__HCR-Cover-Final.jpg

HandCut Radio explores the worlds of men’s style and luxury with industry insiders and leading brands. From inspiring craftspeople to influential designers, each episode we bring you a personal insight into what makes men’s fashion tick.

Paul Simons on working with his father, Ivy style and modernism | #043

Paul Simons on working with his father, Ivy style and modernism | #043

This week Aleks sits down with Paul Simons, co-owner of the iconic Ivy League style destination, John Simons on Chiltern Street in Marylebone. In the ‘60s, John was the ‘OG’ importer and populariser of the American Ivy League look in the UK and over the past five decades or so, John Simons has built up a cult following as a preppy menswear destination.

Today, Paul manages the business day-to-day, and we sat down together to hear the brand’s story from the horses’s mouth. We chat about John’s early years in business and the significance of the Ivy look, Paul’s experience of growing up as an ‘Ivy kid’ and we explore the cultural differences between American and English Ivy style too.

Follow us on Instagram @handcutradio, and get involved in the conversation. Please do rate and review us on Apple Podcasts too, or subscribe to HCR on Spotify — either action helps to boost us up the podcast charts and we really do appreciate the support!


HandCut Radio is produced by Birch, the London based creative office of James Allen. Our theme music is by Joe Boyd.

This episode is produced in partnership with Portman Marylebone, an elegant central London retail destination that is home to many of the city’s most characterful restaurants, galleries and independent fashion brands. Portman Marylebone has been meticulously maintained by the Portman Estate for just under 500 years.


Olivia Francis on the most important garment in your wardrobe | #044

Olivia Francis on the most important garment in your wardrobe | #044

Labour & Wait’s co-founders on slow growth and good design | #042

Labour & Wait’s co-founders on slow growth and good design | #042