Darcy Clothing Ltd began life as The Vintage Shirt Company in 2004. The intention then was to supply accurate replicas of mens period shirts and collars for use in plays and costume dramas. Since then we have expanded our range to provide hats, socks, trousers, waistcoats, underwear and a huge variety of general accessories.
As we grew, the old name didn't really represent the variety of available stock so in 2010 we decided to re-brand as Darcy Clothing Ltd. (A name taken from the creator of the business, Catherine Darcy, not the more famous Mr.) The clothing is largely made specially for us and is taken directly from original garments.
As we grew, the old name didn't really represent the variety of available stock so in 2010 we decided to re-brand as Darcy Clothing Ltd. (A name taken from the creator of the business, Catherine Darcy, not the more famous Mr.) The clothing is largely made specially for us and is taken directly from original garments.
Services
All our shirts are replicas of original garments with the fabric and detailing as accurate as modern manufacturing methods permit. Our earliest shirts begin around C16th and the standard square cut shape did not alter until around 1800. This cut enabled the most economic use of valuable fabric. By the early C19th shirts began to be more closely fitted and gradually the modern shape evolved.
Detachable starched collars became commonly worn on men's shirts around 1850. The idea was to present a clean appearance to the world without the expense of laundering the whole shirt. As the century progressed collars rose and fell in height according to the fashion of the time reaching their most extreme height in the Edwardian era at the very beginning of C20th.
Waistcoats or "vests" have been worn throughout history by both ends of the economic scale. Farmers and land workers found them ideal for adding a layer of warmth without the constraint of sleeves. The wealthy were less concerned with practicality but found them invaluable in adding another layer of opulence to display status.
Where would anyone be without these essential items? There is no going back to uncomfortable belts once you have realised how liberating it is to wear your trousers with braces. The weight of trousers is transferred to your shoulders and all manner of discomfort relieved! Most of our trousers are designed to be worn with button on braces but we do sell a few of the clip on variety.
The smallest details make all the difference and as with our collars, variations in height and width of evening bow ties will ensure the perfect period look. We are pleased to be able to offer a widest variety of styles. White Tie refers to the accepted conventional dress for the most formal society events while Black Tie is is reserved for more relaxed family occasions.
Reviews (20)
Harrison Carter
Jan 03, 2022
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Over the past two years, Darcy has overhauled my wardrobe. Here in the States, there's seldom any makers of good quality, turn-of-the-century clothing that's not either of costume-quality or radically expensive. I finally have several outfits and uniforms ranging from casual to formal that look authentic, fit wonderfully, and make me feel confident everyday. Best part is that I rarely have to wait over a week for international shipping, and they're very prompt at getting orders out. I have nothing but the highest praise for Darcy and their clothing!
Merlin Storost
Dec 09, 2021
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R. B.
Nov 24, 2021
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The clothes are excellent: well-made, reasonably priced, and the sizing is accurate. What is less pleasing, though, is the postage costs. I spent over £330 , and for a not especially heavy package the postage is £24. That's a lot when compared to a lot of other companies, and I'm not including large ones who will have discounted carriage rates. It's a pity, as ultimately I'll order less.
Van Lambie-Nairn
Nov 18, 2021
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I ordered 2 pairs of trousers from Darcy online after visiting their Lewes shop which is gorgeous. I'm a small size and was thrilled to find that they make a size 26in waist in the trousers. They are a perfect fit! Fantastic quality and I would say good value for money for what you get. Delivery was extremely quick and efficient. I love them and can't wait to wear them out and about. Thanks Darcy and can't wait for my next purchase.
Rupert Young
Nov 07, 2021
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Used the shirts and collars for I dunno about 5 years no maybe 4 now it’s brill to have the feel of proper collars again since not wearing them since early 90s then expanded to their suits and high waisted… trees which are ridiculously comfortable for church so much so that I even sometimes wear on cleaner jobs - I’m an electrician - to work. Wish they’d do work trews, o hang on, they do! The cotton work troos and jacket but only comes in blue. Just love the variety of proper and even washable collars and the superbly priced cotton double cuffed shirts a handful of men
Telepathic
Oct 29, 2021
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Edward Ashworth
Jun 08, 2021
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I've been a repeat customer for years now. The products can get a bit pricey but they're absolutely worth it. Top quality, my shirts from them are the best I have and another is on the way. And THANK YOU for having actual small sizes for men, from this 5ft6 30in waist patron! It's so rare to find nowadays!
