream brand – john smedley. Hard to beat variety of knits

5. Your best repair or maintenance experience – saphir shoe products make diy worth the effort

Tim J

Favourite menswear brand right now: Either A&S Haberdashery or Connolly, both due to the elegance of the design & quality of the fabrics used.
Favourite product bought last year: A dark brown corduroy jacket commissioned from The Finery Company (Sydney). The cut & fit were perfect and the dark brown corduroy feels soft & luxurious.
Favourite artisan: Atelier Bomba in Rome. I also love both GJ Cleverley and Stefano Bemer, but have a real soft spot for Bomba. Beautiful store, lovely muted colour range and wonderfully well-made knitwear.
Favourite mainstream brand: Sunspel. I find all of their basics (tshirts, socks, underwear, sweats) are durable and strike the right balance of cost/quality for me.
Best repairs or maintenance: Toughest of the questions to answer as an Australian based reader as we are starved of good repair services for many things. Blackhorse Lane have repaired several pairs of jeans for me over the years and have done a great job.

Kraka

How much does a TFC suit cost? What was the process like?

Tim J

Hi Kraka ,
Might be better to check with Joe / TFC directly. It’s been a good 5 years since I’ve had a suit made and the market has moved quite a bit since then. He’s also added a new line that is turned around faster, has more elements done by machine as opposed to by hand and is also cheaper. I’ve been very pleased with TFC’s work. From memory, a jacket ranges from $5-$6k AUD, but the new line is between $3-$4k. Initial 2 x commissions I did took 2 x fittings before the finished garment was delivered. I’m based in Melbourne and waited for Joe’s trunk shows to do the fittings. The process took time given I’m not based in Sydney, but all good things take time. I hope that helps a little, but best to validate with Joe.

Kraka

Thanks Tim for the detailed response. Sorry, I got confused as I thought you had bought it last year.

GC

Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now
For some time it’s been Barena for their sportscoats and casual jackets

Your favourite product you bought last year
I thrifted a pair of liferevival pleated ghurka pants. I’d never heard of the brand until I found these – all I could find is that it’s a company in Thailand that does military surplus styled clothing. The pants are in a really soft twill, they are roomy without being baggy and have a nice, high rise. If I could find a way to get them shipped internationally I would buy another pair new in another colour.

Your favourite artisan in the world
David Hober. These days if I wear a tie, it’s almost always a grenadine and David’s grenadine ties are excellent. Not sure if it’s still on their site but they also had a really helpful video on what to do if you get a snag/run in a grenadine tie.

Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores)
Uniqlo. They’re ubiquitous in thrift stores now and hence a great way to experiment on a budget. You can sometimes find multiples of the same item to have extra fabric to turn them into something a bit more unusual (eg adding patch pockets at the hip to a linen shirt, self-belted trousers).

Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever)
I have two. The first is Luca Avitabile. I caught and tore the sleeve on a hopsack overshirt. I asked if they could send an offcut of the fabric so I could patch it. Instead they told me to send it to them and they replaced the whole sleeve at no charge. The second is the late Nicola Ricci who ran a little alterations shop in Melbourne – it was amazing that you could get your clothes altered by a tailor who made Marcello Mastroianni’s suits for his films.

Gilles
  1. My favorite menswear brand: Rubato. Beyond the quality of their products, their lookbooks are extremely inspiring and gave me a lot of combination ideas using all my wardrobe pieces.
  2. My favorite product I bought last year: William Lockie shawl cardigan mocha color. So versatile, well made, classic yet contemporary.
  3. My favorite artisan in the world: My friend Kwak Ho Been, who is running Tailorable in Korea. Great bespoke suits, he has access to absolutely all fabrics in the world, reasonably priced, and great ideas when it comes to ready-made clothes.
  4. My favorite mainstream brand: Probably Ralph Lauren. Very versatile and still some very beautiful pieces.
  5. My best repair or maintenance experience: Reward Laundry Jean Fix. A very small chop in corridor between two malls in Singapore. They are absolutely great in fixing denim, reducing waist,… Very often with Japanese denim I’m between two sizes. I go for the bigger one and then I adjust the leg (hip, thigh and tapering to the calf). They do it perfectly.
David

1) The Real McCoy’s, because of their dedication to historical authenticity.
2) PRAS Shellcap Low Sneakers, because they’re incredibly comfortable and well-made.
3) Peter Nitz, because he is elevating leather craftsmanship to near perfection.
4) Uniqlo.
5) Kirby Allison’s knowledge base on leather shoe care, it’s been invaluable.

Jeldrik

1. De bonne Facture. Mainly because of the low-key look. The items look special, don’t stand out and can be easily integrated into most wardrobes. And DBF has a slight academic nerd touch, which I really like.

2 Novesta Star Master in white. Because of the sole, they’re kind of the Birkenstocks of canvas sneakers, the most comfortable canvas sneaker I’ve ever had.

3. –

4. The Row. They don’t actually have 10 stores, but I still think they should count. Because of the price, I only buy clothes from The Row on high sale or second hand. But the clothes are so special. The fit, the materials, the colours. They’re like a mixture of Margiela’s Hermès years and Phoebe Philos Céline – available also for men. And easy to wear. Definitely one of the more exciting fashion brands.

5. A local repair service without a website.

henry m.

A. Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why:
rubato, effortless and chic
B. Your favourite product you bought last year (still why):
coherence coat and rubato jeans
C. Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these):
ciccio japan
D. Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores):
aesop
E. Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever):
nothing i can think of

Elliott P

1. Rubato – The world building and brand experience is of quite a high level and the few pieces I have are my go-to pieces for most occasions, however hoping for some more jackets and outerwear in the future.
2. Product would be my JMM glasses. I have had glasses from all price ranges outside of luxotica and the packaging experience and quality are spectacular despite the rather ‘high’ price point.
3. Fred Nieddu (Taillour;). Absolutely stunning craftsmanship and a lovely house cut and I hope to own one of their pieces in the future.
4. Edward Green (at least more than 10 stockists(?) and a globally recognised brand). Great shoes, great people, fair value.
5. Haven’t mended anything in the past year but did a Sashiko mend on a pair of vintage 615 orange tab Levi’s that made them quite unique.

