John Kent

“If you would be guided by me…” John Kent began his training as a 15 year old apprentice in the East End of London at Bernard’s Bethnal Green. After five years he transferred to the West End, furthering his knowledge of cassocks, frock coats and gaiters for the revered Ecclesiastical and Court tailor Adeney & Boutrey (estd 1775), where he made breeches for the then Archbishop of Canterbury.

In 1966 he moved to Military and Royal tailor Hawes and Curtis.

In 1966 he moved to Military and Royal tailor Hawes and Curtis, as a full cutter to Edward Watson- the then owner of Hawes and Curtis Ltd. Kent took over from Watson when he retired and became the Managing Director. It was here that he met shirtmaker Stephen Lachter and Junior Cutter Terry Haste. At this time The Duke of Edinburgh patronised Hawes and Curtis where Kent had the privilege of making for His Royal Highness. Kent continued to tailor for The Duke of Edinburgh KG up to his passing; his services have previously been recognised with the Royal Warrant.

In 1986 together with Stephen Lachter, Kent set up his own eponymous business. In 2010 they were joined by their old colleague Terry Haste and opened a shop in New Burlington Street before moving to large premises at number 7 Sackville Street. Clientele HRH Duke of Edinburgh, Sir Donald Sinden, Sir Alistair Cook, Sir Terence Rattigan, Burt Lancaster, Rod Steiger, Tony Curtis, Cary Grant, Bing Crosby, Lord Mountbatten and Arnaud Bamberger.