Successful Entrepreneur Branches Out by Launching his own Men's Fashion Brand

Businessman James Kingston who has built an award-winning recruitment company to a turnover of £5million in five years, is proving his entrepreneurial spirit by launching an exclusive online luxury clothing brand for men Benedict Raven.

The 36-year-old who already runs Bristol-based recruitment business, Kingston Barnes, launched the new brand yesterday (October 1) aimed at professional modern men who want timeless style and premium quality clothing.

James said: “I’ve always been interested in fashion for men. Working with Directors of billion-pound FTSE 100 companies and being the figurehead of a successful company – means I know it’s important to look good and feel good. I do believe in dressing for success. 

“Yet the days of putting on a formal suit and donning a tie, are becoming a thing of the past in the professional world. 

“I realised I just couldn’t find the complete outfit I wanted without spending hours shopping around different brands. I want to dress in clothing which looks good, makes me feel great yet speaks effortlessly of style and sophistication, completing the perfect ensemble.

“The frustration at not being able to do this easily built to a point where, about 18 months ago, I thought I’d just create a collection of clothes myself.”

It was in March 2017 James started working with fashion designers and experts to create his first collection. He chose the name Benedict Raven – his own alter ego from childhood – and the mission is to ‘make men look and feel great anytime, anywhere’. 

Benedict Raven’s first collection – Timeless – combines timeless design with contemporary style. It includes:

• Blazers – made from 100per cent luxury British wool and Italian wool-blend 
• Knitwear – 100 per cent Merino wool jumpers in polo, roll and V neck styles.
• Shirts – in two styles plain and unique jacquard woven  
• Denim – Slim fit stretch cotton denim

Colours of the collection are deliberately muted in blues, whites, greys and black to complement other clothing whilst reflecting the brands belief of a man’s strength is within his character. Prices start at £110 and every item will include the distinctive yet subtle Benedict Raven feather logo. The logo represents the ethos of the brand aiming high and flying higher. 

“This is a British brand and, where possible, I’ve worked with British based designers and manufacturers and will continue to do so. I’m looking for the best possible quality materials and I’m so excited about this first collection. 

“I’m a very driven person as I have been with my first business which is still a large part of my life. My goal with Benedict Raven is to become the leading online luxury clothing brands for men in the next decade.”

Benedict Raven’s Timeless collection can only be purchased online or at exclusive shows and events across the UK. For more information visit http://benedictraven.co.uk or browse the collection on Instagram at @benedictravenuk https://www.instagram.com/benedictravenuk/