From vision to masterpiece: Charting the personalised journey of a bespoke Swaine creation
Swaine is best-known as the brand behind some of cinema's most iconic accessories, but its private clients are afforded just as much personalised attention as the likes of Harrison Ford and Sean Connery
Words: Aobh O'Brien-Moody
In association with:
Even if you’re not familiar with the name Swaine, you’ll be familiar with its goods. Established in 1750 as a whip and saddlery maker, the British heritage brand grew to become the go-to supplier of hats, umbrellas and luggage for some of the 20th century’s most iconic films and television shows, such as The Avengers, The Man Who Fell to Earth, Dr Who, My Fair Lady, Mary Poppins and Singin’ in the Rain.
As British as James Bond, Swaine is responsible for kitting out Sean Connery’s 007 with his sleek leather attaché in the on-screen adaptation of Ian Fleming’s From Russia with Love. Within its distinctive red skiver lining, the attaché hid 20 rounds of ammunition and gold coins, plus the flat throwing knives that proved vital in Bond’s battle with villain Red Grant aboard the Orient Express.
Harrison Ford wearing Swaine in Indiana Jones
David Bowie wearing Swaine in The Man Who Fell to Earth
Patrick Macnee wearing Swaine in The Avengers
If Bond isn’t your bag, how about Indy? Herbert Johnson of the House of Swaine is proud to be the original maker of the iconic Indiana Jones Poet hat, worn by Harrison Ford and still made to order today. Or, there’s the iconic Peaky Blinders flat cap, which can also be credited to the clever craftspeople of Swaine.
Yet, despite its rather starry reputation as cinema’s favourite accessory maker, Swaine continues its commitment to providing completely tailored experiences to individual clients. Engrained in its DNA is the art of bespoke. From the first consultation to the final product, all bespoke journeys look different. Initial conversations are aimed at understanding the distinct emotions wishing to be conveyed and the significant life moments hoping to be encapsulated within the creation. Mood boards, pictures and even the client’s own sketches can be provided to further personalise the experience.
The next step is material selection, when the client selects the materials and leathers that will bring their vision to life, using swatches to fully experience each material’s tactility. From then, a series of discussions between maker and client take place, resulting in appropriate design adjustments to ensure the final piece aligns perfectly with the original vision. These discussions can unfold through in-store appointments, email exchanges, phone calls and even home visits, ensuring a seamless and personalised experience.
Finally, Swaine’s skilled artisans get to work, beginning the meticulous process of creation to bring the unique vision to life. The final result – be it hat, umbrella, trunk or briefcase – is much more than a mere accessory, it’s a reflection of the client’s identity, an extension of their character – much in the same way that Indy’s hat and Bond’s attaché are.
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