Jim

I’ve had two good shoe repair experiences with The Valet, Piccadilly Arcade London

DS

Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why
Has to be Ralph Lauren by a distance. I have a couple of products (rugbys, polos, weekender, casual trousers) from them, but beyond that I visit their shops whenever I can and often I browse their online shop for inspiration. They are such a benchmark for colours, proportions, combinations, their shop design and their whole aesthetics. Also I like to look at their suits as an inspiration for bespoke commissions.
I used to rate Brooks Brothers similarly when they were still great. I bought lots of ties, bow ties, and accessories like lapel flowers and collar stiffeners from them despite having to pay customs for shipping from the US to Germany.
Apart from those two I’d go for
Falke – socks
Schiesser – underwear
Crockett and Jones / Carmina – shoes
Fox – cloth for bespoke
Le Tricoteur – guernsey sweater
Rochford Sports – tennis sweater
Levi’s – denim
Shibumi – ties
van Laack – shirts
Michelsons – wide knitted ties. A real treasure, finally found knit ties that are not too skinny, price is great, too.
Your favourite product you bought last year (still why)
Charcoal Birdseye Flannel (Fox) suit from Sebastian Hoofs. I hope it will stay with me for decades to come, such a joy to wear and very classic and unassuming.
Second place is a khaki cotton balmacaan from kleinanzeigen.de (online thrift shopping), very classic and cheap (less than € 30, as the maker was no longer identifiable) and a very nice fit after narrowing the bottom and the sleeves.
Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these)
Kleegräfe und Strothmann, Gütersloh: I have bought bespoke there (jackets, suits, trousers), also buying ready-to-wear which could be altered straight away and had old things from my wardrobe altered to fit me. See last question also. Great style, very wearable, leaning Italian (but not Neapolitan).
Sebastian Hoofs, Cologne: Bougth bespoke suits there. Great style, think 1920s.
Love the friendliness, consultation and the expertise from both.
Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores)
Has to be Ralph Lauren again, for the reasons stated above. Hard to differentiate between questions 1) and 4).
Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever)
My favourite peace of outerwear is a crombie coat I bought online around 2010. Initially it was narrow in the shoulders and the lower ends were kind of long and pushed forward, giving me a strange side-on silhouette. Over the years I have had two initial alterations broadening the width by using the back seam but I wasn’t entirely happy. Finally I brought it to Kleegräfe und Strothmann and the tailor Maro Beckert released the coat’s full potential, further broadening the width from the back seam, shortening the lower ends and fixing the silhouette. So after 13 years I am finally wearing the coat happily, hopefully I can wear it for a long time.

Peter Orosz

1. Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why
A toss-up between North Sea Clothing and Tangent.
North Sea for their style and quality. I type this wearing the first jumper I bought from them, in 2012, and it looks, feels, and wears the same as when I unpacked it. They keep coming up with fantastic designs I can’t buy because the eight wool jumpers I have will last forever.
Tangent for their fresh take on military-style trousers. The fabrics, the style, and particularly the cuts are marvelous. I have three pairs (herringbone twill chinos, wool-linen shorts, tweed trousers), all lovely in their own ways. They also sell jackets now but I haven’t tried those. Bonus: they make a small range for women, a welcome rarity. The company is a Covid-era side project for womenswear designer Shibatani Osamu, and for the first few years they were online only, but as of June 2024 they have a physical shop in Tokyo.
2. Your favourite product you bought last year (still why)
A pair of Alden bluchers in Color 8 cordovan with brass eyelets, from Frans Boone. My first pair of Alden shoes. There’s something about the proportions and the make and the style that’s more than the sum of its parts. Even my brother, who has a thing for dressing in rock-climbing gear and barefoot running shoes, all in crazy colors, nodded approvingly at my “very nice old man’s shoes”.
3. Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these)
Vass Shoes. I’m probably biased because I lived in Budapest for 20 years and walked past their shop hundreds of times. Beautiful hand-sewn shoes sold by lovely people in a gorgeous, airy shop. To a degree smaller than other Budapest shoemakers Vass also suffer from having to cater to a small, middle income market where the rich people have no taste but when you look past the shiny and pointy and blue shoes you’ll see that Vass has excellent taste. Their Theresianer derby is a particularly well-balanced design — I have a pair in what Vass call fawn-brown suede and another in Color 8 cordovan and I love both.
4. Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores)
Kapital. The simple reason is that walking into a Kapital shop is like eating ice cream or going sledding: something you can only do with a smile on your face. At first glance everything looks insane and unwearable but once your eyes adjust to the madness you’ll see that they make a lot of very nice everyday clothes, all with delightful but almost invisible twists. Over the years I’ve bought trousers, work shirts, canvas jackets, scarves, bandannas. The fabrics and the make are excellent.
5. Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever)
Árpád Balló, a Budapest-based tailor, who once repaired a pair of old Harris Tweed trousers I had worn on a two-week walk across some mountains in the winter. I still wear them, six years on, and you couldn’t tell they’re fourteen years old and that most winters I wear them to walk in the bush and go sledding. Árpád, when he isn’t bothered by such vagabonds, is an excellent bespoke tailor who has also made me a beautiful navy hopsack jacket. If you find yourself in Budapest, his studio is right next to the opera house, at Dalszínház utca 10.

Stephen

When you summarise this, perhaps you could do a word search on Marks and Spencer or M&S. An underrated brand on the basics. Permanent style I would suggest is a state of mind, that’s not necessarily predicated on something being expensive.

Stephen

Coincidentally, there is an article this week 21/09, in The Sunday Times Style Magazine about the interest in vintage M&S (70s and 80s) including their own St Michael brand – remember that ?! Amongst other high st brands. Evidently the M&S tailoring consultant in 1972 was Angelo Vitucci whose clients in Rome included Roger Moore and Frank Sinatra. According to the M&S archivist Dustin Hoffman purchased £2,500 worth of suits in the store in 1983 on the recommendation of Kirk Douglas. Interesting that we look far afield for vintage when there is something quite special right under our noses.

