When Private Jack White returned to his hometown of Manchester, England, after fighting in the first world war, he started working as an apprentice pattern-cutter in a local factory. He soon worked his way up the ranks and eventually became owner of the factory. Fast forward to 2008, when James Eden, the soldier's great-grandson, quit his job in London and established Private White VC in the very same factory, taking inspiration for the brand from his forebear's heroic, military style.
designer Nick Ashley, former head of Dunhill menswear, has stayed true to the brand's roots by creating stylish, carefully crafted yet durable garments for the modern gentleman. As well as everything being made in the Manchester factory, all materials are sourced locally, too.
from the autumn-winter collection, the double-breasted Pea Coat (right; £675/HK$8,400), made from 100 per cent locally sourced wool, is a stylish winter essential. The G1 Nylon Flight Jacket (left; £395) has been made with the finest military-grade British Nylon and designed to look effortlessly cool.