The History of Jack Bunney Limited: A Legacy of Tailoring Excellence Since 1958
The History of Jack Bunney Limited: A Legacy of Tailoring Excellence Since 1958
For over 65 years, Jack Bunney Limited has been synonymous with exceptional men’s formal wear, particularly in the realm of wedding suits. From humble beginnings in Essex to becoming a nationally recognised leader in wedding suit tailoring and suit hire, our journey reflects a commitment to quality, innovation, and timeless style. As we celebrate our rich heritage, we invite you to explore how this history shapes our current collections. Whether you’re seeking a made-to-measure wedding suit or hire options for your special day, visit www.jackbunneys.co.uk to discover our ranges and book a consultation today.
Early Beginnings: Founding in 1958
Jack Bunney Limited was incorporated on 17th of February 1958, marking the start of a remarkable story in men’s fashion. Founded by Jack Bunney himself, the business quickly established itself as a go-to destination for tailored clothing in Essex. In those early years, Jack focused on nurturing a loyal clientele of local business professionals, building a foundation based on superior craftsmanship and personalised service. This era laid the groundwork for our enduring values: attention to detail, quality fabrics, and a deep understanding of traditional tailoring techniques.
Our registered office in Barking, Essex, was the heart of operations, evolving from a simple tailoring shop to a specialist in formal attire. These roots influence our current offerings, such as our classic lounge suits and morning suits, which echo the timeless elegance of mid-20th-century British style. If you’re planning a wedding with a vintage theme, our heritage-inspired designs are perfect. Browse our hire collections at www.jackbunneys.co.uk to see how we blend history with modern comfort.
The 1970s: Building Expertise and Tradition
The 1970s brought new energy to the company when Peter joined straight from school. Working alongside skilled tailors and cutters, Peter immersed himself in the art of cloths, tailoring, and the traditions that define fine menswear. This period was crucial in solidifying our reputation for expertise, as we continued to serve generations of customers with bespoke solutions.
This hands-on apprenticeship style is still evident in our made-to-measure services today. At Jack Bunneys, we offer fabrics from the world’s finest mills, allowing clients to create suits that honour these traditional methods while incorporating contemporary trends. Whether it’s a tweed suit for a countryside wedding or a velvet tuxedo for evening elegance, our team ensures every piece is crafted with the same dedication. Schedule a fitting via www.jackbunneys.co.uk and experience this legacy firsthand.
The 1980s: Expansion and a New Chapter
The 1980s marked a transformative decade for Jack Bunney Limited. As the South East experienced economic boom, we evolved into a full-fledged men’s fashion retailer, introducing ready-made designer labels and launching our now-famous wedding hire department. This expansion catered to a more affluent clientele, reflecting the era’s vibrant consumer culture.
A pivotal moment came when Jack Bunney retired, selling the business to two dedicated employees: Terry and Peter. Under their leadership, we modernised operations while preserving core values. The hire service quickly became a cornerstone, offering high-quality suits for weddings and formal events without the commitment of purchase.
Today, this innovation lives on in our extensive hire ranges, including burgundy and forest green tuxedos – ideal for 2026 trends. Our hire packages include expert fittings and accessories, making it easy for grooms and groomsmen to look their best. Visit www.jackbunneys.co.uk to explore hire options and read client testimonials from over the decades.
The 1990s: Generational Transition and European Influence
Building on the momentum, the 1990s saw further growth as Rob, Peter’s son, joined from college. Working alongside his father, Rob became the creative force behind our designs, overseeing manufacture and photoshoots that showcased innovative wedding suits.
Terry and Peter continued to source the best European-made clothing, enhancing our collections with premium fabrics and styles. This era strengthened our hire service as the business’s mainstay, while introducing bolder elements like check patterns and double-breasted silhouettes.
These developments are mirrored in our current Monaco range, crafted from Italian Zignone fabrics for a luxurious feel. Perfect for modern grooms, these suits combine 1990s innovation with today’s sustainability focus. Head to www.jackbunneys.co.uk to view our made-to-measure options and customise your own piece.
Entering the Digital Age: 1999 and Beyond
In 1999, Marc joined the team, just as the internet began revolutionising retail. Post-millennium, Marc and Rob (Robert) became directors, steering Jack Bunney Limited into the digital era. We pioneered innovative website designs and social media marketing, transforming us into a nationally recognised brand for wedding suit design.
This shift allowed us to reach grooms across the UK, showcasing our attention to detail and trend-predicting prowess. Our online presence has made popular wedding suit images a staple on the internet, inspiring countless ceremonies.
The 2010s to Present: Leading the Industry
Over the last decade, Jack Bunney Limited has led the transformation of men’s formal wear. With Rob’s designs influencing the wedding industry and Marc’s marketing savvy, we’ve excelled in innovation while upholding traditions. Operating by appointment only from our Upminster showroom, we offer personalised consultations Monday to Saturday.
Our nature of business – retail sale of specialised clothing and renting of personal goods – underscores our dual focus on purchase and hire.
Today, our collections feature sustainable fabrics, bold colours like burgundy, forest green and brown – all available for hire or bespoke creation. From the Monaco tuxedo to check waistcoats, every item honours our history.
Looking to the Future: Your Part in Our Story
As we approach 2026, Jack Bunney Limited remains committed to excellence, blending our 65-year legacy with forward-thinking designs. Whether hiring for a one-off event or investing in a heirloom suit, we’re here to make your wedding unforgettable.
Join our story – visit www.jackbunneys.co.uk today to browse our wedding suit collections, learn more about our services, and book an appointment. Follow us on social media for the latest trends and inspirations. At Jack Bunneys, your perfect suit awaits.