Rory

Favorite brand right now
I’m new to LEJ, but loving the playful, relaxed, “dolce vita” vibe. Also Horatio for shoes (and a small selection of great knitwear.)

Favorite product bought last year
A tie between The Anthology “Lazyman” jacket in camelhair, and the Permanent Style suede overshirt. Both are luxurious without screaming, and easy to wear either casually or more dressed up. The quality of both is also excellent – the PS suede is incredible.

Favorite mainstream brand
Here in the US, Sid Mashburn (I *think* they qualify with about 10 stores) – excellent quality, great low-key style, with thoughtful details that are all exactly right. Also Todd Snyder – I wear their corduroy pants all winter long, they have them in a ton of colors – although I feel their other clothing has started becoming too “fashiony” (or maybe I’m just too old.) Plus Uniqlo of course – their merino knits especially are an excellent value and last really well.

Paul Thompson

1.           Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why
CONNOLLY London. Constantly managing to come up with something elegant and interesting without trying too hard. They have the most beautiful shop in London and excellent old school service. It’s a good reason to leave the house.
2.           Your favourite product you bought last year (still why)
Jodhpur boots in crackled patent leather from HUSBANDS Paris. Heels with tailoring, it’s the future.
3.           Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these)
Kimberley Lawton at LAWTON for her craft, her sharp cuts, her energy and daring to be different. I love her singular vision for how tailoring can work in the current world, and taking cool cultural influences from the past and making them relevant today.
4.           Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores)
FURSAC are now heavily under the influence of Gauthier Borsarello. Fresh good quality pieces with a nod to rock ‘n’ roll, vintage classics and Parisian street style. All done with his cool take on French elegance.
5.           Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever)
I’m constantly repairing stuff at the moment. I’ve had great experiences with Aero Leather Clothing, Kokos Shoe Repairs and Carmines Tailoring Studio.
But GOKOTTA HANDCRAFT have been exceptional, turning repairs into a real art form. Superb service and beautiful results. @Gokottahandcraft

BULENT TUNGA YILMAZ

Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why: Ralph Lauren… Varieties of lines for each need and price category as well as versatility.
Your favourite product you bought last year (still why): Because I live in Dubai, Ralph Lauren polo-t-shirts in different colors. They make you chic and stylish under sun. Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these): Liverano & Liverano from Florence. Impeccable artisanship with a traditional yet modern touch. Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores): Alongside Ralph Lauren, my other favorite brands: Canali ve CornelianiYour best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever): Turkey-Istanbul, the tailor at my former neighbourhood. He’s good at any small craft.

Joe

 
1 – Favourite Menswear Brand: A Lange & Söhne. The most beautiful watches for men. 
2 – Favourite product in last year: I bought a lovely Hermes scarf that was muted, colourful and versatile which is not something easily found for men.  
3 – Frank Clegg. Since he was featured on PS, I have found myself buying one of his products every year or two whether it’s a gift for my wife or something personal. They just seem to get better with age.
4 – Sunspel. After trying so many other brands, I feel it is the only place to go for T-shirts and Polo’s that comfortably fit (even for tubby body shapes like mine..!).
5 – I will focus on the maintenance element:  the use of Saphir shoe polishes and creams help to maintain leather shoes and goods so well. 

Jez

1. Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why
Answer: Thom Sweeney. Fabulous quality, especially trousers and shirts.

2. Your favourite product you bought last year (still why). Thom Sweeney Velvet Cotton Drawstring Trousers. Always steered clear of drawstring in the past but trusted TS and wasn’t disappointed. So versatile and comfortable.

3. Your favourite artisan in the world. Probably Black Horse Lane Ateliers. Quality and service. Lucy is making some MTM jeans for my wife as we speak. Great people. Great product.

3. Your favourite mainstream brand. Mmm Have to be Sunspel. Getting silly expensive but having invested in over 60 T shirts with them over the years, they never fail as a trustee for your staples.

4. Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever).
Local to me in Essex. Posh Alterartions. Chintzy name but mix of Bulgarian & Turkish expertise have proved so valuable over the years. I’ve given them some challenges, lately a vintage Odermark Herringbone overcoat but always deliver. Never going to be one of the trendies but often these are the best.

Oliver

Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why: Anderson & Sheppard for pulling off bespoke + RTW in a unique but coherent and compelling way. So many high quality items I wish I could afford more frequently.

Your favourite product you bought last year (still why): The Real McCoy’s Photographer Utility Jacket in beige. It’s pretty silly with its crazy assortment of pockets but unique and I just love wearing it. Symptomatic of the brand in general. I really only like a quite small number of their products but the ones I own I just love wearing over and over again.

Your favourite artisan in the world: Joe Morgan Chittleborough & Morgan: obsessed with quality and making sure you are really, really happy with the end result. Love my C&M tailoring. Apart from Joe, a carpenter in Hallstatt, Austria who restored a treasured heirloom writing desk to look like something belonging in a high profile museum.

Your favourite mainstream brand: United Arrows springs to mind as always fun to visit but I have probably bought the most from Sunspel over the years.

Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever): I am still looking…

Jared

Hesitant to reply, as i may not have the wealth of experience or rapport that many long-time posters do, but I will offer my thoughts in case it helps:

1. Maybe it is because it is winter, but right now I think my favorite menswear brand is currently Colhays. I love the quality of their knits, as well as the colors and style options. As discussed in various articles on this site, knits can be used in such a versatile variety of situations and styles. Living in the Pacific Northwest, adding a couple of turtles and a couple of Crew/V-necks have been ways to dress up more casual outfits, and dress down a jacket in a city where no one wears tailoring out. I have bought sweaters for my wife and my father, and have just gotten a lot of use out of their products.

