From Hand-Me-Downs to Heritage: My Journey with Fox Brothers Flannel

My journey with Fox Brothers began in the seventh or eighth grade, when a family friend's hand-me-downs introduced me to a world of luxury textiles I hadn't known existed. Among those fine tailored garments were pieces crafted from camel hair, cashmere, and most memorably, Fox Brothers flannel. Those early encounters sparked an obsession with tailoring that would shape not only my career path but my entire educational journey.

This fascination with fine textiles led me to the Fashion Institute of Technology, where I pursued a Bachelor of Science in Production Management Textiles. The program allowed me to dive into the very essence of what makes fabrics like Fox Brothers' flannel exceptional. I immersed myself in the study of yarn & fabric construction methods — mastering the technical intricacies that transform raw materials into luxury textiles.

This formal education complemented my practical experience, from appreciating the craftsmanship at Ralph Lauren to working directly with these storied fabrics at Gieves & Hawkes on Savile Row, where I witnessed firsthand how Fox Brothers' flannel transformed into the epitome of British tailoring excellence. When I finally toured the Fox Brothers facilities with West England, it felt like a dream realized – a full-circle moment that connected that wide-eyed eighth-grader to centuries of textile heritage, now enhanced by my comprehensive understanding of the science behind the art.

Founded in 1772 in Wellington, Somerset, Fox Brothers & Co. stands as more than just a textile mill – it represents the pinnacle of English flannel-making tradition. The company's journey from a modest weaving business to a global icon of luxury textiles is woven with threads of innovation, unwavering commitment to craftsmanship, and an enduring legacy that spans over two centuries. While officially credited with creating flannel for suitmaking in 1803, Fox Brothers' influence extends far beyond this achievement, touching everything from military uniforms to Hollywood's golden age.

The magic of Fox flannel lies in its meticulous creation process. Using superfine Merino wool sourced from premier Australian farmers, each length of fabric is crafted using traditional weaving techniques on slow looms – methods that have remained largely unchanged since the 1920s. This dedication to traditional craftsmanship results in flannel with an unmatched depth of character and luxurious drape that has earned devotees from Winston Churchill to Fred Astaire & Ralph Lauren.

The company's impact on fashion and culture cannot be overstated. During World War I, Fox Brothers produced an astounding 8,000 miles of khaki cloth weekly, while their flannel later became synonymous with Hollywood elegance through figures like Cary Grant. The phrase "If it's not Fox, it's not flannel" isn't just a slogan – it's a testament to the company's unrivaled position in the world of luxury textiles.

Today, under the stewardship of Douglas Cordeaux and Deborah Meaden since 2009, Fox Brothers continues to balance tradition with innovation. The mill maintains its heritage while adapting to contemporary demands, producing fabrics that grace the collections of high-end fashion houses and bespoke tailors worldwide. Each piece of Fox flannel represents not just a fabric, but a living piece of textile history – one that I've had the privilege to witness evolve from those first hand-me-downs to the present day.

Learn More About Fox Brothers

For those interested in exploring the world of Fox Brothers' flannel and heritage textiles, here are some valuable resources:

Visit & Shop

• Fox Flannel Merchant's Shop: www.themerchantfox.co.uk

• Fox Brothers & Co.: www.foxflannel.com

Further Reading

• "The Prince of Wales, Patronage and British Manufacturing" - Available at the V&A Museum

• "Fox Brothers and the Wellington Heritage" - Wellington Museum

• "British Textile Manufacturing" - The Museum of English Rural Life

Note: For current pricing, availability, and specific fabric inquiries, please contact Fox Brothers directly through their website. Factory tours may be available by special arrangement.

I'd love to hear about your own experiences with heritage textiles and what aspects of textile manufacturing interest you most. Are you curious about specific aspects of the production process? Would you like to learn more about particular periods in Fox Brothers' history? Or perhaps you'd enjoy a deeper dive into the technical aspects of flannel manufacturing? Share your thoughts and questions at [your preferred contact method] – your feedback will help shape future articles in this series about textile craftsmanship and innovation.

Until next time,
Will