You might try some of the American suppliers for Old West (cowboy) reenactors....a lot of those leather vests actually come out of India.

I use "Once were Warriors" video in alcoholism groups a lot. Always admired the woven leather vests worn by the Maori gangs in the movie. Don't know if that would be culturally appropriate/safe to wear. Sure wish I could find a source for them...without the gang patch of course...