The Rake (magazine)

A Gentleman's London Episode 26: Sunspel

Gentleman’s London Episode 26 spotlights Sunspel, the British label founded in 1860 by Thomas Hill, which created the first luxury underwear, boxer shorts and early T‑shirts. The episode frames the brand as the original maker of elevated everyday essentials, still operating from its Nottingham roots while offering a bespoke T‑shirt service. The video walks through Sunspel’s modern customization: customers choose from five premium fabrics—including carbon‑brushed cotton, silk‑cotton blend, and the ultra‑rare Sea Island cotton—and two block cuts, a classic forgiving fit and a slimmer Riviera cut famously worn by Daniel Craig in Casino Royale. Details such as the iconic bound neckline, a design element dating back to the 1930s, and adjustable sleeve and body lengths illustrate the brand’s focus on fit, durability and timeless style. Key moments include a conversation with Nathan about the bespoke process, the role of Rita—Sunspel’s dedicated factory artisan in Long Eaton—and the four‑week turnaround time. The host also references Sunspel’s heritage of innovation, noting its invention of the boxer short and early T‑shirts, and highlights the brand’s commitment to British manufacturing. The segment underscores a broader trend: luxury casual wear is increasingly driven by heritage, quality and personalization. Sunspel’s model demonstrates how a historic British label can compete in a crowded market by leveraging local production, transparent craftsmanship and a premium customization experience, reinforcing the resurgence of Made‑in‑Britain luxury apparel.