Jennie Adamson

Tailor

Christian Sinibaldi ©Michelangelo Foundation

©Alun Callender

Understated elegance

Jennie creates one-of-a-kind bespoke suits
She makes everything by hand herself
She did an apprenticeship on Savile Row

When asked what makes a bespoke suit so special, Jennie Adamson speaks of the discrete elegance and confidence that a person wearing clothes uniquely made for them will radiate. More than the clothing itself, it is knowing they’re wearing something special that makes people carry themselves a little differently, and it’s that connection with the customer that Jennie loves. Having studied two different yet complimentary sides of tailoring, Jennie knows all there is to know about excellency: her apprenticeship as a bespoke tailor on Savile Row taught her the traditional way of working, while her studies in creative pattern cutting at Central Saint Martins University of Arts gave her the opportunity to develop her unique approach to making.

Interview

Christian Sinibaldi ©Michelangelo Foundation

Christian Sinibaldi ©Michelangelo Foundation

How do you create a suit?: I cut and make everything myself which means I have full control of each project from start to finish. It might not be the most efficient way to work, most tailors specialise and then work as a team, but it does mean that I never have to compromise.
What is special about your work?: Each piece I make is completely unique, made to fit the customer perfectly, and they are generally subtle and understated. When you see somebody wearing a bespoke suit, you will know instantly that it is special but might not be able to put your finger on why that is.
Do you remember your first creation?: The first suit I made was for my father, and I was so proud to see him wearing it. I would always encourage anyone that is learning the craft to make pieces for their friends and family in their own time, it is the best way to get ahead.
Can your craft be considered in danger?: I think there will always be a demand. My customers are not wearing suits because they have to, but because they want to, it is a passion for quality and high-end craftsmanship. And there is nothing quite like wearing something that has been made especially for you.

Jennie Adamson is an expert artisan: she began her career in 2008