In the ever-evolving world of menswear, few names resonate with the authority, reverence, and cultural impact of John Simons. A pillar of British fashion and a true pioneer of Ivy League style in the UK, John Simons has shaped the menswear landscape for over six decades. Today, Ivy Ellis is proud to continue our collaboration with this iconic institution, bringing together heritage, craftsmanship, and shared design philosophies through a collection of limited-edition socks that honour the past while stepping confidently into the present.
The Legacy of John Simons
John Simons’ career began in 1955, working as a window dresser for the illustrious menswear retailer Cecil Gee. It was here that his keen eye for presentation and appreciation for refined tailoring began to take shape. Fuelled by both instinct and education—including a course at St Martins School of Art—Simons went on to establish Clothesville in 1963, a Hackney-based shop that served the burgeoning Mod scene with innovative reinterpretations of classic menswear staples.
Just a year later, Simons opened The Ivy Shop in Richmond, introducing the UK to the Ivy League aesthetic with precision and flair. With his instinctive sense for curation and his eye for the nuanced elegance of American and European mid-century fashion, Simons built more than a retail destination; he forged a movement. In doing so, he introduced now-iconic items to the British market, including the famous Baracuta G9 jacket—famously renamed the ‘Rodney Harrington’ by Simons, creating what is now universally known as the Harrington Jacket.
From The Squire Shop on King’s Road to J. Simons in Covent Garden, and now 46 Chiltern Street, his stores have continued to serve as cultural beacons for modernists, musicians, and menswear aficionados alike. His early adoption of vintage retail and his eye for global craftsmanship (including the first UK stocking of Paraboot footwear) helped set the standard for timeless menswear curation long before it became fashionable.
Shared Values, Shared Vision
At Ivy Ellis, we have always admired John Simons not only for his immense contribution to menswear but for the way he has championed considered design, longevity, and understated style. Our own commitment to quality craftsmanship, slow fashion, and the heritage of classic sportswear finds a natural ally in the Simons philosophy.
This collaboration is not simply about product; it's about perspective. It's about two brands rooted in history, working in harmony to celebrate enduring style. John Simons redefined the modern wardrobe through his transatlantic lens; Ivy Ellis brings a contemporary appreciation for detail, sustainability, and sport-infused design. Together, the result is a collection of socks that serve as wearable expressions of our aligned values.
The New Additions
Following the sell-out success of our first Ivy Ellis x John Simons drop, we're proud to introduce three new colourways in this celebrated collaboration:
Each pair features dual branding—"John Simons" on one foot, "Ivy Ellis" on the other—a literal step in unison, reflecting the genuine synergy of this collaboration.
More Than a Sock
In an age of fast fashion and trend-chasing, partnerships like this are increasingly rare. But that's what makes them meaningful. These crew socks aren't just accessories; they are artefacts of two brands whose combined heritage, taste, and craftsmanship offer something lasting.
Whether you're a long-time devotee of Ivy League style or new to the story of John Simons, this collection offers a way to connect with a legacy that has shaped the way generations dress.
Explore the new drop today, and take a step forward while walking in the footsteps of menswear history.
