Austen Brothers shirts (Australian members)

[Confucius]

Has anyone heard of this brand? I came across it this morning and they have a sale going (prices on the site are in AUD).

Some of the shirts look quite nice, and apparently they're made from Egyptian cotton. Anyone had any experience?

http://www.austenbrothers.com/default.aspx

 

[Journeyman]

My understanding is that the shirts are made by the same people who, until recently, made "Edward Stripe" shirts. Apparently, they sold Edward Stripe and are now selling the same shirts as the old Edward Stripe range under the Austen Brothers label.

The shirts are made in Vietnam but, if they are still up to the same standard as Edward Stripe, they are very good value for the sale prices - mother of pearl buttons, nice fabric with nice patterns, removable collar stays and all the rest. Fused collar and cuffs but still with a nice shape.

The only (potential) complaint is that, like most other off-the-rack shirts, the cut is fairly generous. If you like a slim-cut, you'll have to have the shirt tapered in at the sides by a tailor.

 

[Confucius]

Thanks for the info. I might give them a very wide berth in that case!

 

[penguin vic]

I've heard that the Edward Stripe shirts are decent. Sleeve length on their 15.5" shirts are way too long for me.

 

[Journeyman]

Originally Posted by penguin vic

I've heard that the Edward Stripe shirts are decent. Sleeve length on their 15.5" shirts are way too long for me.

Yes, the old Edward Stripe shirts, which seem to now be Austen Brothers shirts, are quite nice, particularly at their price point. The only shortcoming was the non-slim-fit.

As you note, the sleeve lengths are a bit odd and I did have to have the sleeves shortened on the one Edward Stripe shirt that I own.

The Edward Stripe website is currently being renovated and it says that a new online store will open soon. I remember reading or hearing somewhere that the firm is under new management, that they will also have a bricks-and-mortar store in Noosa, and that the new line of Edward Stripe shirts will be made in Australia. It will be interesting to see if all of that occurs, and what their price point is like.

 

[neyus]

I have first hand experience with the above shirts. Though the shirt I bought was a classic fit. Everything in terms of details are almost identical to Edward Stripe. Though the shirt I purchased (which wasn't through the website I might add) had plastic and not Mother of Pearl Buttons.

The quality overall is good, despite fused collars and cuffs and double stitched side seams. But for the price a worthy contender particularly if you don't want to order from The UK or you're sick of buying Rhodes & Beckett, Farage or Herringbone.

I must add that Austen Bros also have a slim fit range. Which I haven't tried, but I am confident it would be sufficiently tapered.

 

[Confucius]

I'm amazed at how much the site reminds me of a Lewin or Tyrwhitt site.

I've had decent experience with Boston Brothers (offshoot of Rhodes) and Rhodes, but the sleeves are way too short for my ape arms.

I feel like I've finally found my perfect shirts in TM Lewin (based on fit, price etc) so I'm loath to try out these Austen slim fits although I am tempted.

 

[__PG__]

I have one Austen Brothers shirt and I love the collar, sleeve length and the fabric.

It's a 'classic cut'..which is quite large and 'billowy'. I'd be interested in trying their slim or classic-fit shirts to see what they are like.

 

[Sydguy]

Visited the Austen Brothers shop today on Erskine Street in Sydney, got some clearance stuff downstairs, mostly the Classic Fit so I did not try anything.

They seem fine for their price AU$89, but I'd wait for a sale. I have a few R&B and Boston Bros which I think look, feel and fit me better.

Austen does sell stainless steel collar stays/bones for AU$10 per pair, R&B say they only sell them to existing customers.

R&B currently got a few styles at 40% off, in fact their suits are 40% off too. Makes you wonder who pays full price!!! After Xmas I would think they will all be on sale.

Has anyone bought anything from Val Parks, they have a few stores in Sydney, and the Shirt Shop (Elizabeth Street I think)???