2. Either the denim dress (down) shirt, or the Riva pink dress shirt I commissioned from Camiciera Sannino this year. The denim shirt (my first) is so versatile as well, and is a light enough blue that I can wear it casually or more dressed up both during the day and at night. It seems to work year round, and I look forward to seeing it age. The Riva shirt is just so luxurious. I haven’t found it to wear hot, and I find it actually easier to iron than sea island cotton. While I am generally okay with rougher or scratchier textures, the shirt is just so soft, it somehow makes it a pleasure to wear. My wife keeps stealing it too.

3. Favorite artisan is Eric Jensen, the bespoke tailor to whom I remain loyal. Despite it being a little harder to see him now, I hope to be able to continue to grow my wardrobe with him going into the future. I am not a world travelled connoisseur, but I really enjoy the style of his coat, am nearing a reliable near-perfect fit, and greatly enjoy his and his wife’s company during visits.

4. For a mainstream brand, probably Everlane for items such as T-shirts. I think their shirts walk the line of good price for wear for less long-lasting articles of clothing.

5. For best repair/maintenance, while I’m not sure how well this fits, was alterations at “Beyond Bespoke” in NYC. I inherited a number of 70s and 80s Paul Stuarts from my grandfather (a real clothes horse) when he passed away. Aggressive alterations were necessary to get these garments to fit, and while the fit is less ideal still than some of my MTM and bespoke clothing, they are some of my most cherished suits/jackets. The vintage (if you’d call it vintage) fabrics, and the fact that I get to carry a part of my grandfather with me, are all thanks to the garments essentially being reconstructed so that they could fit.

Peter S

The best menswear brand right now is Ralph Lauren. I think everybody here owns something RL.
My favourite piece bought last year is a tuxedo shirt from Turnbull & Asser. Didn’t need it, bought it anyway. Used it at a New Year’s party and felt good about it. Will probably only be used one or two times this year. Don’t care, love it.
Favourite artisan? Enzo Bonafé. Italian shoemaker, popular in some circles here in Sweden. Only got one pair of his shoes, but they are super comfortable.
Mainstream brand: Nudie. Swedish jeans and t-shirts. Great quality, good prices and good ideas.
And recently i finally got my father’s ring fitted for me. So that’s my favourite maintenance.

Gary

Favourite men’s brand. Seraphin. Because they make the best casual jackets and because they are a manufacturer and not primarily a “brand”.
Favourite product. Seraphin Chambord cashmere silk and mink fur blouson. Wonderfully warm, yet understated.
Favourite artisan. Bertrand Montillet. Just for the quality.
Favourite mainstream brands. Zimmerli. Just for the quality.
Best maintenance experience. The laundry at the Mandarin Oriental in Bangkok. Things come back better than new.

Justin Shepherd
  1. Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why: been really liking Anglo Italian style, since they have a really relaxed approach to business wear that never looks out of place. But frankly Simon I think your PS line is either my go-to or reference point (reference if it’s out of price range) for many many things
  2. Your favourite product you bought last year (still why): G&G St James in Rosewood. Makes me wonder why I buy non-G&G shoes (it’s the price), and I’ve basically resolved to only buy them and C&J going forward
  3. Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these): I’ll go with G&G again. Perfect classic and contemporary balance for me at a high quality level. Super expensive, but what isn’t these days
  4. Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores): SuitSupply. I’m a good fit in a couple of their trousers, and I can get those plus light weight knits that wear extremely well for $200. I wouldn’t buy a jacket or a suit there (will continue MTM for those), but for the filler pieces they’re great
  5. Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever): I live in Washington, and there’s a local guy called Aram the cobbler. He used to have a popular brick and mortar shop with his brother back in the day (Sky Valet – sold all the English brands and Vass). Now he does a remote repair business. For his top-level service, he hand stitches, even on GYW – which its important because non-factory GYW repairs won’t have access to the original last – and hand shapes the waist, in some ways better than the originals. He drops off and picks up all over DC, and is a pleasure to talk with about shoes.
Euan

1) drakes – simple design with an occasional twist and very well made
2) coherence navy garberdine Corb 2 overcoat. Love the relaxed fit and beautifully made
3) does felisi count? Bought an unstructured blue canvas hold-all from them a few years ago and it gives me joy every time I use it and often receives complements. Beautiful saddle leather handles and brass hardware.
4) Gap for boxers. They last years and years…
5) proctors dry cleaning in Canterbury – when dry cleaning a much lover old cashmere William lockie sweater the fixed a number of moth holes without charging me.

Andrew
  1. Drake’s – but either discounted or secondhand
  2. Rolex Explorer 124270 – it was a big birthday and I’d been on the waiting list for three years!
  3. N/A
  4. Marks & Spencer
  5. Learning how to re-weave the moth damage in a vintage Shetland tweed jacket
Gerald W.

1. Shibumi Firenze, because in addition to excellent neckwear they also have a small range of exclusive men’s clothing. From time to time there are outlet promotions. Here you can buy high-quality items at a more than fair price. I love my block stripe Shantung tie from Shibumi. Likewise my pistachio green sevenfold tie with floral pattern. A pocket square made of kimono silk is still missing from my wardrobe.

2. The most important purchase in 2024 is a light, unstructured tweed jacket by Justo Gimeno, Zaragoza. Not cut like a Teba jacket, but is reminiscent of old golf jackets. It therefore has a so-called action back. The light and rather soft tweed comes from Abraham Moon and has a gun club check. What is the decisive advantage? The jacket falls loosely and allows a lot of freedom of movement!
I bought it from Michael Jondral in Hanover.

3. I don’t know any craftsmen or tailors yet.

4. Schiesser, a traditional brand with a number of stores in Germany, makes good underwear, nightwear, loungewear and swimwear at an acceptable price.

5. I trust in the tailoring skills of a Greek woman in my neighborhood.

Jean

Hello everyone!
Ok, so lets do this.
I apologize in advanced for my poor english.

1-Your favourite menswear brand :
Rubato! It clearly defines my vision of casual style. Sober, clean, thoughtfully made, Well balanced pieces. The only brand Where I litterally want to buy every single garment on the shop.

2-Your favourite product you bought last year :
My beige checked sports jacket from anglo italian. Beautiful piece. Made of silk and linen. Cant wait for spring to wear it again. I Just love the look, with a knit t shirt or polo, and jeans or trousers.

