Amidst a landscape littered with throwaway trends, independent labels that truly champion quality and craftsmanship have become shining beacons of integrity. As the churning tide of fast fashion leaves ever more waste and debris on its shores, these brands quietly dedicate themselves to creating garments that unite heritage, sustainability, and contemporary design – music to the ears of the discerning and dapper chap.



From century-old workwear specialists to innovative labels redefining everyday essentials, these brands champion slow fashion, prioritising quality over quantity – whether you’re after rugged outerwear, precision tailoring, or eco-conscious wardrobe staples.

Hero image: Yarmouth Oilskins

Here, we spotlight the very best, each with an abiding commitment to impeccable design.

Yarmouth Oilskins



With roots tracing back to 1898, Yarmouth Oilskins has long been a stalwart in producing durable workwear from its HQ in Great Yarmouth. Specialising in traditional, hard-wearing pieces, the brand melds time-honoured craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics, ensuring each piece resonates with its maritime heritage.

We love: The Engineer Jacket - Chalk Stripe, £170


Uskees



Founded in 2018, Uskees is a Manchester-based brand championing sustainable fashion. Emphasising timeless designs over trends, they produce versatile, durable pieces crafted from organic materials, appealing to the conscientious modern man who favours the classic workwear look.

We love: #3025 Canvas Chore Jacket – Gold, £77 (Was £110)


Tender Co Stores



Launched in 2009 by William Kroll, Tender draws inspiration from British workwear and industrial design. Each piece is meticulously crafted in England, using unique dyeing techniques and fabrics, resulting in clothes that are both functional and arty.

We love: Type 942 Lobster Tail Jacket, $735


Allevol



Founded in 2005, Allevol is a British-Japanese brand dedicated to elevating everyday wear. Merging Japanese craftsmanship with British style, they produce pieces that are both durable and stylish. We especially love the recent collaboration with Scottish knitwear company, Inverallan. Fun fact: co-founder Takashi Okabe is also the Director of Clutch Cafe London and Tokyo editor for Men's File magazine.

We love: Inverallan x Allevol Shawl Collar Indigo Black 6A, £295


Arthur Beale



Established over 400 years ago, Arthur Beale began as a humble rope-maker in London. Transitioning into a renowned outfitter, it now offers a selection of nautical-inspired menswear, reflecting its rich maritime legacy while catering to modern sartorial tastes.

We love: Puffin - The Wide-Striped Guernsey Jumper - Channel Jumper, £160


Asket



Established in 2015 in Stockholm, Asket is on a mission to redefine the concept of ‘less is more.’ By offering a permanent collection of meticulously crafted essentials, they promote a minimalist wardrobe, focusing on quality, fit, and sustainability. Clever.

We like: The Pique Poli. £75


Sir Plus



Founded in 2010 by Henry Hales, Sir Plus began by when he discovered that volumes and volumes of shirtmakers' surplus fabric ended up going to waste. The brand is founded on the idea of repurposing that ‘waste’ and transforming it into super stylish clothes. Genius, no? The London-based brand’s signature pieces all offer a contemporary take on British classics: think Nehru jackets and grandad shirts, all sustainably crafted.

We like: Green Harris Tweed Nehru Jacket, £455


Oliver Spencer



From his humble beginnings at Portobello Market as a self-taught tailor and shopkeeper, Oliver Spencer has built a brand around his vision: hand-crafted quality paired with stylish accents and details. The brand offers a uniquely British take on relaxed style: think traditional tailoring with modern aesthetics.

We like: Bradwell Jacket Cairnes Ecru, £269