Hand and Lock Embroidery

In 1898 CE Phipps & Co. began an embroidery business. By 1956 it had survived the wars as a modest yet well established business when a brilliant young designer, Stanley Lock, took over from Mr Phipps on his retirement.

The company, based in Fitzrovia, was renamed, S Lock Ltd. It reached new heights throughout the next 45 years working with couturiers including, Christian Dior, Norman Hartnell, and Hardy Amies. A Royal Warrant was awarded. Royal commissions have included gowns for the Queen, the Queen Mother, and Princess Anne’s wedding ensemble. Princess Diana added a new glamour with her love of richly embroidered clothes.

Showbusiness used the extravagance and showiness of embroidery and beading to full effect in many famous productions, from Barnum to The Lion King. The list is a long one!