How hard can it be to build a global fashion brand? (quote from naive technology entrepreneur)
After decades in financial technology business, it was time to try something different.
Our origin story
Why Tech Veterans Started a Shirt Company
After two decades in financial technology, I’d had
my fill of spreadsheets and sales meetings. I wanted to do something different
- something tangible, maybe even fun.
Around that time, my old friend Steve had stumbled
into starting a men’s shirt business. Odd, really, since he never cared much
for fashion. I was intrigued and already had a lot of bold shirts in my
wardrobe so I took a closer look.
The problem was clear: men weren’t wearing ties
anymore, which meant the shirt had become the main way to express themselves.
Yet shirts were stuck in a tragic two-party system. On one side, plain,
lifeless whites and blues. On the other, garish prints that shouted for
attention. Neither suited men who wanted to stand out without looking like they
were trying too hard.
So I joined forces with Steve, and Blake Mill was
born. We set out to make premium shirts that speak - without screaming. Bold,
yes, but also clever. Each design had an inspiration, a story, and often a wink
of dry humour. Some people loved them. Others… not so much. Which was fine for
us. Our focus at Blake Mill was about making shirts for the few, not for
everyone.
Our inspirations come from art, science, music,
culture, philosophy - the things that make life richer and more interesting.
When a concept really lands, we feel it instantly. The design is distinctive,
the story makes us smile, and we know it will connect with the man who wears it
- and all those who notice him.
Yes, we’re building a serious business. But at its
heart, Blake Mill has always been about what our customers want: irreverence,
confidence, and a sense of fun.
Ken, CEO, Cofounder
meet the team
the faces behind blake mill
ken price - cofounder & ceo
Canadian sensibility meets British creativity "From Toronto technology start-up to Manchester design house - it's been quite a journey."
sabrina balsen - customer support manager
The Blake Mill customer advocate making sure everyone’s experience is excellent "Blake Mill gives me the autonomy and authority to do whatever it takes to ensure every customer I help is delighted."
becca joyce - creative marketing manager
The visual genius who brings our mad ideas to life "I love showing the real Blake Mill - from chaotic photoshoots to the excitement of launching new designs."
james aghaji - ecommerce manager
The tech whiz working on our website to bring you our amazing shirts and service "I am always amazed at how advanced and sophisticated the technology is behind running a top end e-commerce store."
why we're different
not your average shirt company
THOUGHTFUL DESIGN
Every graphic design has a unique inspiration and often tells a story - from flowing lava to mathematical equations.
UNCOMPROMISING QUALITY
Premium fabrics and meticulous construction because good design deserves an excellent foundation.
FOR GROWN-UP MEN
Designed for gents who've outgrown fast, trendy fashion but who haven't lost their edge.
LIMITED RUNS
Small batches mean you won't see yourself at every social gathering or conference.
REAL PEOPLE, REAL SERVICE
Email or call us. A human will answer right away or reply to messages within 1 business day (at most!). Promise.
SHIRTS WITH PURPOSE
We support Mind, the UK mental health charity - looking good whilst doing good.
VALUES IN ACTION
WHAT DRIVES US
BE BOLD
Don’t blend in. If you’re going to wear a shirt, wear one that makes a statement about who you are.
BE CURIOUS
Inspiration is everywhere. From brain waves to volcanos - we never stop looking and nor should you.
BE KIND
£50,000+ of product donated to Mind charity shops in the UK.
"Mental health matters to us. Many of our customers tell us wearing something bold gives them confidence. That's powerful." - Ken.
Learn about our charity partner - Visit Mind.org.uk.
behind the scenes
the real blake mill
Watch Becca capture the controlled chaos of our photoshoots, see how designs go from concept to shirt, and meet the models who bring our vision to life.
"No corporate gloss here - just real people making shirts we'd want to wear ourselves."
in the press
what they're saying
T3 Magazine ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Blake Mill is redefining British menswear one conversation-starting shirt at a time" Read full review
Esquire
"Finally, someone's designing for men who think". Read article here.
Customer Reviews 4.8/5 from 2,500+ verified buyers
"Bought one shirt. Now own twelve. My wife says I'm obsessed. She's right." — James, 52
connect with us
join our community
Be first to see new designs, get exclusive offers, and join thousands of men who've decided boring is optional.
If you are a Blake Mill customer and enthusiast then we invite you join our WhatsApp Group: The Rogue Club. Email us at info@blakemill.com to request an invitation.
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