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Breeches to Bellbottoms Tour by Fashion Tours London - London

Breeches to Bellbottoms Tour by Fashion Tours London

Londoneasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–4 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; moderate walking ability required

Overview

Step into London’s fashion legacy with Fashion Tours London’s Breeches to Bellbottoms Tour, a detailed walk through the history of the three-piece suit. Discover iconic tailoring and vintage style across St. James’s, Soho, and Covent Garden.

London, England

Breeches to Bellbottoms Tour

£30 Student Price | £55 per Adult

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Adventure Photos

Breeches to Bellbottoms Tour photo 1

About This Adventure

Embark on a captivating journey through fashion history, tracing the evolution of the three-piece suit from the 17th century to today's streetwear. Explore iconic tailoring houses, vibrant shops, and vintage styles in St. James's, Soho, and Covent Garden, gaining insights into timeless craftsmanship and the enduring essence of classic style.

Rates

Individual: £55 Student Price: £30 each for two or more


Duration

2-4 hours


About

We take you from the beginnings of the three-piece suit worn by Charles II in the seventeenth century, through wild doings of the eighteenth century and its macaronis, to Beau Brummell and a cast of Victorian dandies in the nineteenth century, on into the rebellions and classy revivals of the 20th century, including Oxford bags, Zoot suits, the new Edwardians, the Teddy Boys, the Mods, Rockers, the Mod revival, Punks, the New Romantics and right up to date in the ever changing world of streetwear, workwear and leisure wear.

We begin in St. James's and spend enough time in Jermyn Street and the tailoring houses of Savile Row to ground ourselves in the history and structure of the suit. We then move to Soho and Covent Garden, and all along the way, we visit fabulous shops whose clothes, colognes and shoes are rich in history and craftsmanship. We chat with staff members wherever possible and are happy to explore some men's vintage wear and discuss how to make it look fresh and contemporary. You will come away confident that a sense of classic style remains as vital as ever and that the best clothes are made to last and can be beautifully worn any decade, no matter the current fashions.

Adventure Tips

Wear comfortable walking shoes

The tour covers several neighborhoods on foot, so sturdy footwear helps you stay comfortable throughout the 2-4 hour experience.

Bring a notepad or smartphone

You’ll hear detailed stories and style tips—jot notes or take photos to retain the insights for later fashion inspiration.

Check the weather forecast

London weather can shift quickly; bring an umbrella or rain jacket if rain is expected to stay dry during outdoor segments.

Ask questions and engage

Staff in participating shops love sharing knowledge; asking about craftsmanship or styling can deepen your experience.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Urban pigeons
  • Sparrows along pedestrian streets

History

The three-piece suit emerged in the 1600s under Charles II’s reign and has continuously evolved through London’s changing social scenes.

Conservation

The tour promotes sustainable fashion awareness by emphasizing longevity and craftsmanship over fast fashion trends.

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Adventure Hotspots in London

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential

Supports all-day walking across city streets and pavements.

Compact umbrella

Helps you stay dry during London’s unpredictable rain showers.

spring|fall|winter specific

Smartphone or camera

Essential

Capture the intricate details and vibrant streetscapes throughout the tour.

Light jacket or layering

Essential

Keeps you comfortable through fluctuating temperatures and cool breezes.

spring|fall|winter specific