@Walpole_UK
We recently got the amazing chance to preview Walpole British Luxury Showcase in New York at gorgeous The Glasshouses featuring a variety of British Luxury brands across fashion, beauty, and lifestyle! It was so great learning about the different brands and speaking with their founders. Some already being established in NYC, and others on their way there. With the holiday season approaching, read ahead for quality and some new on the market gifts for a friend, family member or even yourself!
If you haven’t heard of Walpole before, you will know of them now. They are essentially the go-tos when it comes to British Luxury, as a matter of fact, they are the “official sector body for UK luxury”. With over 270 British brands as members, they aim to promote and develop these exquisite brands, and what better place to do it, than New York City? Check out a few out below!
J.J. Corry Irish Whiskey
The Facts:
Award winning J.J. Corry Irish Whiskey was founded by Louise McGuane in 2015. Louise has resurrected the lost art of Irish whiskey bonding under the J.J. Corry name. The company is blending and maturing whiskey in a purpose-built bonded rackhouse on the McGuane family farm in Cooraclare, County Clare, on the West Coast of Ireland.
What We Learned:
‘The Chosen’, a 27 year old single cask, Single Malt Irish Whiskey, is the latest release from J.J. Corry. With only 100 bottles made, each is adorned with remarkable hand crafted art, and goes for $7,000.
The Savoy London
The Facts:
The Savoy London is the only luxury hotel on the River Thames, perfectly placed in the heart of one of the world’s most exciting cities. At the forefront of the luxury hotel scene for over 130 years, The Savoy London is constantly evolving to meet the needs of the modern traveler. The 267 rooms and suites accompany some of the most well-known restaurants and bars in London, alongside magnificent and varied meeting space. With exceptional service at the heart of everything, a Savoy experience is built on memories created and stories told across generations.
What We Learned:
The Savoy’s‘s bar, ‘American Bar’ had a popup at NYC’s Dante (#1 for The Worlds 50 Best Bars) this summer, so keep a lookout for when they might be back! The hotel itself has some of the best views of London, from its location you can see city astonishing landmarks like the London Eye.
Johnstons of Elgin
The Facts:
Alexander Johnston established the Elgin Mill on the banks of the River Lossie over two centuries ago, and in doing so founded a legacy of fine craft and exquisite fabric. For Johnston’s, luxury begins with outstanding craftsmanship, and using the highest quality, natural fibers in its cashmeres is of the utmost importance. Today, experience and tradition rooted in Johnston’s history have been passed down through generations to ensure they are preserved and represented in each and every item, and as the only manufacturer in Scotland able
to maintain the capability to take natural fibers from their raw state, each Johnston piece, from sweater to scarf, is perfected through its unique, one-of-a-kind process.
What We Learned:
Known for its high quality cashmere, Johnstons of Elgin has been around since 1797. For some context, this was the year Albany replaced New York City as the capital of New York! They have produced items for Hermes and Chanel, among others. This is their first home label, and can be found at Neiman Marcus.
Kathryn Sargent
The Facts:
Kathryn Sargent is the world’s only female Master Tailor. She is the only woman who has trained and attained the qualifications to make, cut and establish a business herself in order to hold this title. Kathryn is leading the next era of Savile Row bespoke tailoring houses at her eponymous business Kathryn Sargent Bespoke Tailoring. A piece by Kathryn Sargent is unique, she brings a woman’s eye, ear, and hand to the male dominated craft of traditional Savile Row tailoring. Breaking tradition, she offers tailoring for both men and women, with no segregation. Focusing on the needs of the client rather than a set house style, Kathryn advises and collaborates to create garments that bear some of her signature elements but are entirely individual to each client.
What We Learned:
Founded 8 years ago, Kathryn Sargent caters to both men and women. Each tailored piece takes into account the clients lifestyle for best use. She visits NYC in March, June and October, so be sure to get in touch, for your dream suit to become reality.
Lock & Co. Hatters
The Facts:
Established in 1676, Lock & Co. Hatters is the oldest hat shop in the world & one of the oldest family-owned businesses still in existence. Their luxury hats are not only borne out of fashion, but also functionality. No matter the customer, what they have all come to expect from Lock is the best: the best designs, the best fabrics, the best service. These principles were established at the beginning by founder James Lock and continue to be upheld by the 7th generation of the family, who still run the business from the same shop at No. 6 St. James’s Street today. Two royal warrants attest to their commitment to quality that is trusted.
What We Learned:
Another old timer, Lock & Co. Hatters has been around for 343 years, so they must be doing something right! As the oldest hat company in the world, they actually created the Bowler hat which has been worn by many all over the world throughout the centuries, including folks like Charlie Chaplin. You can choose what your heart desires over at Barneys, Todd Snyder and Matches Fashion. My favorite? The Escorial Wool Meredith fedora, pictured above.
London Sock Company
The Facts:
The London Sock Company was built on a belief that good socks can inspire confidence. At London Sock Company, they believe that pulling on a great pair of socks in the morning has the power to transform not just your style, but your state of mind. The founders created this brand in 2013 to help modern gentleman embrace their personality and be inspired to be the best version of themselves. Great socks aren’t just a finishing flourish on an outfit. They are the first steps to effortless style.
What We Learned:
Established in 2014, the London Sock Company carries colorful and patterned designs for everyone, without being too overbearing or flashy. You can buy them single or as a gift box.
Sabina Savage
The Facts:
Sabina Savage is a British range of luxury scarves and womenswear featuring stunning hand-drawn print designs on the finest silk, wool and cashmere. Illustrated and designed in the UK, her collectible pieces are all printed in Italy – produced to the finest quality and expertly printed and hand-edged by the renowned artisans of Como.
What We Learned:
You can find this beautiful collection of Sabina Savage scarves and jackets at Bergdorf Goodman. All artwork found on the pieces are also hand drawn by Sabina herself! Each collection, like the ‘Persian Pandemonium’ has a story behind it and its animals. This was another favorite brand of mine.
Molton Brown
The Facts:
Expertly blended in London, Molton Brown’s collection of signature fragrances, shower gels and hand care luxuries has claimed iconic status with vibrant colors and bold scents. Carefully sourcing ingredients from around the world, each creation is intricately composed by some of the world’s best perfumers for a truly indulgent and memorable experience. Molton Brown is proud to hold a Royal Warrant for the supply of toiletries by appointment to Her Majesty the Queen.
What We Learned:
Molton Brown designs follow a very art deco vibe, you can actually find alot of it in NYC 1930’s architecture. Find them in department stores like Saks Fifth Avenue, Lord + Taylor and Neiman Marcus. I was in love with their Bizarre Brandy Gift Set. Their 2019 advent calendar is out now!
Rapport London
The Facts:
Rapport offers the finest luxury British watch accessories and leather goods by combining four generations of craftsmanship and knowledge since 1898. Over a century later, the Rapport family continues its tradition of investing in technology and high-quality materials that ensures our commitment to produce the world class products you have come to expect. Rapport is your favorite accessory for your precious keepsakes.
What We Learned:
Rapport London carries the perfect stylish boxes to keep your timepieces safe while you travel. A few products even have a wireless charging station built in. Have an automatic watch? They’ve got you all set with their pristine watch winders.
Which brand has made it on your gifting list? Comment below!
