Testimonials
Meet the competition’s previous winners and finalists and find out where they are now.
What makes The Golden Shears special?
It’s a great way to see bespoke tailoring beyond Savile Row, from all around the country and to meet others who are so creative and are excelling in their work.
Was there a defining moment in the competition for you?
I feel like there were many! A key one was realising I wanted to do the competition for myself, regardless of the outcome. I decided to ask as many questions and learn as much as I could within the time available, from the immense knowledge and kindness of the team here, so that it was always going to be a valuable experience for me.
Any advice for someone considering entering the competition?
Absolutely go for it. Don’t worry too much about all of the different elements at the beginning; start small, go for something strong and simple and build from there. There will always be gaps in your knowledge- these are spaces to ask questions and learn from others who are keen to share their knowledge with you.
Golden Shears Winner 2025
I applied for the Golden Shears as an opportunity to stretch my skillset and learn about other areas of work outside of coatmaking. It was the final year of my apprenticeship and I felt I wouldn’t get an opportunity like this again, with such incredible talent to learn from around me at Huntsman.
Please talk us through your design and finished garment
Inspired by the many art galleries around Savile Row and Mayfair, I created a two piece cobalt blue womenswear suit, where the garments could become artworks in and of themselves. I intended to make a statement piece that empowered the wearer to take up space.
Three key elements started the process: colour, shape and texture. These led to the design of large lapels on a double-breasted jacket, dramatic folds stretching the full length of the high-waisted, wide-leg trousers that move with the wearer, and a strong cloth that is rich in depth of colour and would make well for a strong silhouette.
What are you doing now?
I finished my apprenticeship earlier this year and am now an Improver Coatmaker, so am building up customers, getting lots of experience and working on more complex work over the next year or so.
How did The Golden Shears help you?
I think the Golden Shears helped me push myself both creatively and with confidence in what I thought I was capable of. I am so grateful to Huntsman for giving me the time alongside my work to compete, and I ultimately feel that this experience has only helped me grow more into the maker I would like to be.
Why did you apply for the Golden Shears?
Joanna Spreadbury
What were you doing before the competition?
I started as a Trimmer at Huntsman in 2021 and then became a coatmaking apprentice under David Hayes in 2023.
What was the Grand Final like?
It was nerve wracking beforehand – not having seen my work in a setting like this before (and having to walk down the catwalk ourselves as well!). But ultimately very exciting to see how each submission had been styled and inspiring to see so much talent all in one place.