7 of the best Thames Valley tailors

A century ago, anyone in the market for formal attire of any kind would save up and pay a visit to their friendly local tailor. That's not so much the case anymore, at least not for the vast majority of us.

Tailoring may not be quite as popular, with off-the-rack suits outselling bespoke efforts by some way in 2022, but those artisans that are skilled with a needle and thread are still very much in demand. Much of their work now coming in the form of alterations to pre-existing garments or special one-off commissions.

The Thames Valley has some of the finest tailors outside of London's Savile Row. Here we present seven of the area's very best...

1, La Sartoria - Reading

Running for six years now, Francesco Grande and his wife Ilenia Mocci bring decades of experience to Reading town centre's finest tailors. Repairs, bridal, alterations and bespoke items, La Sartoria offers an unusual level of Italian flair to sartorially-minded Reading folk.

'We have a successful team of tailors and seamstresses in our studio in the heart of Reading, Berkshire. We are recognised for meticulous attention to detail and reasonable prices, and we take pride in always providing excellent customer service.'

2, Goodrich Bespoke - Wokingham

Anyone in Wokingham or its surrounding area knows that if you need any item of clothing creating, taking in or out or repairing with personality and style, you go to Kelly at Goodrich Bespoke.

'In 2011 Kerry established Goodrich Bespoke, making her personalised services available for all by providing a much needed bespoke tailoring and clothing alterations service to the Wokingham area. In doing so, Kerry set out to overturn the traditional conventions of the industry, transforming the bespoke experience into an comfortable, relaxed, informal, and possibly even fun experience.'

3, Walters - Oxford

Very few businesses can boast of more than 150 years of experience in their field. Walters of Oxford can, though. Given its position in the centre of The City of Dreaming Spires, it won't comes as a surprise to learn that Walters specialise in ceremonial gowns for the city's university's students. Of course, their small team of expert tailors are also experts at creating and altering other types of formalwear too.

'At Walters you don’t just find the finest quality clothing, you will find friendly personal attention too, and a genuine interest in your requirements. On such has our reputation been built.'

4, Clements and Church - Beaconsfield and Oxford

With two boutiques in the Midlands (Birmingham and Leamington Spa) and two in the Thames Valley, Clements and Church have built a small but formidable chain of respected high-end tailors. Beaconsfield's headed up by the aptly-named lead tailor Josh Gear, while Ian Roper is head tailor in Oxford.

'We have a reputation for beautifully finished tailor made bespoke suits and garments using luxurious fabrics with special attention to detail. Getting the perfect tailored fit is all important, whether it’s for the ultimate special occasion — the groom’s bespoke wedding suit — or an everyday working wardrobe. Made to measure jackets, custom made shoes, bespoke jeans. With our custom made collection there is the freedom to create bespoke looks that are unique to you.'

5, Tom Brown - Eton

There is serious history with Eton's Tom Brown, a tailors which has been a family business running for over 235 years. Making it one of the oldest active tailors in Britain. That's serious heritage. Not that Tom Brown trades off it. Their dedication to quality tailoring means it does its incredible history proud with its work today.

'Tom Brown is today a flourishing bespoke tailors; one which takes great integrity and passion in the quality of its workmanship. Remaining true to the values upon which it was founded, the focus remains on retaining a calm and inviting social environment, where one can feel relaxed and at home during their visit. We ensure each visitor is treated and respected equally, and shown the courtesy they are entitled to, doing our utmost to be of assistance regardless of the proposition we are given.'

6, Ambers - Amersham

Ambers of Amersham is a traditional tailors that was founded by Carla Cameron, an ex-Dior model, some years back and is now run by Carla’s son, Alistair. Its home is a stunning 15th century mill in Old Amersham.

'Ambers is very proud of our personal service to assist you in choosing that special outfit for every occasion. Perhaps Mother of the Bride, a special wedding, a day at the races, a smart executive look or something fabulous and casual. Our aim is to guide you to perfection. Part of Ambers’ service is an excellent alteration and fitting service, millinery, shoes and accessories. We also offer our River Room restaurant for afternoon tea, a light luncheon and that satisfying glass of champagne!'

7, Brook Harris - Olney

Buckinghamshire-based Brook Harris started off, as all good tailors must, as an apprentice back in 2008. Since then he has created thousands of bespoke items for his clients and built a successful clothing brand and tailoring business.

'Everything is subjective, so pinpointing each client’s expectations and needs is hugely important to establish exactly what they desire. I absolutely love seeing how my clients react when they try on their bespoke outfit for the first time.'

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