At Robert Old 1909, craftsmanship isn’t just a tradition - it’s the foundation of everything we do. With over a century of sartorial expertise, we’re proud to present our own exclusive line of full canvas suits and jackets, hand-finished in Italy using the finest cloths from across Europe. For those who value authentic tailoring, this is where true quality begins.
What Is Full Canvas Tailoring, and Why Does It Matter?
In the world of luxury menswear, full canvas construction is widely regarded as the gold standard. While many modern suits are made with fused or half-canvas techniques to reduce cost and production time, a full canvas suit takes a different path - one rooted in tradition, craftsmanship, and longevity.
At the core of a full canvas jacket is a floating layer of canvas - typically a blend of horsehair, wool, and cotton - that runs the entire length of the jacket front, from shoulder to hem. This canvas is hand-stitched to the outer fabric, allowing it to move independently and mold naturally to the wearer's body with time and wear. The result is a garment with exceptional drape, structure, and comfort, tailored to improve the more you wear it.
Full canvas construction also improves breathability - the open structure between layers allows air to circulate, keeping the garment lighter and cooler, especially when worn through long hours.
It’s this meticulous construction method that has earned the respect of luxury tailoring houses such as Zegna, Brioni, Canali, Caruso, and Tom Ford - and it’s the exact standard we uphold at Robert Old.
Italian Craftsmanship Meets British Heritage
Every Robert Old full canvas garment is crafted in Italy by seasoned artisans who bring decades of experience to each stitch. These are suits and jackets made the traditional way - with time-honoured techniques like hand-padded lapels, hand-set sleeves, and bar tacks for durability in high-stress areas.
But while our garments are created by the same workshops trusted by global luxury brands, our approach is refreshingly different. We invest in the product - not in celebrity marketing or inflated margins - allowing us to offer garments of uncompromising quality at a price that reflects genuine value.
Our heritage as a family-run British outfitter since 1909 ensures that tradition and modern refinement sit comfortably side by side. It’s a meeting of meticulous Italian execution and understated British taste.
Personally curated by us, for you
At Robert Old, we don’t follow trends for the sake of fashion. Each seasonal collection is personally curated by our experienced team, selecting fabrics, cuts, and silhouettes that reflect timeless style and practical wearability.
We understand that our customers value not just elegance, but garments that fit seamlessly into real lives - from the boardroom to a black-tie event. That’s why we focus on designs that remain relevant year after year, rather than momentary fashion statements.
This close involvement means every piece in our collection has passed through the same critical eye - prioritising quality, balance, and versatility.
The World’s Finest Fabrics - From Italy and the UK
The best tailoring begins with the best cloth. That’s why we source our fabrics from the world’s most prestigious mills - names that are synonymous with luxury and performance:
- Ermenegildo Zegna – Italian elegance with cutting-edge textile innovation
- Loro Piana – peerless softness, richness, and drape
- Drago – high-performance Italian wool with a contemporary edge
- Vitale Barberis Canonico – the world's oldest mill, steeped in heritage and technical expertise
- Fox Brothers – quintessential British flannel, perfect for colder months
From summer-ready fresco and tropical wools to winter-weight flannel and cashmere blends, our range is chosen for its feel, functionality, and flair - ensuring that each suit is not only luxurious to wear but built to endure.
A Contemporary Silhouette, Customised to You
Our full canvas tailoring offers a modern silhouette that respects classic proportions. The result is soft shoulders, a defined waist, and natural drape - flattering yet comfortable. Jackets and trousers are cut for clean lines with easy movement, suitable for business, occasion, or everyday elegance.
For those seeking a more personalised fit, our made-to-measure tailoring service allows you to customise everything from the lapel width and lining to button style, pocket configuration, and of course, your choice of cloth.
Whether you're updating your business wardrobe or investing in a wedding suit that will last a lifetime, we’re here to help you create something truly individual.
Tailoring That Offers True Value
In a marketplace dominated by branding and fashion cycles, we believe in tailoring with real substance. We use the same construction methods, the same artisans, and the same luxury cloth as the most revered fashion houses - but with a sharper focus on value, longevity, and craftsmanship.
For the discerning gentleman who values quality over logos, and tradition over trend, our full canvas tailoring represents a quietly confident alternative - genuine luxury, without the big-brand markup.
Explore our full canvas suits and jackets online or visit our Bournemouth store for a personal consultation. Whether off-the-peg or made-to-measure, our team will guide you towards a garment that’s truly exceptional - and entirely yours by design.