3-Your favourite artisan :
cordonnerie Progrès, in Paris. Stéphane Is a very skilled cobber. The cleanest and finest work i’ve seen so far. And he has so much to tell about his craft, anecdotes about clients…

4-Your favourite mainstream brand :
I want to say Uniqlo.
It Is, by far, the mainstream brand I have and use the most.
For underwear, but not only.
It remains a great place for small budgets. And for garments you are not Willing to spend a lot, and/or not looking for high quality, but still want natural material and classic cut.

5-Your best repair or maintenance experience :
Again cordonnerie Progres !
Stéphane saved twice my crockett&jones loafers. He always has good advices, and finds solutions everytime i need his help.

O

Fun little thing to think about

1. Favourite Brand: Rubato, own several knitwear, a few of their old cashmere ones, a few cotton and a few polos. Such quality, and such joy to wear. And the Rubato guys styling are impeccable as well. Really impressed with everything they do and they are one of very few brands that im truly excited to see what they come up. Honorable mentions: Saman Amel, Full Count, Alden and Brycelands. All great in their niche. Have only a few brycelands shirts but I imagine they will impress me even further if ill try some more products

2. Favourite product: Probably a suede stoffa jacket I bought at a hefty discount. My god what a feeling it is to put on, buttery soft suede, a little drapey and that big “floating” collar. Absolutely incredible.

3. Artisan: Hard to say, know and have tried very few. Does Saman Amel count? Otherwise, the stuff Fred Nieddu at Taillour does looks impeccable. Would be fun to try some day

4. Mainstream brand: Probably Carhartt. Have a few vintage pieces that I really enjoy wearing. Not sure about the quality and mainly the fit of their new stuff.

5. Repair/Maintenance: Bought an old Eidos belted double breasted overcoat right after Antoino left on Ebay, NWT, for like 300USD. Big, drapey, heavy thing, turn back cufs and the whole nine yards (everything except buttons). Never liked to wear it with that belt tightly wrapped around my waist so I put in regular buttons at a great “change tailor” (if that is the english term?!) here in Sweden.Been using it 5 months/year for quite a long time now. Love how it turned out, and im even more pleased with it when I see the price for something similar today or for lower end coats for that matter (like berg&berg), and how much less of a coat you get for quite a lot of money.

My 5 cents – First time I comment I think (fun), and thanks for all the effort Simon!

Theodore Shouse

Favorite brand: Charvet. There is no other experience like it on earth. To be fitted for a suit and shirt there is to live.
Favorite Artisan. Jean Jacques at Charvet. A gentleman tailor of the old school and completely lacking in pretension. I once asked him to shorten trousers by an inch and a quarter – inches!! What the hell are inches? He called me later to tell me how many centimeters that was.

Herbert

1. Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why

Must be Rubato, best quality and great customer service

2. Your favourite product you bought last year (still why)

Bought this one kinda late but the funnel neck is my go to, interesting because from the get go I thought the style wouldn’t suit me but now it’s my most worn knit

3. Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these)

Haven’t really tried anyone but would love to in the near future (Ps is not helping in narrowing down the list)

4. Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores)

Ralph Lauren, easy one, the rl polo is one of the best garments ever made

5. Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever)

Peter

3) Pino Peluso in Naples captures my shape and style with his tailoring. He makes me look like “me” with what he creates.
5) French American Reweaving in New York did a fabulous job fixing a 1 inch long hole in a navy blue suit. The work was invisible, as advertised.

Simeon

So for my Brycelands tops it right now for me having taken the crown from Rubato (Rubatos price to quality since they quietly jumped the price and blamed tax hasn’t helped, as well as their cotton knits just not being up to the quality they advertise). Why Brycelands, interesting styling their mtm is amazing block is the closest natural fit of a suit for me and great styling but for once they cater for bigger guys! Plus Ben is a great sales person who’s enthusiasm is dangerously to my wallet

Favourite item of clothing this year was a bit off piste and is a long oversized black coat from Fear of God, not someone I’ve bought anything else from but it drapes and wears beautifully and is the perfect amount of drama in an over coat

Artisan I’d have to go with SEH Kelly there’s just something about how the products flow so well from the description to product that feels so all encompassing and considered

Favourite mainstream brand probably RL for the styling, hardest question on the list though!

Best repair experience is every experience with Ingmans in chesterfield, it’s getting really difficult to find classic cobblers who still do a good job especially in the north and every time they’ve returned my shoes to as new or better

Jon

-Best brand: Community Clothing. Brilliant ethos and classic, timeless pieces. The Fisherman’s Jumper is incredible.
-Favourite product: Power belt by Morgan + Wells. Superb quality and it gets better every single day (smells amazing). Supporting the local economy with British oak tanned leather and UK solid brass buckles. I shall be getting a third colour soon.
-Favourite Artisan: Morgan + Wells
-Favourite brand: Community Clothing
-Repair: Dean Westmoreland shoes

Leeson

Keep it short and sweet:

Best Brand – J. Simons
Favourite Product – Beams Plus fair-isle socks
Favourite Artisan – Imogene + Willie
Mainstream Brand – Polo Ralph Lauren
Repairs – Simpson Soe Repairs, Shildon, Co. Durham

Jan

Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why

Depending on the definition they may not qualify as a brand for the purpose of this exercise but I will say the Armoury. Given how they curate a selection of other brilliant brands, have developed dozens of products in collaboration, produce content etc. they feel like a brand to me. Great service, great taste, great people.

Your favourite product you bought last year (still why)

A pair of OrSlow 107 raw selvedge jeans. The best jeans I’ve ever had. (Honorary mention to my greenish-brown Saint Crispins butterfy loafers, the fawn lambswool crewneck from Rubato and my dark green cashmere crewneck from Colhays. All also very close to perfection imo.)

Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these)

I haven’t tried too many but my best tailoring is from WW Chan and I suppose they qualify as artisans

Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores)

Difficult! I nominate Vans. I never liked the more PS-fähig options for cotton sneakers (like Doek’s) and while my shoe collection has grown up a lot over the years, I have always stuck with Vans. Great price / quality, great styling, strong authentic brand and excellent affordable customisation system. I must have bought at least 20 pairs over the past 20 years.

Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever)

The resoling / renovation of two pairs of mtm Saint Crispins without a doubt. They completely rebuilt the shoes for a reasonable fee and the shoes looked and felt better than new (after 7-8 years of weekly wear). I have experienced the same process with C&J, Alden and Edward Green but Saint Crispins is next level! I should also mention that I bought the shoes through the Armoury in Hong Kong but because of my relocation Pauw in Amsterdam coordinated the repair with Saint Crispins for free (they did not even charge transportation cost). So Pauw also contributed to the positive experience.

Look forward to the final result (although I can already see where this is going)!

Bill M

Favourite menswear brand in the world right now – Real McCoys – amazing attention to detail, super high quality materials, craftsmanship and consistency across a broad range of clothing, and fairy priced. I never feel there is a “better” version of anything they make – it all feels very special.
Your favourite product you bought last year (still why) – Probably Real McCoys N1 Navy deck jacket. I needed something warm and sort of “in between” my vintage WWII Navy Peacoat and my Barbour Bedale for daily wear
Your favourite mainstream brand – Crocket & Jones shoes – very consistent, high quality and fairly priced – just solid all around
Fahri’s Custom Tailoring in Pittsburgh PA – has been my go to for all tailoring and alterations – – many pairs of Rota pants and Armoury sport coats. I always trust the work and it’s consistently great

TCN

Favorite brand: I assume this means someone bigger than the typical one location bespoke tailor, so I’ll go with Cordings because they have a nice variety of products at attractive prices.
Favorite product I bought last year: A pair of Edward Green lined Piccadillys in mink suede. Comfortable, versatile, I feel like they elevate me even when I’m not looking my best.
Favorite artisan: I could not possibly be happier with my shirts from John Garland.
Favorite mainstream brand: I think Hackett has more than 10 locations, right? They’re just fun.
Best repair experience: I was in London, and my Dent’s cashmere lined Peccary gloves developed a large hole in the lining. I called Dents and they said they “no longer repair” their gloves, so I left them with the Valet in the Piccadilly Arcade to fix. They warned me that the repair would not be invisible, but when I go them back, it was a perfectly executed repair at a reasonable price. I had to schedule my own pickup to have them sent back to the States, but the Valet packaged them up for that purpose, which made it simple.

Juanito

Menswear brand: Man 1924. I have 5 blazers plus pants, scarves, shirts, sweaters, hats, shoes and belts. Some of the stuff from this store is still in rotation after 15 years.

Favourite product bought last year: blue sports jacket from Sastrería Bernal in Vitale Barberis hopsack. I thought the tone was too light, yet I get compliments from random people. Ideal-width notch lapels, 2 buttons and 2 sleeve buttons. I can be driving or sitting at my desk and it still feels great.

Sastrería Bernal in Madrid, near Plaza Mayor. I had not been there for over a decade, then I was at a well known tailor and he mentioned that Eladio (the father) had passed so I returned and commissioned a sports jacket. Javier has the perfect balance of opinion / advice. I have a winged scapula and other asymmetries but you would never know when wearing one of their suits.

Best Main Street brand – Uniqlo – yes the basics (casual socks in every color, perfect t shirts) but also the collabs. I have a fleece cardigan collab with White Mountaneering which is (abu)used for years by me, wife and kids. Really toasty, comfy and with perfect pocket placement.

Will
  1. Favourite menswear brand – Sid Mashburn – I’ve been a customer for many years. The staff in the Atlanta store were the people who introduced me and taught me a lot about menswear when I was in my early 20s. The brand provides a blend of American and European styles perfect for an American living in Europe.
  2. Favourite product – Track Zip Jacket in Kelly French Terry from Sid Mashburn. I spotted this while having a beer with the manager of the men’s side of the Dallas store while my wife was trying on shirts and dresses on the women’s side (Ann Mashburn). I was on Easter holiday in Dallas where the mornings were cool, plus everyone in Texas dramatically over air conditions indoor spaces. I realized it was the perfect thing: soft enough for indoor wear, easy to wear with kids to the playground, and a fun springtime colour. I wore it constantly on that trip and through the summer back in London.
  3. Favourite artisan – Simone Abbarchi – Shirtmaker – Florence. I found Simone through PS and first met him at his shop in Florence. He’s been making shirts for me for a few years now. We made some tweaks after the first shirt and I’ve liked everything I’ve had made since. The fit and quality have been great for me. I love being able to choose fabrics and styling.
  4. Mainstream brand – Balibaris – I discovered this French label at Galleries Lafayette in Paris. They have a well coordinated colour palette such that you can easily put together an outfit from the various pieces you might have from them. I’ve been very happy with the cotton chinos in several colors, wool jumpers, and a duffel coat which have held up well with frequent wear. I’ve not been so impressed with a few shirts and no longer buy shirts from them..
  5. Best repair or maintenance experience – Last year I had my Alden black captoe oxfords resoled at The Valet in Piccadilly Arcade (recommended by PS). They were my first really good quality shoe purchase (from Sid Mashburn) and I’ve taken good care of them. It was so nice to receive them back refreshed and ready for many more years of wear.
Peter D

My favourite brand is Hebtroco, who make a point of having all their clothes manufactued in Britain. While not tailored or made-to-measure, their combination of high garment quality and occasional quirkiness at a reasonable price is very attractive.
Hebtroco are based in Yorkshire, and only sell mail order but are very good with returns and exchanges. Over the last 5 years or so I have bought several pairs of trousers, a shirt, and a wonderful thick sweater from them as well as minor items like socks and hats.

Michael

1. Trunk Clothier. The service is always dialled to 100. They styling is rock solid and the quality is very good. It is true menswear 101.

