BROOKS BROTHERS

Brooks Brothers - A true American style icon.

This iconic American house dates back to 1818 and has provided presidents, statesmen and 'Ivy Leaguers' with fine clothes for generations. Known in America for its handsome suits, blazers and ties, the brand has a proud tradition of producing high, quality 'Made in America' garments for everyone from Abraham Lincoln on to Hollywood greats.

As a truly American institution, Brooks Brothers has always represented the democracy of good taste and real style, not the tyranny of fashion. Whether you are American, British or European though, you will undoubtedly find much inspiration in this American brand with such a rich history.

Henry Sands Brooks didn't set out to found one of America's most unique style institutions - he started out doing favours for his friends. In 1818 he was 46 years old and already a successful commercial trader, with strong ties to British firms which he visited frequently - often bringing back for himself the latest in British men's fashions. His impeccable sense of style didn't escape the notice of his friends, who started asking him to bring back pieces for them as well - out of this passion for fine tailoring was born Brooks Brothers - 'Makers and Merchants'.

The symbol of Brooks Brothers is the Golden Fleece, the ancient icon of a knightly order founded by a Duke of Burgundy. It's both a symbol of knightly virtues, and an earthly reminder of the wool trade that was the basis of Burgundian prosperity at the time. Knights of the order wore the gold collar, with its pendant Golden Fleece symbol, with price, and on the back, in Latin, was inscribed, "I will have no other." True for generations of Brooks Brothers clients past, it's as true as today as it was back in 1818, when the icon was chosen as the company's logo.

Finally, Brooks Brothers is available online through MilanStyle.co.uk to the gentlemen of Great Britain and Europe.