NEW EMBRACE BOOSTS SALES

The Olympics, the Jubilee celebrations and such TV successes as Downton Abbey are given credit by Ede & Ravenscroft for helping to boost online sales of their accessories this year.

This old tailoring company, established in 1689, has embraced modern technology with a will, and reports a 21 per cent increase in their sales from the U.S., Germany and Australia in particular.

Popular items ordered include dresswear, braces, bow ties and pocket squares. And typically English styles in weekend jackets and shirts have also been winging their way around the globe.

From being quite an austere, reclusive company, Ede & Ravenscroft is now enjoying wider fame. Having had royal connections since providing the coronation robes for William and Mary back in 1689, and with a clutch of Royal Warrants, it has been particularly associated with the legal profession, supplying its traditional attire.

Recently however, it has opened up to a wider clientele, with a ready-to-wear collection that points up their ability to make styles other than the most classic in their bespoke work.

This season, their full accessories collection is online, combining traditional quality with a more fashionable approach. Brightly coloured scarves and pocket squares, bags to take computers and fun braces all show the way they, and the rest of Savile Row, are moving. A little late maybe, but these old firms are used to taking their time.

At top, silk scarf, price £175. Above, skull and cross bones brace, £59. Right, poacher bag, £195. www.edeandravenscroft.com

EXTRA SHOP FOR EXTRAS

CARRY a portrait of a loved one on your sleeve. Benson & Clegg offer cuff links that may feature such a portrait, or any other desired picture, that could be ready in time for Christmas.

In sterling silver, the links are coated with a layer of enamel onto which their artist will paint almost any conceivable design. This is then oven fired to seal the design.

The designs featured here show the complexity that can be achieved. Customers must provide the artwork to be copied and once the order is in process, the link will be finished within approx three weeks.

Chain versions, as here, cost £430, a T-bar £320. Go to www.bensonandclegg.com