This season we are proud to welcome back a brand rooted in British heritage - Gloverall. Gloverall's roots trace back to the early 1950s, when it first established itself in Cricklewood, North West London. From the outset, the brand has been committed to selecting the highest quality fabrics and crafting their products exclusively here in the UK.
Gloverall - A Brief History
Gloverall faced challenging early years in the 1950s due to a post-war shortage of labour and materials. However, the brand gradually gained traction, with a growing number of civilian customers boosting sales. To maintain strict operational standards and quality control, Gloverall expanded, establishing factories in Hackney and Tottenham, London.
In late 1955, the company behind the brand, Dufflewear Ltd, opened a factory in a historic pre-Victorian building on Carter Lane in the City of London, marking the start of serious production. As the business continued to thrive, by 1960, Gloverall required more space to meet rising demand. However, a government policy blocked the establishment of a new factory in London, prompting the company to relocate. Ultimately, they settled in Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, for their next chapter.
Despite relocating to Wellingborough, Gloverall's connection with London was far from over. In the early 1990s, Wellingborough experienced a significant decline in its manufacturing workforce, prompting Gloverall to return to London in search of skilled workers and workshops to maintain production. The company chose Elthorne Gate in Pinner as its new base.
Many of Gloverall's artisans had honed their craft in London, and the city played a crucial role in preserving the brand's manufacturing in the UK, ensuring its heritage and reputation remained intact. In many respects, Gloverall's journey mirrors that of numerous other British brands with ties to London, whether through sourcing talent, materials, or drawing inspiration. London has consistently been integral to the success of both established brands and boutique labels alike.
History Of The Iconic Duffle Coat
The Duffle Coat originated in the 19th century, first introduced to the British Navy and later popularized by Field Marshal Bernard Montgomery during World War II. The iconic British-made version of the coat was infact created by Gloverall & they remain renowned for their Duffle Coat silhouettes to this day.
Initially designed in the 1850s by the outerwear manufacturer John Partridge, the duffle coat's distinctive features, such as its toggle fastenings, oversized hood, and boxy fit, suggest inspiration from the Polish 'frock' coat. The toggles, more practical than buttons, were especially useful for sailors who often had to fasten their coats with cold or gloved hands.
In addition to the toggles, the large patch pockets and durable construction were key elements that set the duffle coat apart from other casual outerwear. Early versions were made from Belgian wool in the town of Duffel, a coarse, thick material that provided essential protection against the harsh winds of the North Sea, making it a popular choice among the British Navy.
Shop our full Duffle Coat & Gloverall collection below, available online & in-store now at Stuarts London.
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