About Us
Shepherd & Woodward are a traditional clothing outfitters in the High Street, Oxford, England. In particular, we provide academic gowns and other clothing for the University of Oxford. The shop's origins date back to 1845.
The company was set up by Arthur Shepherd, who in 1877 took over the tailor's shop of Arthur Brockington in 62 Cornmarket St, Oxford. After Arthur's death in 1895, his son Ernest took over the business, and in 1902 he opened a branch named Arthur Shepherd in 32 Trinity St, Cambridge under independent management. In 1929 Ernest Shepherd merged his business with Wilton Woodward, and moved their premises, now renamed Shepherd & Woodward, to The High. Originally a gentleman's tailor, it has over the years specialised in academic dress and academic memorabilia as well.
Dennis Venables, apprenticed in 1930, bought the business and it has remained in the family since. He was joined by his sons John in 1957 and Peter in 1963. John has sadly passed but his brother Peter continues to keep a keen eye on the business which is now managed by his niece (John's daughter), Lisa Venables.
Please do come shopping and support an Independent Oxford family business.
Shepherd & Woodward are the largest supplier of Academic Gowns and Robes to Oxford University, having been supplying Oxford undergraduates and postgraduates for over 150 years.
Every student, Fellow, Tutor and Don, in Oxford, knows that our knowledge of Academic regalia has no comparison, and our unique experience ensures that every detail can be guaranteed as correct.
The vast majority of our Academic wear is made in our own work rooms in Oxford, and Gowns requiring embroidery are done in our own embroidery work shop also here in Oxford.
We make gowns to fit all shapes and sizes from small schoolchildren to larger than life giants. Its all part of our service. Gowns, Robes and ceremonial regalia can be supplied for not only Oxford University but for all Academic institutions, Universities, professional bodies and societies, livery companies throughout the world.
We have a wealth of experience and are well placed to advise you on the design of any new Academic wear you are thinking of creating. Academic wear can be made in many different fabrics, polyester, wool/cotton, poly/wool, cotton, silk and velvet, and in many different colours. So when considering Academic or ceremonial wear and accessories look no further than Shepherd & Woodward.
If you find it difficult to travel to see us in the City of Dreaming Spires we are only to happy to visit you (within the UK) to discuss and advise you on your requirements.
UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD: Student Gowns, Graduate Gowns, Graduation Gowns, Master Lace Gowns, Bachelors Lace Gowns, Doctors Gowns, Hoods, headwear and accessories.