Budd (shirtmakers)


Budd is a high-end tailor for shirts based in London's Piccadilly Arcade. Budd was founded in 1910, and is known to cater to many notable figures of British high society.

History

Budd was founded in 1910 by Harold Budd as an exclusively bespoke shirtmaker. Its original premises were located in Piccadilly Arcade, adjacent to Jermyn Street. After bombing during the Blitz, Budd bought premises opposite the original store, which were the only premises in the Arcade still standing. It is now the only original member of the Arcade still operating.
In 1983, Budd was acquired by the Webster Brothers, another British shirtmaker founded in 1847.
In 2013, Budd was acquired by a group led by Stephen Murphy, former owner of Saville Row tailor H. Huntsman & Sons and board member of the Brown Thomas Group.

Methods and products

Budd is known for its highly traditional British style of shirtmaking, and is described by Spear's as demonstrating "heroic resistance to change". It is said to be the only remaining shirtmaker with a cutting room still above the shop. The primary Budd workshop is located in Andover.
Budd's best known pattern is the Budd Stripe, also called the Edwardian Stripe, which dates to the 1930s. It is also known for the Mess Shirt, originally made for army officers.
Today, Budd sells ready-to-wear shirts as well as providing a bespoke service. It also sells accessories including scarves, gloves, ties and collars.

Known patrons

Budd shirts have also been worn by characters in film and TV, including Matt Smith in Doctor Who and Hugh Bonneville in Downton Abbey. Budd was referenced in the lyrics to the 1919 musical La La Lucille by George Gershwin.