One of the things that I enjoyed the most as a blogger is that I get to interact with all sorts of interesting individuals from around the globe. Yesterday, I had the opportunity to attend the Permanent Style's pop-up opening party at Fortnum and Mason; and it was a great event.
Simon's pop-up shop is featuring different artisans whom usually do not travel outside their own country so this is definitely a great opportunity for those of you who are in London at the moment.
Sartoria Melina (above) is a family business based around Napoli that produces bespoke leather blazers as well as MTM and RTW ones. They are having their first London trunk show from the 20th-21st.
I had the opportunity to talk to Jolanda of Sartoria Melina to learn more about the process of making a bespoke leather jacket as well as the challenges of that. Since leather could not be fitted and also stitches would leave serious markings once they are on the jacket, they use canvas toile for their fitting process. It is particularly challenging as well since they would not be able to use iron to add structure of the piece like regular tailors.
However, seeing the jackets in person is truly amazing. For those of you who are interested, you could email jolanda@melinaemme.com for an appointment while they are still here.
Shibumi from Florence is being featured in the pop-up shop as well. Founded in 2012, it is a brand that produces high quality ties and pocket squares, as well as other garments and accessories. On top of that, they also do bespoke tailoring. I was particularly amazed by its handrolled Japanese-inspired pocket squares, truly unique.
J. Girdwood is another highlight of the pop-up shop. This is a brand founded by James Girlwood, designer and Permanent Style collaborator. It produces a wide-range of accessories as well. Its knitted ties are definitely something you should keep an eye on.
Fox Brothers is also being featured in the pop-up as well. The navy and the cream calvary twill fabric on the left is a special collaboration product between Fox Brothers and Permanent Style It would be a great opportunity if you want to have a look of their fabric books as well as some of their products.
The Fox Flannel Cricket White Trousers made by Pommella from Naples as well as other garments from The Merchant Fox would also be available for purchase directly at the pop-up.
Other brands such as Kirk Originals, Edward Sexton, Simpson London, as well as F. Marino are being featured similarly.