Introducing “Bowhill & Friends,” a new initiative that brings together collections from some of our favourite brands under the Bowhill roof. Launched at the end of last year with a successful one-day pop-up, we featured Blackhorse Lane Atelier, Yarmouth Oilskins, and the bespoke tailors MacAngus & Wainwright in our slipper lounge. Due to this success, we are excited to announce that Bowhill & Friends will now be a permanent addition to our shop floor.
Working with brands that share our ‘Made in England’ ethos is close to our heart at Bowhill and something we have been backing since day one. If you have been here for a while you’ll know our long heritage, manufacturing fine velvet slippers since 1874. When it comes to shoes, it’s not just our handmade velvet slippers available though, you can also discover English welted footwear brands for men and women in-store and online. Crockett & Jones, Cheaney & Sons and Trickers are just a few names to note, plus Penelope Chilvers and Birkenstock. Keeping the tradition of UK craftsmanship alive and kicking is one of our brand values and we think you’ll agree Blackhorse Lane Atelier, Yarmouth Oilskins and MacAngus & Wainwright more than nail the brief. We couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome these powerhouses into the Bowhill fold.
Read on for all you need to know about these three brands, exclusively available in-store.
The denim on our wish-list
First up, Blackhorse Lane Ateliers, a brand that we have been coveting for a while. The story goes that Marc visited the Walthamstow factory, back in 2016 with his wife and newborn baby. On a mission to buy some new jeans, it was there while on a tour of the East London atelier, he met their founder Han and the enthusiasm for Blackhorse Lane was solidified. The chance to see first hand, how they make jeans using craft and slow fashion techniques was fascinating.
Offering ready-to-wear organic raw denim for both men and women with an emphasis on sustainability, think-free repairs for life and quality at the forefront of their designs. We know you’re going to be obsessed as us.
What can you expect to find at Bowhill & Elliott? First and foremost, the NW1 Relaxed Straight jeans, a best-seller from Blackhorse Lane, are now available in Norwich. These jeans feature Japanese raw selvedge denim in a relaxed straight-leg design with a slight taper, making them a classic fit that works well from work to the weekend. Inspired by the rebels of the 1950s but updated with modern details, we appreciate the reinforced back pockets and the fact that the belt loops are sewn into the waistband for added strength. They are both durable and stylish—definitely a win!
Maybe you’re a fan of a slimmer leg? Step forward to the NW8 Heritage Slim fit, in an indigo blue hue with a higher back rise and front rise sitting at the hip, creating a comfortable fit at £245. Look out for the 100% cotton 13.75oz raw selvedge denim, woven in Italy by Candiani Mills. We invite you to come in-store and get up close and personal. You’ll find that raw denim does have a rigid feel but it will relax and soften over time. Marc has pairs that have moulded to his body, fitting better and better with each wear.
Whether it’s Italian or Japanese denim, what stands out about a pair of jeans from Blackhorse Lane is the quality. Using a mix of tailoring innovation and heritage construction, with each pair 100% made in East London. These premium jeans are like no other. Both the NW1 and the NW1 are pre-hemmed at a 35” leg and ready to take away with you on the day but if you do want more of a precise length we can measure you and order straight from their atelier. Available in sizes 29” to 38” waist.
The coolest workwear
Vintage-inspired workwear is currently trending in menswear, offering a functional and fuss-free approach to dressing while incorporating sustainability. One notable brand in the workwear scene is Yarmouth Oilskins. Renowned for its innovative but relaxed designs that incorporate traditional techniques, the brand utilizes many of its original patterns, all crafted in Great Yarmouth.
Like us, they are a family-owned business, currently in their seventh generation. They share several qualities with us: both are English manufacturers, both are heritage brands, and both produce their goods in Norfolk. We particularly appreciate the design details that Sophie, the Creative Director, brings to the table; for instance, the kangaroo pocket on the Hooded Smock is a standout feature. Additionally, you’ll find buttons sourced from Lancashire and knitwear made in Shetland, with the majority of their pieces crafted from durable cotton twill. Explore our shop floor, where you can discover the stylish Engineer jacket and the versatile Deck trousers—perfect additions to elevate your wardrobe! Wear them together as a chic relaxed suit or mix and match with your favourite items.
Made by one artisan from start to finish, ensuring unparalleled quality from start to finish. With an impressive history of over 100 years in oilskin clothing, Yarmouth Oilskins exemplifies tradition and craftsmanship. That’s why we knew we had to feature their oilskin in our collection. After 18 months of development, Sophie has re-introduced oil skin in the Hooded Smock, it’s now coated in a dry wax, meaning it is water-repellent, wind-proof and breathable. Available in-store in the Forest Green and Mustard at £300, this is more than just clothing it’s chance to support British made manufacturing and invest in your style.
Your next bespoke suit
Finally, we arrive at bespoke tailoring. If you’re looking to upgrade your existing wardrobe or are in the market for some black-tie attire, be sure to consider the tailors MacAngus & Wainwright. We take great pride in bringing bespoke tailoring to Norwich. It has been over a year since we introduced MacAngus & Wainwright in-store, and the response from you all has been fantastic.
MacAngus & Wainwright join us for their monthly residency, typically on the first Saturday of every month in the slipper lounge. With wedding season fast approaching, now is the time to ensure you are dressed to impress from head-to-toe. So if you haven’t done so already, it’s the perfect opportunity to invest in bespoke tailoring and elevate your style.
Richard is available to book for a one-on-one appointment through email, call or DM us on instagram.