The British brand most associated with Mod scarves, and Cravats can trace its roots back to 1799 and Robert Gardner, a textile merchant and quite possibly the most stylish man who lived in Manchester at that time. With the arrival of steam power and canals Manchester – or “Cottonopolis” as it was nicknamed in the 19th Century – thrived as the centre of the textile industry. In 1842, Edward Tootal, “a merchant in silks and fancy dress materials” joined the rapidly expanding successful business.