John Rouse
Jan 16, 2021
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I love retro clothing.. Perhaps getting to retro age as wore grandad shirts in the sixties. I found Darcy when looking for a 'Monty Don' drill jacket, and have bought several shirts as the cut and material are superb and due to the length stay tucked in my trousers. The cotton vest is the most comfortable garment ever and again has a different cut. It won't be worn as a vest!!
Will soon be placing my third order
Will soon be placing my third order
Patrick Slingsby
Jan 15, 2021
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I wanted to order a duck egg blue shirt but was unsure about the sizing. Within an hour of my enquiry Catherine emailed me back with advice. I ordered the shirt and it was in my house two days later! Really excellent customer service, and a really good quality shirt. I will be back. Thanks again to Catherine and the team.
Shane Deback
May 22, 2020
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Great service! Everything I've bought(mostly Collarless shirts and the vintage t-shirts/Henley's) from Darcy's has been nothing but the very best. Absolute top quality, craftsmanship and attention to detail. My favorite are the Henley undershirts. They are soooooo comfortable and look great. They go with everything. A must have for any vintage, or contemporary, wardrobe.
Eric Ewell Hanna
Feb 05, 2020
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Paula Keyes
Dec 30, 2019
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A. Macleod
Dec 21, 2019
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Totally fantastic quality. Yes, they are quite expensive but it is well worth the little bit extra. Purchase of linen trousers, braces and shirt, the service was brilliant. Even though it was the Christmas period delivery took less than 3 days. This was my first purchase from Darcy an di was not sure what to expect, I was amazed by the very high standard finish and the fantastic quality of the materials. If I could afford it I would never buy from any other supplier.
Eddy Lambert
Aug 10, 2019
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Kevin Hibbs
Apr 05, 2019
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Stephen Feber
Oct 24, 2018
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Michael Peckett
Jun 14, 2016
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Reaching 71,, competing with my son who is in Men's retail clothing, competing with the men I work with in the hair salon I work in, being used to being different from being about 16 when my Dad was in Menswear and I had suits made to my own design, Darcy has given me the opportunity to get ahead of the game once more!
I love so many modern clothes but being no spring chicken gives me a challenge.
I love my moleskin trousers, look good, feel great, (tummy covered)!
I love my striped shirt with long collar plus the braces.
Darcy sizing. Spot on.
Darcy quality spot on.
Darcy service, delivery
I love so many modern clothes but being no spring chicken gives me a challenge.
I love my moleskin trousers, look good, feel great, (tummy covered)!
I love my striped shirt with long collar plus the braces.
Darcy sizing. Spot on.
Darcy quality spot on.
Darcy service, delivery
John G.
Sep 13, 2011
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Georgia A.
Apr 22, 2010
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This is the shop front of a business that provides authentic looking menswear in styles dating from 1700 to the present day for use in costume dramas and so forth. As a result, the shop itself is a bit haphazard - more of a storage room, and you have to ring the bell to get in because the staff are generally working upstairs. However, the stock is fab. They do a wide range - unsurprisingly - of vintage shirts, the sort you see in costume dramas with high collars and cravats. These are the more specialist items, but they do also do some pieces which are wearable on a more day to day basis.
Joy C.
Apr 08, 2010
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Tucked away down a quiet side street, just yards from the Lewes Arms, the Vintage Shirt Company sells period men's clothing. I was enticed in by an unbleached cotton bag in the window reading 'I [heart] Mr Darcy'. It's not typical of what the shop sells but it got me through the door.
If you've ever fancied the young fogey look, this is the perfect place to kit yourself out. They have collarless shirts, baggy corduroy trousers with a waistline half way up your chest and braces to match. They also sell loose white flounced shirts as worn by Colin Firth to go diving into
If you've ever fancied the young fogey look, this is the perfect place to kit yourself out. They have collarless shirts, baggy corduroy trousers with a waistline half way up your chest and braces to match. They also sell loose white flounced shirts as worn by Colin Firth to go diving into
