In the late '70s Yves Chareton was visiting New York and was inspired by the classic preppy look. After a meeting with a New York manufacturer, they agreed to sell him old stocks of Oxford and chambray fabric that were impossible to find on the market, and which were ideal to make the first vintage-inspired Hartford shirts.

A couple of years later his first collection of shirts were produced and since then Hartford has grown to produce a full collection of menswear but ever faithful to its original inspiration of American wardrobe classics but with a European influence. From early beginnings as a self-taught tailor and shopkeeper, Oliver Spencer has built a brand around his vision: hand-crafted quality paired with stylish accents and details.

Website Update

Services

History Report

Opened in 2016 the store was born out of a genuine passion for menswear clothing and independent retailing. Our mission is to offer thoughtfully edited brands with a strong emphasis on quality and provenance. Our interest lies in product and design more than the label itself, be it Japanese selvedge denim or handmade British footwear.

Reviews (10)

Write a Review

Paul Nurton

Jun 14, 2021

Report

I try to avoid shopping for clothes as much as possible - but when the need arises I always head for Merchant Menswear in Taunton - great range and choice plus Tony is very personable and professional - an all round positive shopping experience. Highly recommended.

Tom Salt

Sep 22, 2020

Report

Great stylish and contemporary clothes and the chap that runs it is the perfect salesman, he provides just the right amount of help and advice without ever being pushy. A must visit in Taunton.

Frank Franco

Aug 05, 2020

Report

My experience shopping at Merchant Menswear was nothing short of wonderful. Having a love for stylish footwear, I came across Merchant via Google images. Seeking out the shoes I wanted, I contacted them to ask more questions about the sizing. I was delighted to receive an almost immediate response by them, which really motivated me to buy the shoes. A few days later, in careful packaging, the shoes arrived in pristine condition. They felt great and there was nothing weird with the fit at all. Needless to say, I was instantly in love with what I had purchased and the customer service I received

John Wyvern

Mar 16, 2020

Report

Fantastic menswear store in Taunton in the Riverside area. Great selection of high quality brands, a really good shopping experience with a friendly owner. Not many stores like this in Somerset so it’s a must visit for those who care about clothes and supporting independent stores.

Flossy C.

Jan 22, 2020

Report

I visited this shop to buy my other half a present while visiting Taunton a couple of weeks ago. The staff member was excellent. Very knowledgeable and not at all pushy like some other shop staff. Ended up buying a great shirt which he loved! Many thanks. Will come again if I ever re-visit Taunton.

Adam Dibble

Jan 01, 2020

Report

My go to shop for clothes. High quality brands and plenty of variation to choose from. The service is perfect too — a relaxing, non pushy environment which has a lovely bespoke feel.

Paul Hatch

Oct 06, 2018

Report

Excellent service, great clothes and offers something different to the run of the mill chains, will be returning again and again :)

Dave Baglow

Aug 23, 2018

Report

What a great shop!
Really nice selection of clothes that seem to have the right balance between being original and (importantly) not being too trendy for me to wear!
Staff were really friendly and not at all pushy.
Will definitely pop in again next time I’m In Taunton. Thank you

Charles Solanki

Oct 20, 2017

Report

Best selection of urban men's clothing in Taunton...plus fantastic service.

Floyd Powers

Jun 22, 2017

Report

Fabulous mens clothes shop, just what Taunton needs, amazing quality and stylish - and super service too. Will be back soon.