It’s been over a year since the idea was first mooted, and it still hasn’t sunk in properly – a John Smedley collaboration. It has a lovely ring to it, and even now brings a little smile. If further explanation of our feelings for the company is needed then please see the review of our recent factory visit, here.

The 228 year old elder statesman of English-made knitwear is revered throughout the world of luxury fashion, over centuries many generations of family management have steered a steady course. It is an honour for Cherchbi, a youth by comparison, to form a collaborative partnership with such a great brand. We’re not shy of a challenge, but have felt some pressure to live up to the reputation of this historic company. But now the nerves and nail-biting are over and today a small yet well considered group of bags launch under the CHERCHBI | John Smedley marque.

The Blake Overnighter, Barrett Flap Brief and iPad Sleeve are outwardly very Cherchbi, made in our signature grey Herdwyck No.10 tweed, trimmed with Black saddle leather. Further inspection reveals unique details and a story, the result of our research into the John Smedley archive. Only ten pieces of each bag have been made, all have ‘J Smedley Lea Derbyshire’ stamped by hand in blue ink inside. The stamp, colour and technique of hand application are true to the original process employed to label the companies earliest knitwear designs. Furthermore, each bag is hand-stamped with an edition number, from 1 to 10 of 10, and comes with a hand-printed certificate of authenticity.

The bags are available only from johnsmedley.com or the Brook Street store in Mayfair, London where they are currently displayed in the window.