Universal Works produces contemporary menswear.

The companies first collection launched in 2009 with David Keyte (UW co-founder, director, designer) working from his kitchen table with an aim to make real, honest clothing based on fit and good design, though never over designed.

Universal Works was inspired by David’s formative years growing up in a provincial midlands town in the seventies, part of a working class family that loved to dress well; seeing his Dad and Uncles in their work-wear and also when dressing for the weekend.
Next, working as a sign-writers apprentice, whilst experiencing the development of eighties sporting and music subcultures.
And finally a thirty-year span in the fashion industry. From Paul Smith to Maharishi he gained an education from and worked alongside some of the best in the industry.

With David’s life work reading like a description of the companies DNA, Universal Works is about the mixing of ideas; understanding heritage and context underpinned by contemporary needs and aesthetics.

They champion skilled, small-scale production. They produce garments in the right place, both in the UK and overseas, working only with factories they trust, admire and are proud to be associated with.
The company also gives them an opportunity to collaborate with amazing people from artists to writers and anyone in between, a process that inspires continual growth and education.

They are happy and proud to be an independent, small company, always approaching their work with passion and a sense of humour.