One of our recent projects has been the design and production of bespoke shirts and a bespoke aprons for staff at Corney & Barrow bars. Ten bars form a collective of sophisticated Square Mile destinations, serving the best of British brasserie cuisine and fine drinks to Londoners.
Corney & Barrow wanted to move away from the t-shirts and polo shirts of the past and requested a uniform solution that blended a modern, utilitarian look with a smart, professional feel. The solution consists of a pale blue shirt with complementary brown thread on the buttons, matching both C&B Bars’ brand colours and the apron’s cotton fabric.
We popped in to a few of the city centre locations to see the uniforms in action and to meet some of the teams. Here’s who we met!
Gabriela, Waiter
Gabriela says she likes the bar because there’s a totally different atmosphere at breakfast, lunch and dinner. Her favourite customer? The typical British older man, who she says are great for lazy chats about travel and recommendations for things to do in the capital.
Lucie, Bartender
Lucie can’t get too attached to her new uniform, because she’s only got a month left in London before she heads back home to France. Au revoir, Lucie!
Lyubo, Waiter
Lyubo moved to London for a bit of an adventure and says things seem to be working out pretty well so far. He even managed to win a little something on the lottery, which he’s saving up to put towards his education.
Sarah, Bartender
When she’s not tending bar, Sarah’s doing something a little unusual: making her own soap. She says her mum’s been trying to encourage her to set up a soap business on the side – we want to be the first to know if you do, Sarah!
Toby, Bartender
Toby’s a bit of a tinker and likes making his own cocktails. The Pomegranate Sling that’s currently on the menu is one of his inventions, so make sure to give it a try when you’re next in the bar.
Zoltan, Barback
The enigmatic Zoltan would only tell us one thing: that he loves Cuba Libre.
Daniela, Bartender
Daniela says she runs away when her boyfriend tries to take pictures of her, so we’re glad she let us take this lovely shot of her working her new Field Grey uniform.
Vidor, Waiter
Vidor plays rugby back home in France, where Toulouse is his favourite team. As far as football goes he’s a Marseille fan, although Vidor reckons they’ve definitely got room for improvement – we hope you’re listening, boys.
Cristina, Bartender
Cristina plans to open up her own bar by the beach in Tenerife in the next few years. But it doesn’t sound like she’ll need our uniform services. In fact, she reckons the staff won’t even need aprons – just bathing suits!
Photography by Lennie Mason for Field Grey.