 

[Journeyman]

Originally Posted by Sydguy

Has anyone bought anything from Val Parks, they have a few stores in Sydney, and the Shirt Shop (Elizabeth Street I think)???

I bought one shirt from Val Parks in 2005 and I would not purchase any more based on that experience.

Cheap fabric, cheap construction, buttons that came unstitched and threads that came loose. It did have removable collar stays, however.

 

[Edward_Stripe]

Originally Posted by Journeyman

Yes, the old Edward Stripe shirts, which seem to now be Austen Brothers shirts, are quite nice, particularly at their price point. The only shortcoming was the non-slim-fit.

As you note, the sleeve lengths are a bit odd and I did have to have the sleeves shortened on the one Edward Stripe shirt that I own.

The Edward Stripe website is currently being renovated and it says that a new online store will open soon. I remember reading or hearing somewhere that the firm is under new management, that they will also have a bricks-and-mortar store in Noosa, and that the new line of Edward Stripe shirts will be made in Australia. It will be interesting to see if all of that occurs, and what their price point is like.


In response to the above...

Our new Edward Stripe online store opened its doors in July 2009 at www.EdwardStripe.com.au.


MEN'S SHIRTS

Classic Cut - Our Edward Stripe classic cut men's business shirt is a favourite of many customers, beautifully crafted from superfine 2-fold pure cotton fabrics.

Slim Cut - Our first range of slim cut men's business shirts was introduced in response to customer feedback. These shirts are discretely tailored for customers who prefer slimmer body fittings.

To acheive a perfect fit, we can tailor your Edward Stripe shirts to suit your requirements. Alterations include sleeve shortening, breast pocket additions, side-seam reductions for fitted fittings, contrasting white collars and cuffs, and monogram embroidery are all available.


ACCESSORIES

Our new ranges of accessories and personalised gifts is being gradually developed in conjunction with artists whose practice includes sculpture, painting and digital art.

Cufflinks - Our new art glass cufflinks are handmade originals by internationally recognised Australian artists. Lisa Cahill produces an elegant range using kiln-formed glass with silver leaf. Paul Mason produces a seemingly endless number of designs with skillful lampworking techniques.

Neckties - The new Edward Stripe Collection of classic width neckties are hand made in Italy from pure silk woven fabrics. A wide range includes stripes, textures, spots or motifs to complement our men's shirts. In addition, a selected range by American artists Sovereign Beck are made in limited quantities, hand stitched in New York using 100% fine wool suiting fabrics.

Skin Care products for men and women are handmade by SAYA near our home in Noosa, Queensland.


PERSONALISED SERVICES

Whether you order by telephone or online, we aim to enhance your confidence through honesty, reliability and service excellence. Our courteous and professional approach is reciprocated by loyalty and respect from our valued customers. We always look forward to welcoming new customers.

Our new Edward Stripe CLUB loyalty program keeps us in touch with members and customers, and offers exclusive benefits and rewards. We invite you to join the CLUB, earn points with every purchase, and receive vouchers which can be redeemed for rewards from our range.

Ask our Butler is a new interactive service devoted to providing ongoing assistance through regular columns and personalised Q&Q. Our butler, Mark Johnson of Magnums Butlers is a regular "Jeeves" dedicated to "bringing a pinch of elegance, a dash of style and practical service".

Our first Edward Stripe Concept Store opened last month at MOFO Menswear, Noosa Heads and showcases our products to people visiting Noosa who like to touch and feel before purchasing.

Plans for the near future include Australian made, custom shirts. We have already started investing in equipment and are currently interviewing garment technicians.


At the end of the day our story continues and is defined by an appreciation for timeless elegance, quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. The most important part of our story will always be how we listen to customers. We appreciate and value responses about your experience with us or any of our products.

For further information we invite you to visit our website at www.EdwardStripe.com.au, send us an email [email protected] or telephone during business hours 07 5474 3433.