For Spring/Summer 2025, John Smedley is introducing its first diffusion line, JS by John Smedley, bringing its 240-year history in British manufacturing and contemporary knitwear to a wider audience. The collection will be stocked exclusively at John Lewis.

Established in 1784 in Derbyshire, John Smedley is renowned for its signature Made in the UK merino knits and remains the oldest operational factory in the world. Made in England from fully traceable, high-quality New Zealand Extra Fine Merino Wool, the capsule collection presents a vibrant and youthful aesthetic while maintaining the brand’s hallmark values of colour and craftsmanship. Though offered in menswear silhouettes, the collection has unisex appeal.

The range includes 13 styles in key colourways such as blue, pink, and green, applied in bold stripes and colour blocking. The collection is designed to attract both new customers drawn to its vibrant colours and sustainability credentials, as well as loyal brand followers who appreciate the nostalgic rugby shirt references. The pieces are designed with a relaxed, boxier fit and feature visible branding knitted into each garment. Versatile for everyday wear or paired with tailoring, the designs offer a modern take on workwear.

The yarns used in this collection are repurposed from previously archived or redundant stock, ensuring a zero-waste, circular production approach.

Jess McGuire Dudley, Deputy Managing Director, commented: “As a brand, we are continually looking to adapt to our customer and the evolving demands of the market. Through this diffusion line, we can offer high-quality, fashion-forward styles with sustainable credentials, all designed and made in the UK at mindful price points. At the same time, we are highlighting British manufacturing and celebrating the artisans behind our 240-year history. We are excited to partner with John Lewis, the perfect collaborator, to bring this collection to life.”

Anna Bray, Branded Menswear Buying Manager at John Lewis, added: “We are thrilled to be the exclusive stockist of the new JS by John Smedley diffusion line. At John Lewis, our focus is to consistently offer our customers high-quality designs and exciting new brands, so this collection ticks both boxes. The blend of premium craftsmanship and contemporary design elements means it will sit effortlessly within our curated range of trusted labels and brands.”

With prices ranging from £45 for accessories to £190 for garments, the JS by John Smedley collection launches exclusively at johnlewis.com and the Peter Jones location from Thursday, 20th February.

www.johnsmedley.com