In with the new at Eaton Square Upper School

Perry Uniform reveals how it designed Eaton Square Upper School's uniform

Posted by Julian Owen | September 19, 2017 | School life

• #eaton-square-upper-school
• #perry-uniform
• #school-uniform
• #independent-schools
• #caroline-bunting

Perry Uniform has been supplying Eaton Square School since 2008 and they were excited to be given the opportunity to design the new senior uniform at Eaton Square Upper School. 

The task of creating a uniform and sports kit can be daunting to some, but Perry Uniform were ready to take on the challenge. 

Before designing the uniform what was the brief the school gave you?

Meetings were held with the Headmaster, Sebastian Hepher, and Eaton Square Upper School Headmaster, Phillip Williams, to establish their vision for the uniform. As a traditional school in central London, Eaton Square Upper wanted their uniform to be smart and distinctive and to look well-placed in its central London location. Therefore, smart traditional styles that will not date were important.  

Were there any design influences?

The Grade-I listed building which houses the school was a source of inspiration for the designs. The geometric pattern on the boys’ tie and girls’ scarf were taken from a feature found in the building itself. By looking at a school’s surroundings it’s often possible to draw inspiration.

What is the process of designing a new uniform?  

Perry Uniform begin with an initial meeting to determine the brief and understand the school’s branding requirements; this establishes a direction from which to move forward. Sometimes the school may not be aware of all the options available to them and so alternatives are often suggested. Creating computer-aided design (CAD) drawings of options, together with swatches of fabric, help the school to visualise their uniform. Feedback is given to hone down the design options that enable samples to be made.

How long does it take to design a uniform?

From our perspective we would like be briefed before the end of the summer term in the year preceding the launch to parents the following June. However, as with Eaton Square Upper, we have been able to design and deliver the uniform within a six-month time frame. There are no hard and fast rules to this process!

What do you think are the standout features of the Eaton Square Upper uniform?

Whilst it was quickly decided that the boys would have a tie, there was a lot of conversation about what the girls should have. The school decided they wanted to have a scarf, which it was believed would be more in keeping with the stylish nature of the uniform. The geometric pattern, being such a unique design, helps the scarf to stand out. The lining for the suit jacket was designed and printed with the school logo scattered across it to accent the school’s brand. By also making it gold it enabled a bold design. Linings are a brilliant way to inject colour while making use of the school crest and enhancing the school brand.

Do you have any advice for other schools wanting to create a new uniform?

It’s rare that a school will have a clear understanding of the possibilities available to them – that’s where Perry come in!  We can help with the whole process, from interpreting your ideas, giving you suggestions of things you may not have considered and designing a uniform and sports kit that conveys your identity and exceeds your expectations. 

Contact Caroline Bunting at Perry Uniform to find out how Perry can work with you and your school.

E: caroline@perryuniform.co.uk
T: 0113 238 9520 
W: perryuniform.co.uk