When I first saw the website of Benson & Clegg, bespoke tailors in London's Piccadilly Arcade, I was struck by the large selection of buttons available. Made for blazers in particular, they usually stock some 150 different varieties representing some of Britain's most prestigious military and academic institutions, as well as a large range of historical and decorative designs.
Benson & Clegg's stand at the Coronation Festival this year at Buckingham Palace
Made from a variety of different metals, they are either engraved or made as a 3-D design, for which a die is made. Often called brass buttons, they are now rarely made from that metal, which tarnishes quickly. They can be gilt or plated metals, silver or bronze. Many finishes are available.
I love the traditional nature of these buttons and am planning to buy some for a blazer being made for me at the moment. B&C are often commissioned to design and make buttons for individuals, families, clubs and commercial organisations. See Benson & Clegg's website here and my earlier post on owner and Master Tailor, Ken Austin, here.
Some of the different types of button supplied by Benson & Clegg - Grey Fox image
The die, soft lead impression and final product - Benson & Clegg's Jubilee Button - Grey Fox image
Benson & Clegg buttons - Grey Fox image
Benson & Clegg buttons designed for a golf club - Grey Fox image
Surely not a Grey Fox button....?
