Africa meets Savile Row

Calum Robertson, who worked for Savile Row’s “Waistcoat King”, tailors stunning waistcoats from Nigerian hand woven aso oke cloth. Choose your fabric from centuries old classic patterns or the latest designs from the inexhaustible creativity of Yoruba traditional weavers.

Your waistcoat will be individually tailored to your measurements in the finest bespoke tradition of London’s historic tailoring centre.

We also have some interesting old Nigerian textile pieces, robes and stoles, plus beads and other collectables. Our waistcoats are a subtle way to express your appreciation of African culture at the highest level of quality or add a distinctive Afro centric touch to formal occasions such as weddings or more casual party dress.

Calum Robertson has been collecting hand-woven cloth in Nigeria since 1975, and selling it in Islington’s antiques and fashion market since 2003. He also stocks hand made beads and accessories alongside robes, stoles, cushions and throws; but gentlemen’s tailored waistcoats are his masterpieces in this unique material, arguably the most creatively alive today of all Africa’s ancient crafts.

Robertson spends about five weeks each year going around the weaving compounds and cloth markets of south-west Nigeria, commissioning from his regular weavers and studying the development of the industry, which is still remarkably flourishing under mostly local patronage.

He like to think that by encouraging a high-quality export market he is doing his little bit to help the weavers resist the pressure brought by social changes in Nigeria to go down-market, cheap and quick; and to support a worthwhile occupation for young people who have few other opportunities.

Visit us in Islington’s famous market (north end of Camden Passage); or order your waistcoat on-line. Follow the links at the left for more information.