2. Ciardi Ulster coat. Expensive but beautiful and instantly recognisable for all the right reasons.

3. Obviously Ciardi. Enzo and Giovanni are a delight to worth with and their craftsmanship is up there with the best. They also just cut beautiful clothes.

4. Does Drakes qualify? Another more expensive, but equally tasteful brand.

5. Edward Green resoling. Efficient and done beautifully, it is well worth the price.

Joel

1. Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now: This is a tough one. I will give the nod to The Armoury as I have purchased more from them recently. The fit of their jackets are as good as it gets off the rack and the thought they put into each style is well noted. I have to pick up garments when they are on sale, but they can be worth it in the long run. Honorable mention goes to Drakes. Again, I have to pick them up second hand or on extreme sale but I have never been disappointed with the quality or design of Drakes.
2. Your favourite product you bought last year: My custom Polo Ralph Lauren Soft Tailored sport coat in a green horse blanket tweed that is pretty similar to the PS Plaid cloth. It was ordered from Wm. King in Bristol, Tennessee (wonderful store) and the fit and cloth are just right on.
3. Your favourite artisan in the world: My current favorite would be Sergy @Tightly_Stitched. His belt work is such a great blend of artisanship, creativity, and ruggedness. He is also very willing to listen to the customer and offer great suggestions. Honorable mention, Bleu De Chauffe: Great bags with ruggedness and refinement for a great price.
4. Your favourite mainstream brand: Honestly, I have to say Polo Ralph Lauren. Two of my favorite purchases last year were Polo and the jackets they have put out recently have been on point. The fabrics they offer are really hard to beat for originality, the details are often unique, and their button down oxfords have started to embrace more collar roll and ivy style notes. Just size up and long for tailoring and you will be right on. Also, the custom pieces have moved the production back to the USA.
5. Your best repair or maintenance experience: Jim McFarland of McFarland’s Shoe Repair. He keeps my soles and shoes looking great. His customer service is really top notch. Honorable mention would go to Wazin in NYC and RAVE FabriCARE.

Spencer
  1. Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now. The Anthology. Quality products, nice styling/versatility, affordable prices, excellent customer service. Close second, of course, Rubato. And PS is a serious contender as well.
  2. Your favourite product you bought last year. Oatmeal herringbone tweed (thanks PS) jacket from the Anthology.
  3. Your favourite artisan in the world. Although I don’t own anything, I would say Stoffa for their vision.
  4. Your favourite mainstream brand. Luca Faloni.
Hieu Chu

Here is my list:
Favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why

  • It has to be Bryceland’s. I love how they blends tailoring with western style clothing. It flavors the current menswear’s scenario deeply. The way Ethan dresses also inspired me in lots of fabric selections and colorway.

Favourite product you bought last year (still why)

  • A bespoke jacket made from Maison Hellard’s linen, one of the greatest fit I have ever had and the cloth is amazing.

Favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these)

  • Sartoria Corcos – I believe his garments are on the same bar with greatest tailors in Italy, the true essence of elegant.

Favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores)

  • United Arrows
Andrew Poupart

Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why
Edward Green. I have come to realize that the 202 last, especially as a Dover, is the best-fitting, most comfortable ready-to-wear shoe for me. I’ve never bought a pair of shoes from Edward Green that were a disappointment. Best leather, best last, best craftsmanship.
Your favourite product you bought last year (still why)
Edward Green Halifax chukka boot in mink suede. I bought these because the Halifax is a comfortable boot (it’s a boot version of the Dover), but they far exceeded my expectations. I took them on a safari trip to South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe and they performed superbly well.
Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these)
Graham Thompson, of Optimo Hats. Simply the best hats made in the world today, and a person who is passionate about his craft.
Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores)
I don’t have one that I buy from regularly.
Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever)
In November I smashed my Rolex Oyster Perpetual 39. Rolex repaired in about 5 weeks, for much less than I was expecting, and it looks brand new.

Stamos
  1. Favourite Menswear Brand – Informale. Just really great clothes, especially the trousers (which seem generally harder to find), and made in Melbourne! Excellent service too
  2. Favourite Product – Mawson Ossa semi-bespoke 4×2 DB suit in dark navy high-twist wool. The coolest, best fitting suit I have owned.
  3. N/a
  4. Favourite Mainstream Brand – Lemaire
DF
  1. Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why – That I actually wear: The Real McCoys. Plenty of their stuff is too anachronistic for my taste, but the stuff that isn’t is well made, hard wearing, great design and materials. That I like to look at but it’s more expensive than I’m willing to pay for things I’ll actually wear: Thom Sweeney.
  2. Your favourite product you bought last year (still why) – Either a Real McCoys denim shirt, or an Auralee tweed bomber
  3. Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these) – Used to be Equus, but now that they’re gone I don’t really have one
  4. Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores) – Probably Orlebar Brown, because their Sebastian pique polo has been a staple of mine for years. I don’t like much of their other stuff though.
  5. Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever) – N/A
Jeff H

1. Rubato – high quality, great fit, great styling
2. Brut Barbour – perfect fit, got me back into waxed cotton
3. Sartoria Corcos, Kotaro Miyahira – the most attentive tailor
4. Lemaire
5. N/A

Ramon
  1. Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why: Drakes. I love the style and the excellent quality of their products. Also, they are are more than simply a fashion setters.
  2. Your favourite product you bought last year (still why): Alden Long Wing Blucher in Snuff Suede. Goes well with everything and its quality is superb.
  3. Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these): could be Cassiani tailor in Venezuela. He does an excellent work for a fraction of the American or European tailors.
  4. Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores): Ralph Lauren RRL
  5. Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever): a shoe repair shop in Toulouse.
Martin B

Brand: Zegna for jackets, knitwear, pants
Favourite product: Overshirt due to its versatility, also is great for layering

Axel K
  1. My favourite menswear brand in the world right now is Bryceland’s. I’ve been to the store in Tokyo and there was nothing I didn’t want to leave with. Their products look fantastic in almost every situation.
  2. My favourite product I bought last year is my PS bridge coat and my Double Helix 1930s jacket. Sorry, can’t pick one.
  3. Favourite artisan in the world: The perfume I reach for most often at the moment is Tom Ford – Oud wood. (Is that then technically Richard Herpin?)
  4. Favourite mainstream brand: Ralph Lauren. Same as with Brycelands really – you can get an entire outfit from them and be happy. Their concept looks are often fantastic for inspiration. Good brand to look for second hand.
  5. Best repair or maintenance experience: my own shoe polishing sessions! I’ve gotten quite good at it if I may say so myself. It’s relaxing and rewarding. I even find myself fixing shoes for friends and family.
Marc

1. Drake’s – they are still my favorite, after many years. I like how they often find that sweet spot between traditional and contemporary, i like the diversity of the products and I like the quality. I don’t like the price though.

