90s ORVIS great fabric long vest

I apologize for the excessive number of photos. It’s just too good, so I’m posting all of them.

A super long vest in a black & white tribal cotton cloth.

What first caught my eye about this wonderful, dress-like, gown-like garment was the fabric.

A black and white tribal pattern is printed onto cotton with a natural texture that seems to have a bit of linen in it.

It’s a fabric with a seriously cool aura. First, please take a look at the photos.

Even though it’s tribal, it doesn't feel overly ethnic; the sophisticated black and white textile gives it a modern air. It is truly, truly wonderful.

A gown vest that makes ample use of such a wonderful textile. It’s a large design that can be worn on its own like a dress, or thrown over a trench coat or other outerwear.

The brand is none other than the long-established outdoor wear manufacturer ORVIS.

When I think of Orvis, I think of fishing vests, hunting jackets,

and high-quality gear and wear for the world of men,

so this unexpected combination left me baffled.

I think of Orvis as a brand that makes clothes for specific scenes or purposes,

so the mystery of such a fashion item—and one likely intended for women—left me wondering if it might be a collaboration with another maker.

I struggled and searched extensively, but couldn't find a single thing.

What I did learn is that this textile is a traditional cotton cloth from Mali in West Africa.

Originating from Mali, where more than half the country is desert. It’s a traditional, hand-made textile so valued that old pieces are even kept in the British Museum.

Each pattern has a meaning, and it is said that wearing them can ward off evil, holding a shamanistic significance.

How fascinating. It was another encounter with a culture I hadn't known about.

It’s fun to be able to jump from a single piece of fabric into the culture of a country and people I knew nothing about until yesterday. Haha.

It is still produced in Mali today and seems to be popular for cushion covers and blankets,

but whether Orvis purchased the cloth or made it from scratch, absolutely everything about it remains unknown. Haha.

A super rare, unique, and mysterious garment released by Orvis through some twist of fate. It really is cool! Highly recommended.

I wore it over the suede dress I also listed this time, but

thanks to its large design, it can be worn over any type of clothing, including thick knits and autumn/winter coats.

The design features ties to close the front and large pockets on both thighs. It also has side slits.

The lining is a thin black cotton. It has a sturdy, double-layered feel—not too light, not too heavy. Please enjoy it year-round.

*Already washed once.

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Model height - 167cm

Material - maybe cotton 100 or mix linen

Size - fits FREE

Measurement on flat (cm)
Length 135
Width 62
Shoulder width 43

Condition - Very clean.