Norton & Sons

Overview

Norton & Sons is a Savile Row bespoke tailor founded in 1821, specializing in sporting and lightweight tailoring for adventurers and high-profile clients. It offers bespoke, made-to-measure, and womenswear services from its location at 16 Savile Row. The firm has historical Royal Warrants and connections to designers, producing around 300 bespoke suits annually.

History

Founded in 1821 by Walter Grant Norton on London's Strand as a sporting tailor for city businessmen and German royalty. Moved to Savile Row in the 1860s; incorporated houses like Hammond & Co, E. Tautz & Sons; held Royal Warrants to multiple monarchs and dressed figures like Winston Churchill and Cary Grant. Acquired in 2005 by Patrick Grant, who revitalized it and relaunched E. Tautz; majority stake sold post-COVID to James Sleater and Ian Meiers, with Grant retaining minority interest.

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Products are handmade in-house at their Savile Row workshop in London by a small team of tailors and cutters. Specializes in traditional English techniques with expertise in lightweight, unstructured constructions. No evidence of outsourcing.

Notable Products

• Winston Churchill Dinner Suits - Custom formalwear and racing silks made for the young Winston Churchill.
• Lord Carnarvon Expedition Suit - Lightweight suit worn by Lord Carnarvon when opening Tutankhamen's tomb.
• Royal Warrant Suits - Garments holding ancient warrants to British monarchs and European royalty.
• Cary Grant Suits - Tailoring for actor Cary Grant, exemplifying classic Hollywood style.
• E. Tautz Ready-to-Wear - Relaunched line under Patrick Grant, blending heritage with modern design.

Reputation

Among tailoring enthusiasts, Norton & Sons is respected for its 200-year heritage, Royal Warrants, and sporting tailoring legacy, particularly lightweight suits. Professionals note its small-scale production and revival under Patrick Grant, though some mention challenges during COVID leading to ownership change. Balanced view acknowledges strong historical prestige but relatively low volume compared to larger Savile Row houses.