2. Drake’s Waxed Coverall Jacket – I needed a new wax jacket and this one ticks all the boxes for me. Quality of materials and make, functionality and style.

3. Private White VC, but I am not sure if they fall under that category.

4. I don’t buy mainstream clothing.

5. I am still looking for a good clothing repair service in Switzerland. Recommendations are very welcome.

Fllynn

1. Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why:
– Private White V.C. – Was a toss up between this & Rubato, both have practical pieces that I can wear to work and casually. If I’m being honest, Rubato’s quality might be slightly have an edge for some pieces (especially their knitwear). But, I’m a sucker for outwear and only PWVC has consistently such practical and smart outerwear.

In the end, I also picked PWVC for their more extensive range, online shopping experience and frequent discounts.

2. Your favourite product you bought last year (still why):
– Dark indigo selvedge denim jeans from Japan Blue Jeans. Haven’t worn them much yet (hopefully will get wear out of them before my waist balloons), but also for the sentimental value (reminding me of a great day out in Tokyo with my wife and little one on a lovely sunny spring afternoon, topped off with karaoke!).

3. Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these):
– Really limited experience with artisans… but Seiji McCarthy. Had the pleasure of meeting him and commissioning bespoke loafers during the same Japan trip. The whole experience was wholesome and organic. Shoes look amazing, too.

4. Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores):
– As many have already said – Uniqlo.
While I have many high-end clothes, nearly all require dry cleaning and fine clothing and a toddler frequently don’t mix. They have a good mix of basics, including for summer holidays (linen-cotton pants, shorts, linen collared shirts and the supima T-shirts are more than okay).

5. Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever):
– Lovely older lady dressmaker who does all my alterations (she can also make bespoke tailoring) but there is nothing she can’t do – I send her everything and she’s always good for a chat, too!

Other Aaron

I’ve never seen rubato knitwear in person – what is it about their quality that is great?

Shane

Your favourite menswear brand in the world right now, and why
– Another vote for Rubato here. Great quality and style, and can be worn very casually or smarter. I enjoy the ivy influence without overdoing it.
– Joint first place is the Anthology. I am both a bespoke and RTW customer of theirs and a huge fan of both. Buzz and his team are fantastic and couldn’t be more helpful.
– I also love everything in the Anderson and Sheppard Haberdashery (probably my favourite shop in the world) and Anglo Italian continue to feature heavily in my wardrobe. And Brycelands, obviously !

Your favourite product you bought last year (still why)
– Probably my Anthology PS Oatmeal tweed sport coat. Had been eyeing it for ages and couldn’t be happier with it.
– Runners up are Rubato Officer chinos and a Rocky Mountain Featherbed Christy that I picked up on Marrkt.

Your favourite artisan in the world (OK why for all of these)
– The only bespoke service I have used is the Anthology and as mentioned they are great. I think everything that Anderson and Sheppard do, whether bespoke or in their RTW collections is fantastic and while I have not used their bespoke service (someday…) I consider them true artisans.

Your favourite mainstream brand (definition: more than 10 stores)
– Ralph Lauren. No one does styling better. The stores always look incredible, and the editorials amazing. Plus the bears are the best dressed people in menswear.

Your best repair or maintenance experience (anywhere, ever)
– Danny Geoghan tailors in Dublin have been the only people I trust with alterations for years now and they have always provided a fantastic service !
– Also want to highlight Stephen (@shoeshineuk) who managed to salvage a pair of shoes for me which had a big oil mark on the toe box. They now look better than ever ! He was efficient, friendly and skilled and I couldn’t recommend him enough.

Jamie Berry

Best repairs: two nominations if permitted. Buckleigh in Lower Sloane St London can transform moth-eaten sweaters, over loved shorts, pretty much anything. At the other end of the scale – Hermes. I returned a document case used daily for years as the zip was partly broken and needed fixing. Said item returned to Paris, then back to me in London in a cloth pouch and orange box. No charge – ‘we don’t charge for repairs of our leather goods.’

Andy

Wow…..they’re really difficult questions as most of the things I’ve purchased in the last year have been vintage/2nd hand.
1) Kestin Hare in Scotland (nice casual & good quality fabric).
2) My MTM Stewart Christie tweed trousers. Classic look & only I have them.
3) Pajotten, who make great comfy every day clothes for scruffy artists.
4) Toast (love the fabrics)
5) My bespoke (for someone else) tweed jacket which I paid <£220 to buy & get adjusted for me! Looks great.

Andres Lucas

I would say Joe Holsgrove in the UK has become my go to tailor. A 2 time winner of the Golden Shears, and someone who has worked with the legendary Malcolm Plews, he has a bright future ahead.

There is a ton of finalists though, including Davies, Henry Poole, Anderson and Sheppard, Camps de Luca, Calvo de Moura, Richard Anderson, Daniel Levy (close second), and the legendary Terry Haste at Kent and Haste

Mainstream brand. I am not sure CESARE ATTOLINI is at 10 stores yet, but I will put them down for this. Still one of the God Fathers of Italian tailoring. Loro Piana is timeless and will always be close to the top.

My favorite product bought last year is a white rain coat from CESARE ATTOLINI. Just spectacular.

Favorite Artisan in the world. Rexhep Rexhepi is arguably the greatest young watch maker in the world today. A true perfectionist, I fully expect him to be on the Mount Rushmore for watch makers when it’s all said and done.