By Micah Jonah
January 18, 2026
British tailor, Nina Penlington says suits are still very relevant, especially when it’s worn in confidence, for comfort. After leaving a career in the British civil service, she trained on Savile Row, later launched her own bespoke tailoring brand from southwest England, building a loyal customer-base that values craftsmanship and personal style.
Penlington explains that her journey into tailoring started with childhood sewing lessons from her mother, later growing into a passion for pattern cutting, garment structure. Her time working with top Savile Row cutters, especially Davide Taub of Gieves and Hawkes, shaped her approach towards creating suits which balance tradition with individuality.
She believes customers today want clothing that feels personal and powerful, not just fashionable. Her Beatles inspired Get Back suit represents a timeless classic look, while her Western style suit reflects her love for vintage influences and rugged fabrics. For her, these designs are ways to help clients connect emotionally with what they wear.
On the idea of dressing for the male or female gaze, Penlington says people should dress for themselves first. She encourages clients to choose suits that fit naturally into their existing wardrobe, rather than buying new outfits just to match one garment.
Looking ahead, she rejects the idea that Savile Row or tailoring is dying. Instead, she says tailors are adapting by creating garments that work for more casual lifestyles while still maintaining high standards of craftsmanship and sustainability. She adds that many people are beginning to realize that expensive brand name suits cannot match the quality and personal value of bespoke tailoring.
In her view, as long as people appreciate well made clothing, want garments that truly belong to them, tailoring will continue to thrive.
