John Lewis and Marks & Spencer are among those boosting menswear investment as customers return to suits and formalwear.

UK retailers are reporting a sharp revival in men’s tailoring, with demand for suits, jackets and formalwear surging as more workers commute back to the office and social calendars fill up.

John Lewis said sales of its own-brand suits have climbed 68% year on year, while formal outerwear has soared 584%. The department store has also seen a 23% rise in personal stylist appointments among men. In response, it is opening a new tailoring concept at its Oxford Street store and has launched a premium menswear label, J Lewis.

“Tailoring obviously took a real backstep through Covid in everybody’s wardrobes,” said Vikki Kavanagh, chief commercial officer. “It is now back with a vengeance and we are investing heavily in menswear this season.”

Marks & Spencer has also recorded strong growth, selling 37,500 suits priced at £120 each in the past month alone, with overall suit sales up 18% over two years. The retailer launched its M&S Man social channel in September to target younger shoppers and now offers suit-fitting services in 50 stores.

A spokesperson said men are “smarten[ing] up their wardrobes for work as well as special occasions like proms and weddings,” adding that breathable fabrics, stretch innovation and versatile separates are driving demand.

Industry insiders link the rebound to the end of pandemic-era casualwear and a shift towards “sharper looks” for both the office and events. Private styling services are becoming increasingly popular as male shoppers seek guidance on formal dressing that balances style with comfort.

For smaller menswear specialists, the resurgence in tailoring could provide an opportunity to compete with the high street by emphasising bespoke services, niche styles or local convenience.

As the big chains double down on formalwear, independent retailers may find renewed demand for alterations, custom designs and one-to-one advice – areas where personal service often trumps scale.