John Smedley launches collaboration with Wales Bonner
British luxury knitwear brand John Smedley is continuing its mission to promote made-in-England manufacturing with a capsule collection in collaboration with London-based label Wales Bonner.
The John Smedley x Wales Bonner capsule knitwear collection debuted at the Wales Bonner spring/summer 2026 show during Paris Fashion Week and features preppy-inspired pieces with merino polo shirts_ quarter zip jumpers_ and stripy jumpers in fine-gauge cotton in bark_ ivory_ and jewel tones.
The British heritage brand reveals that Grace Wales Bonner_ founder and creative director at Wales Bonner_ visited its historic John Smedley mill_ located in Lea Mills_ Derbyshire_ where she explored the manufacturer_s extensive archive spanning over 240 years. Design elements from archive pieces dating back to the mid-20th century inspired her capsule collection_ specifically the chequered-textured knit and lace collar detailing.
“This is knitwear as statement - wearable_ thoughtful_ and enduring. Designed for a global audience_ the capsule blends sartorial codes with soul. Every piece reflects a shared commitment to quality_ expression_ and modern heritage_” explains the brand on its website.
The five-piece John Smedley x Wales Bonner made in England collection will be available to shop on both Wales Bonner and John Smedley websites_ alongside John Smedley stores from February. Prices range from 295 to 395 pounds.
The new collection follows John Smedley's re-opening of its production lines to brands for seasonal orders last year. Working in partnership with The Board of Trade_ the British Fashion Council_ and the UK Fashion and Textiles Association_ the strategic initiative aims to inspire more brands to make goods closer to home. In the 1980s_ before the wave of offshore production_ John Smedley crested knitwear for luxury labels including Burberry_ Paul Smith_ and Vivienne Westwood.
Commenting on the collaboration_ Jess McGuire-Dudley_ managing director at John Smedley_ said in a statement: “John Smedley has long admired Grace Wales Bonner_s design aesthetic and values. When re-opening our third-party manufacturing_ our ambition was to collaborate with brands - both local and international - who truly appreciate our Made in England heritage and who could push the boundaries of knitwear.
“Grace_s blend of integrity and creativity alongside our history of authenticity and craftsmanship makes for a seamless partnership. We_re thrilled to bring this project to life.”