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Abercrombie to destroy Savile Row?
Sunday 19th August 2012 | Osh
News that Abercrombie planned to open a new store on the “golden mile” of tailoring, the infamous Savile Row, was met with anger and dismay by locals and workers from the area. However, it seems the plan to open the store may be in jeopardy as Westminster Council has stepped in and put a stop to Abercrombie throwing a party to celebrate it’s launch.
Abercrombie and Fitch, American casual-wear retailer, would definitely be a contrast to say the least to the traditional and prestigious tailors of Savile Row. Amidst the fake palm trees and decking setting the “authentic surfer experience”, young girls can get their photo taken with Abercrombie models whilst shopping for extortionately expensive polo tops emblazoned with the Abercrombie branding which, for the record, was bought off an authentic old American hunting company when it was forced to close in the seventies. In contrast, Savile Row has been building up its world-renowned status as the place to get a bespoke suit since 1846. The tailors of Savile Row are second to none and historically they can boast customers such as Winston Churchill and Lord Nelson. Obviously, times have changed since then but this goes beyond the usual planning permission bicker; this is a clash of class and taste.
A spokesperson from Westminster Council commented, “Savile Row has a unique character - currently there are no high-street chains present. A management plan should be put in place to ensure this character is retained." Back in April supporters of Savile Row made their case clear by donning their suits and protesting against the Abercrombie invasion, carrying banners saying “Give three-piece a chance”. The fate of Savile Row now rests in the public planning inquiry that is to be held on an unconfirmed date.
Rachel Thom @ThomRachel
