Tailored by Mr. Start: The Story Behind Mr. Start /
Designer Philip Start began his career in fashion retail working for prestigious jeweller Gerrard before making his move into menswear. Always interested in fashion, he spent the Sixties under the influence of Carnaby Street and Kensington Market before emigrating to Canada where he began a determined career in menswear
He returned to London in the late Sixties and, in the late Seventies, set up his own business, Woodhouse, for which he is well known. In 1975 Woodhouse took up premises on Oxford Street and quickly expanded to nine stores nationwide. In 1989, Philip sold the business to Sir Philip Green only to buy it back in 1991 as part of a joint venture that included BFC Chairman Harold Tillman.
In 1999, Philip sold Woodhouse for the last time to Specialty Retail Group (SRG) but continued as a shareholer and consultant until 2002, when he removed himself from the business completely.
Later in 2002, Philip established START with his wife Brix Smith Start, which soon grew to two separate premises. In 2008, Philip took over a third premise on Rivington Street and used it as the base for his own tailoring label, Mr. Start.
Philip Start in the Mr. Start Tailoring Store on Rivington Street, London
Through Mr. Start, Philip draws from his reputable and extensive experience in retail to create refreshing and wearable collections, inspired by his understanding of the way men dress. The suits are slim cut, creating a look of casual precision. The ethos is modern and architectural, creating an accessible, everyday elegance. The definitive fit is subtle yet certain, epitomising ‘Shoreditch luxury’.
An image from the Mr. Start SS12 Lookbook
