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To mark the Queens Platinum Jubilee, we are celebrating one of our amazing Made in England pieces.
THE ORIGIN OF THE UTILITY JACKET
The utility jacket, also known as the chore coat or worker jacket originates from 19th-century France. Traditionally made from moleskin and cotton drill these jackets were durable, with their simple button fastenings and large pockets for tools they quickly became the uniform of farmers, engineers and manufacturers.
Dyed a distinctive French blue colour with the hopes of masking marks from daily work, chore coats are said to be where the term ‘blue collar worker’ derives from.
After reaching American farmlands the chore coat was adopted by big brands and subcultures. Since workwear has become a style worn by men who don’t just work in factories, much like your favourite pair of jeans utility jackets are a staple piece of outerwear perfect for every occasion. Plus, who doesn’t love a pocket?
IN OTHER POPULAR NEWS
During the 20th century the utility jacket started to pop up in film and fashion. Whether it was on the streets of New York as Bill Cunnigham cycled around snapping fashion streetwear photography or slung on Tim Robbins in The Shawshank Redemption, the utility jacket was in the forefront of consumers minds.
WHAT DEFINES A UTILITY JACKET?
There has been an evolution of the utility jacket through fabric and colour however signature details remain. Button-down fronts, patch pockets and pointed collars are still the main features of modern utility jackets.
THE PARKA UTILITY JACKET
The Parka utility jacket is designed and crafted from luxurious wool here in London. Adopting the classic boxy shape our mid-weight jacket is a suitable for every occasion, throw on whenever, wardrobe must-have!
Once useful for holding tools but maybe now more useful for holding your phone (or a water bottle if you're Bill), our jacket stays true to its workwear heritage showcasing 4 exterior patch pockets and 2 internal pockets.
Whatever your go to style the utility jacket is an any-weather favourite, relied on to make every outfit classic and streamlined.
