Turnbull & Asser

Overview

Turnbull & Asser is a British luxury menswear retailer specializing in bespoke and ready-to-wear shirts, ties, and tailored clothing. Established in 1885, the company operates from its flagship store on Jermyn Street in London's St James's area and holds a Royal Warrant from HM King Charles III. The brand is recognized for its handmade craftsmanship and has dressed successive Princes of Wales, political leaders, and cultural figures including James Bond in film.

History

Founded in 1885 by John Arthur Turnbull, the company was joined by Ernest Asser in 1893, establishing the partnership that defined the brand. Following John Turnbull's death in 1895, Ernest Asser led the company's expansion from a haberdashery into a full clothier. In 1903, the company relocated to its present location at 71-72 Jermyn Street. During World War I, Turnbull & Asser developed the Oilsilk Combination Coverall & Ground Sheet, a raincoat-sleeping bag hybrid for the British military. The company expanded internationally with its first U.S. store opening in New York in 1997, followed by Beverly Hills in 2003.

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Shirts and ties are manufactured in Turnbull & Asser's Gloucester factory in England, maintaining the company's made-in-England heritage. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Gloucester workroom was repurposed to produce medical-grade uniforms for NHS personnel. The company combines in-house production with bespoke tailoring services.

Notable Products

• Bespoke Dress Shirts - Custom-made shirts tailored to individual specifications, the cornerstone of the brand's offering
• Quorn Scarves - Named after The Quorn Hunt, a signature accessory line that became emblematic of the brand
• Oilsilk Combination Coverall & Ground Sheet - A WWI-era raincoat-sleeping bag hybrid developed for the British military, demonstrating innovative design
• Royal Warrant Shirting - Formal shirts created for significant royal occasions, including King Charles III's Coronation
• Ready-to-Wear Dress Shirts - Premium off-the-rack shirts combining quality craftsmanship with accessibility

Reputation

Turnbull & Asser is regarded as one of the finest gentlemen's shirtmakers globally, with a reputation built on meticulous craftsmanship and heritage spanning 140 years. The brand commands respect among discerning customers and professionals for its commitment to British tailoring traditions and quality materials. Its Royal Warrant status and association with prominent historical figures enhance its prestige. The company faced financial challenges in 2018 with reported losses, though it has maintained operations and continues to serve a niche luxury market.