Margaret Howell
United Kingdom
Margaret Howell is a British design label founded by designer Margaret Howell, whose website says it offers contemporary British design since 1970. It runs two labels, Margaret Howell and MHL, and has a strong presence in Japan.
| Founded | 1970 (per brand website) |
|---|---|
| Founder | Margaret Howell |
| Labels | Margaret Howell and MHL |
| Flagship | Wigmore Street, London |
| Segment | Luxury and designer houses |
| Website | margarethowell.co.uk |
What is Margaret Howell?
Margaret Howell is a British fashion and lifestyle brand named after its founder, who was born in 1946 in Tadworth, Surrey. The official website describes it as contemporary British design since 1970 and presents two labels, Margaret Howell and MHL, each with men's and women's collections, plus a homeware range.
History
According to Wikipedia, Howell's handmade beads were taken up by Vogue in 1970, and in 1972 she began making shirts from a flat in Blackheath, London, with US retailers and Joseph in London placing orders. A franchise shop opened on South Molton Street in 1976 and the first independent shop opened on St Christopher's Place in 1980. A New York shop followed in 1982 and a first standalone shop in Aoyama, Tokyo, in 1983. The company was restructured in 1990, with a dedicated partner handling Japanese licensing.
A shirt factory opened in Edmonton, north London, in 2000, the Wigmore Street flagship opened in 2002, the MHL line was introduced in 2004 and Margaret Howell Plus collaborations with Kenneth Grange began in 2010.
Products and positioning
The brand is known for understated, wearable clothing, shirts and tailoring, and for a craft-led approach that extends into ceramics, kitchenware, home products, books and stationery. The website currently features an exhibition of ceramics by Matsui Kosei.
Business model and distribution
Wikipedia states that the company employs about 500 people in more than 80 locations, though it gives no date. The brand operates its own shops and an online store, lists retailers across the UK and worldwide, and offers a home try-on service in most of the UK and concierge delivery in Greater London. Japan is a significant market through licensing and shops. No owner or investor details were found, so none are stated.
Why it matters
Margaret Howell is one of the most respected independent British designer labels and an influential voice for quiet, craft-led design. Its founding year differs by source: the website says 1970 and Wikipedia dates the shirt business to 1972.
Frequently asked questions
Who owns Margaret Howell?
The label is associated with its founder Margaret Howell, but the sources reviewed do not name any owner or investor, so current ownership could not be verified.
Where is Margaret Howell from?
Margaret Howell is a British brand based in London. The founder began making shirts in Blackheath, London, in 1972 and the brand dates itself from 1970.