Located on Eton High Street, Welsh and Jeffries has become a centrepiece of the local community. Its bespoke apparel and handmade tailoring has allowed the shop to develop a first rate reputation. Established in 1865, the shop is also renowned for its longstanding and close connection to Eton College, serving as the boys’ first port of call to acquire their infamous uniform.
In speaking to the tailor, John Paul, who has worked at Welsh and Jeffries for the past 5 years, it is clear that business thrives all year-round, with an unusual peak season in summertime. In July and August, the parents of the 200 or so new boys can be spotted heading to the store to kit out their sons.
The provision of services to Eton, also provides Welsh and Jeffries with the opportunity to create bespoke waistcoats for the prefects. Intricate artistic designs can be incorporated into the waistcoats front panels, whilst some boys opt for more contemporary styles, such as retro football shirts, a firm favourite with John Paul.
The shop has also, over the years, attracted some big names, including high-profile actors, journalists and military knights all coming in to purchase their goods.
Tufy Kazan, who has worked in the shop for 24 years recollected that Princes William and Harry used to come into Welsh and Jeffries when they were students at Eton. The owner described how his father and former owner; Elie Kazan used to host the two princes as excited tourists watched on from afar.
With the increase in mass produced clothes from lower cost markets, many have suggested that tailoring may be a dying art. In today’s world, suits are often bought pre-made and off the peg. Indeed, one of the shop’s tailors confirmed that there is little “training” available around the profession with few knowing how to “cut cloth”. Welsh and Jeffries commitment to continuing their 150-year tradition of producing handmade clothing has allowed the shop to thrive despite these many challenges.
With 10 to 20 customers coming in each day on average, John Paul spoke about the ongoing satisfaction that he gets from meeting a whole variety of “down to earth and interesting customers”. It is undoubtedly this personal service that will ensure that Welsh and Jeffries continues to dress the men of Eton for many more years to come.
