BESPOKE IS BEST

Elizabeth Kading, shirtmaker and owner of five8ths

‘I began focusing exclusively on shirts in 2010 – I wanted to create clothing that fits well, is made well and is classic in style so it lasts from season to season. Our name comes from the standard seam allowance, in inches, on sewing patterns in the 1950s and 60s. It’s a symbol of quality – today, seam allowances are smaller, so a garment can’t be finished as finely. We craft each shirt according to a pattern we create for each customer based on their measurements. Clients can choose from a variety of cottons and linens from Italy and Japan, and can choose collars, cuffs and all the other details that make their shirt special. We came to Joburg from the US in 2013, first opening in Maboneng; we moved to 44 Stanley last year. I’ve found it to be a place where people are happy to have a conversation, share ideas and work together. Our neighbours, Lunar and Black Coffee, also produce their clothing right inside their retail/workshop space, like we do.’ 079-739-9265