Why Arterton Calls St James's Home
London's reputation for classic menswear owes much to the collective character of St James's. St James's developed a reputation not simply for luxury, but for sartorial craftsmanship. Tailors, shirtmakers, bootmakers, hatters, leatherworkers and accessory specialists have established business within the area; many serving generations of diplomats, military officers, royalty and private clients. Although Savile Row and Jermyn Street remain the district's most infamous addresses, Princes Arcade, discreetly positioned between Piccadilly and Jermyn Street, has long contributed to the fabric of this historic quarter.
Princes Arcade lies on the site formerly occupied by the Princes Hotel, which opened in April 1883. Designed by Edward Robert Robson, the building served as the headquarters for the Royal Institute of Painters in Water Colours. Between 1929 and 1933, the hotel and adjoining gallery buildings were extensively remodelled to facilitate the construction of Princes Arcade. Unlike its purely Victorian or Edwardian neighbours, Princes Arcade showcases unique Art Deco elements in harmony with traditional architecture.
The significance of the arcade lies not only in its architectural form but also in its geographical setting. Piccadilly has long been one of London's principal ceremonial and commercial thoroughfares, whilst Jermyn Street has, since the 17th century, been synonymous with shirt making, bespoke tailoring and the broader traditions of gentlemanly dress. Situated between these two historic streets, Princes Arcade occupies a distinctive position within St James's, forming an elegant connection between the neighbouring areas. Its location has enabled it to participate in the long-established network that has defined the district's reputation for craftsmanship and quality for generations. Although London's retail landscape has changed considerably over the decades, Princes Arcade has retained much of this original character. Following an extensive restoration by The Crown Estate in 2018, the arcade entered a new chapter, and in doing so, it has reaffirmed the principles upon which it was originally established.
Continuing the Tradition of St James's
While much of the surrounding district is devoted to the making of garments, at 12-13 Prince’s Arcade, Arterton occupies a complementary position within St James. Its focus extends beyond clothing itself to the preservation, maintenance and appreciation of the wardrobe itself from head to toe. The products at Arterton are developed in collaboration with workshops whose expertise is of the highest standards, and with this uncompromised respect for craftsmanship, Arterton proudly supplies 75% of Saville Row.
Arterton's commitment to craftsmanship is further reflected in its carefully curated partnerships. As the exclusive UK supplier of Yearn and Acme Shoemaker, it has introduced two exceptional shoemakers to the British market, each recognised for preserving traditional techniques while producing footwear of enduring quality. Hand-welted shoes are produced in limited quantities using artisinal techniques, exemplifying a commitment to quality that rewards a lifetime of wear. Garment care, shoe care, handcrafted wooden hangers and handcrafted shoes all form part of a philosophy that regards clothing as a lasting investment.
By championing the care and appreciation of fine menswear, Arterton contributes to a tradition that extends beyond the manufacture of garments and footwear into the broader culture of craftsmanship. Its presence within Princes Arcade reflects the core belief that well-made objects deserve to be maintained, valued and passed from one generation to the next. In doing so, it serves as a reminder that the enduring traditions of British menswear are sustained not only by those who create well-tailored garments, but also by those who preserve them.
