1932
Origins of Elegance
Pioneering silk importers Jack and Mary Lyons transformed their passion for fine textiles into artistry with the creation of exquisite silk squares. Guided by an unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and innovation, their pieces quickly captured the imagination of the fashion world, evolving into iconic accessories that laid the cornerstone of a future global luxury brand. Celebrated by Queen Elizabeth II, embraced by royalty, and coveted by international luminaries, their legacy endures as a symbol of timeless elegance and flair.
1936
Retail Pioneer
With the pioneering spirit that would come to define Jacqmar, the company proudly opened its flagship store at 16 Grosvenor Street, Mayfair, London. Originally a double-fronted Georgian townhouse, the elegant 18th-century building was transformed into a stunning showroom, textile design studio, and couture house. This distinguished location became the creative hub for Jacqmar’s celebrated designers and a favoured destination for its high-profile clientele. Building on this success, Jacqmar expanded its reach by selling through prestigious retailers such as Harrods, Selfridges, and Liberty of London, as well as markets worldwide thus cementing its enduring legacy in British fashion history.
1940
A Symbol of Love
During World War II, Jacqmar scarves became intimate tokens of love and hope, often gifted by servicemen to their sweethearts back home. Designed by Arnold Lever, each piece carried a powerful visual narrative imbued with symbols of resilience, courage, and solidarity. These heartfelt creations served as a quiet form of communication during wartime offering comfort in a time of uncertainty. The emotional bond forged between the brand and its wearers has endured for decades and continues to this day.
1942
Style Visionaries
Many of the era’s most prominent fashion designers were eager to work with Jacqmar, marking the beginning of a distinguished legacy of collaboration. Renowned names such as Bianca Mosca, who later became a founding member of the Incorporated Society of London Fashion Designers; Victor Steibel, and Arnold Lever all contributed their talents to the House of Jacqmar.
Jacqmar Haute Couture dressed legendary stars of stage and screen, including Katharine Hepburn, Vivien Leigh, and Marlene Dietrich. Celebrities also inspired Jacqmar’s designs such as Margot Fonteyn who featured in a design for the Royal Ballet School.
1959
The Jacqmar Special
A special train was commissioned when Jacqmar relocated its factory from London to Burnley, Lancashire. The train, pulled by two locomotives to accommodate the considerable weight of the factory machinery, stock, and staff, made the overnight journey as a single, united convoy.
1981
Royal Elegance
Queen Elizabeth II, adorned in a Jacqmar scarf, presents a trophy to her son (then Prince Charles) at a polo match in Windsor. Renowned for her fondness for Jacqmar, the Queen owned an extensive collection of the brand’s distinctive designs. The scarf she wears in this moment, titled Inns and Signs, celebrates iconic British pubs, blending regal charm with cultural heritage.
1983
Flying High
Jacqmar's rich legacy is woven through defining moments in British history; from creating bespoke pieces for the 1948 Olympic Games and the 1953 Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, to reimagining the uniforms of British Airways cabin crew. The brand continues to partner with leading names in fashion including Dame Zandra Rhodes, Jean Muir, and Althea McNish.
1985
Liberated by Jacqmar
2021
Celebrating Jacqmar
In celebration of its rich heritage, Jacqmar immortalises its iconic 16 Grosvenor Street store. Screen-printed using time-honoured techniques, the design is brought to life with vibrant colours that echo the brand’s bold and illustrious history.
2024
Hip to be Square
Jacqmar steps into the digital realm with Hip to be Square a customisable scarf that blends classic style with modern innovation. Featuring a bold geometric design, it marks the brand’s first scarf where customers can select their own colourway. 10 colour options across 15 blocks offers over 10 billion combinations. A truly unique scarf for everyone.
