house of swaine
Journal
CHOOSING YOUR BRIGG UMBRELLA
When choosing a Brigg umbrella at Swaine, you’re not just selecting a practical accessory; you’re investing in a piece of heritage, craftsmanship, and style. The size of the umbrella plays a crucial role in how it complements your lifestyle and personal needs.
THE WHITEHALL: A Modern Take on a Traditional Design
At Swaine London, tradition and modernity coexist seamlessly in every piece we create. The Whitehall is a perfect example of this balance, drawing inspiration from the classic "doctor's bag" while incorporating contemporary functionality for the modern professional.
CHOOSING YOUR FELT: RABBIT VS BEAVER
When selecting a hat, the choice of felt can significantly impact its appearance, durability, and performance. At Herbert Johnson, we craft hats using the finest rabbit and beaver felts, each with unique qualities that cater to different needs and preferences.
BEHIND THE CRAFT
THE MAKING OF A HERBERT JOHNSON POET HAT
From raw materials to the finishing touches, the creation of our iconic Poet Hats at Herbert Johnson is a testament to the heritage of traditional hat-making and the dedication we have to both craft and sustainability.
Bridle Leather vs. Calf Leather
When you step into the world of luxury leather goods at Swaine London, you’ll discover that we proudly use both bridle and calf leather in our handcrafted products. But what sets these leathers apart, and how do they cater to different styles and needs?
Behind the Craft
the making of the salisbury folio
At Swaine, the art of crafting leather goods is steeped in tradition, innovation, and meticulous attention to detail. One of our standout creations, the Salisbury Document Case, is a testament to this legacy—carefully considered for professionals who appreciate quality and timeless design.
Meet the Artist: Alexis Bruchon
At Swaine we have worked with a talented illustrator to make our rich history come to life. Alexis Bruchon is a French illustrator from Clermont-Ferrand, surrounding volcanoes where he draws his inspiration.
The Best Umbrella Types
Brigg & Co. have been royal umbrella makers since the company’s founding in the 19th century and remain the most decorated umbrella manufacturer in the UK.
Crafting Signature Candles
In a quest for olfactory perfection, the House of Swaine embarked on an extraordinary journey to Robertet, nestled in the fragrant hills of Grasse, France.
Tom O'Dell On Swaine
Tom O’Dell is a creative director, menswear stylist and brand consultant. We recently had a conversation in regards to our share appreciation for handcrafted heritage products.
Personalise Your Heritage Piece
Personalised bags, umbrellas, and leather goods add to the uniqueness of your accessories while celebrating the history and tradition of British craftsmanship.
A hatter, not a milliner
While a milliner creates decorative headwear with the intent to embellish and adorn, a hatter creates headwear that serves a purpose. At Herbert Johnson, we specialise in the latter.
As Seen In: Singin' in the Rain
The master-craftsmen at Swaine created a two-piece "Brigg" Umbrella, with a whangee bamboo crook handle and a canopy covered in black silk, for one of cinema's best musical dance scenes of all time.
As Seen In Indiana Jones
Swaine's very own distinguished historic hatters, Herbert Johnson, created the hat of one of popular cinema's most enduring iconic heroes.
As Seen In: From Russia With Love
Swaine is famous for making bespoke luggage for Aston Martin owners, so of course, the company was more than obliging in producing 007's case too.
