Threads of Tradition

The Alcester-based English tailors where bespoke suits are still made the traditional way

The team at Robinson’s Tailors (and office dog!) © Simon Whaley

“When I was a toddler,” says Lawrence Robinson, “Mum would sit me on her knee and operate the sewing machine pedals with her feet, while I made pockets and toys.”

Lawrence is the fifth generation of Robinson running the family’s bespoke tailoring business in Alcester, Warwickshire. With the family thread running back to the late Victorian era, many might assume Lawrence was always going to be a tailor. But it nearly didn’t happen.

“While I was at school,” Lawrence explains, “I got some work experience at a local travel agency, which I enjoyed. Then I got a Saturday job there, which eventually led to a YTS placement and later a full-time position.”

Robinson’s Tailors © Simon Whaley

After a few years, and the birth of his daughter, Jess, he reappraised his situation. His wife suggested he join his family firm and, in doing so, Lawrence continued his family’s bespoke tailoring heritage that dates back to 1885.

He began learning the same skills his father, Peter, had learned from Lawrence’s grandfather, John, known in the family…