John Smedley
John Smedley: Knitwear Carved from English Roots
Founded in 1784 at Lea Mills, Derbyshire—during the dawn of the Industrial Revolution—John Smedley is the oldest operational knitwear factory in the world. From its earliest days in muslin and hosiery, the brand has remained a family-run atelier through eight generations, dedicated to precision, material excellence, and authenticity.
Over centuries, John Smedley introduced knitwear icons, the streamlined polo shirt and refined jumpers, garnering fans from James Bond to Audrey Hepburn, and earning Royal Warrants along the way.
Earned Elegance in Every Thread
Our clients don’t do brief; they build. John Smedley resonates because:
- Each garment is still hand-crafted in England—no compromise on provenance.
- Its legacy is woven into every stitch—Bathed in British heritage, yet modern in wear.
- Their knit polos and sweaters don’t need notices—James Bond wore them first; we just point out the continuity.
This is knitwear that’s quiet yet unmistakably present.
Core Classics with Refined Temperament
🔹Fine-Gauge Merino Sweaters:
Lightweight layers that polish tailored looks and signal refinement.
🔹Original Knit Polos:
Undeniably iconic, ideal under blazer or solo on weekends.
🔹Reverse-Gauze Layers:
Soft to the touch, tailored in every sense.
🔹Capsule Collections:
Limited drops spun from rare wools—select, seasonal, statement.
Each piece is chosen for its ability to work quietly, confidently, in any context.
Centuries of Craft, Right in Derbyshire
🔹Proximity matters.
Every stage—spinning, knitting, finishing—happens at Lea Mills, leadership still under the founding line.
🔹Craft is maintained.
From fine knitting to hand repairs and tailored fits—skill is a discipline John Smedley still practices.
🔹Future-forward heritage.
Recent investments are bringing third-party knit production back to the UK, affirming local stewardship in luxury.
These aren’t knit staples; they’re legacy pieces.
Featured Styles & Claymore Client Favorites
🔹Classic Merino Crew or V-Neck
Always reliable, season after season.
🔹Isis or Tennis Knit Polo
Sleek enough for boardroom layering, bold enough solo.
🔹Cardigan or Lightweight Rollneck
Elevated ease for every autumn evening.
🔹Limited Seasonal Checks or Textures
Subtle personality meant to last.
Where Heritage Knits Modern Confidence
Find John Smedley at Claymore Shop and experience a knit that transcends seasons—smoother than its rival core, sharper than any trend.
Visit Us:
Claymore Shop
908 S. Adams Rd, Birmingham, MI
(248) 642-7755
Store Hours & Directions
Claymore Shop is an independent retailer. Product imagery and brand references are presented for editorial and informational purposes only. Visual concepts are inspired by the spirit of the John Smedley brand. Imagery is artistic and not affiliated with or representative of specific John Smedley products. See our Legal Disclaimer & Disclosures for details.