The noble and ancient art of the shoe shine, long absent from our cities, has made a welcome return with the launch of Spit ‘n’ Polish Shoeshine booths. The first booth was opened at Marylebone Station in London. Spit ‘n’ Polish Shoeshine is the brainchild of Ronan McCarthy, who plans to put a shine back… … Keep Reading
Just as the drinks industry becomes consumed by giant corporations, hell bent on designing unpalatable new alcopops by extensive use of the ‘focus group’ and ‘blue-sky’ marketing twaddle, comes a brand-new independent microdistillery, built from scratch right where Scotch whisky itself was probably invented. Kilchoman, based on the Scottish island of Islay, can lay claim… … Keep Reading
A British company has turned the tables on the traditional exploitation of hat weavers in Ecuador. In the past, the straw harvesters and weavers of hats selling for up to £600 in the UK were receiving a pittance, while members further along the food chain were making handsome profits. Carry Somers decided to change all… … Keep Reading
In an exclusive interview in The Chap, legendary actor, raconteur and author Stephen Fry puts forward some frank and unashamed views about headwear, including comments to the effect that Panama hats make him want to vomit. What started as a jovial discussion about the usual Chap matters, in which Mr. Fry waxed in his usual… … Keep Reading
03A 25-year-old English chap with a superb moustache is building a rocket that will help set a new land speed record. Daniel Jubb is working on the Bloodhound SSC, a rocket-powered car whose makers plan to break not only the current record of 760.343 mph, held by Briton Andy Green, but also to break the… … Keep Reading
Earlier this year, three brave, intrepid and immaculately attired chaps set off on an epic 3,000 mile journey across the Indian Subcontinent. This might not sound so remarkable, with today’s efficient transport methods, except that these foolhardy fellows relied not on rail, motor car or internet transfer, but that vehicle in which gentlemen generally move… … Keep Reading
Soho tailor Tony Lutwyche has launched a sartorial campaign to stop manufacturers labelling products ‘Made in England’ when they have really been made abroad. He plans to petition 10 Downing Street and demands the Government acts quickly to protect the standards and integrity of English tailoring, and other goods, by prohibiting any product not made… … Keep Reading