The history of DAKS Simpson began in 1894, when Simeon Simpson established a bespoke tailoring factory in Whitechapel in the City of London supplying top quality men’s clothing shops. Simeon Simpson was especially interested in the development of new and improved manufacturing techniques, and at the time of his death in 1932, handed this approach onto his son, Alec Simpson. In the early 1930’s, Alec decided to introduce a good quality ready-to-wear tailoring range and in 1934, invented the “self supporting” waistband, for which the company held the worldwide patent for many years. At the same time the brand name DAKS was created, derived from the words “Dad” and “Slacks”. Under the DAKS name, the company became the largest manufacturer of top quality menswear in Britain, selling throughout the world.
Alec decided that the company should have its own retail outlet, and in 1936, the store, Simpson Piccadilly was opened. In 1956, Simpson Piccadilly was granted the Royal Warrant of HRH The Duke of Edinburgh, followed by the Royal Warrant of HM The Queen in 1962 and HRH The Prince of Wales in 1983.

• Men ready-to-wear suit