Want to look GOOD while staying warm this winter? It’s time to take a step outside your comfort zone and move beyond your trusty puffa. Here are the five must-own jackets and coats for Kiwi blokes.
Bomber Jacket
Nothing epitomises effortless cool like a classic bomber. Also known as flight jackets, this style dates back to World War 1 when the US Army signed a contract with The US Army Aviation Clothing Board to make insulated jackets for fighter pilots. Designed to protect against cold winds, they’re usually short in length with a ribbed waistband and cuffs, and are perfect for a range of casual ensembles while combining comfort and versatility.
While traditional bomber jackets were leather, modern styles now also include nylon, polyester and other materials. Think Maverick in Top Gun and wear yours with a pair of classic aviator sunnies.
Overcoat
The overcoat has been a key part of a gentleman’s wardrobe since it was invented in the late 18th century. Often worn as formalwear to represent the wearer’s social status, the overcoat has stood the test of time and is now considered a versatile and stylish classic. While modern overcoats come in a variety of different designs and
styles, they’re easy to identify because they’re long (generally around kneelength)
and warm, and designed to be worn over indoor clothing. Invest in a good-quality, well-fitting overcoat and you’ll always make a good impression, wherever you go.
Biker Jacket
Feeling rebellious? Synonymous with motorbikes and musicians, there’s no
better jacket than a biker jacket – and it’s no surprise it’s been the favourite
of cool kids for decades. Inspired by leather flight jackets worn by military
men in the early 1900s, Manhattan based raincoat designer, Irving Schott,
created the first leather biker jacket for Harley Davidson way back in 1928.
The ‘Perfecto’ was the first example of the refined silhouette that remains a
style-staple today. It looks great with jeans and a T-shirt (hello, James Dean),
making it a quick and easy option for chilly winter afternoons.
Pea Coat
Originally worn by sailors, including the Dutch (who are credited with inventing the style in the 1800s) and the British and US Navy, the pea coat is a durable, short-length coat, developed to withstand the harsh rain, wind and cold temperatures typically experienced at sea. Its traditionally made from heavy navy wool, features broad lapels and a double-breasted front, and often features large buttons and vertical or diagonal pockets.
Today the pea coat offers a more stylish slimline fit, making it a versatile option that can be dressed up or down according to the occasion, or your personal sense of style.
Shearling (or Sherpa)Jacket
When the mercury dips this time of year, you can’t go past a shearling – or Sherpa – jacket. Both are perfect for fighting the cold in style, and feature cosy real, or synthetic, sheep’s wool. A shearling sheepskin is the skin of a shearling lamb that’s tanned, processed, and dyed with the wool still intact – creating a suede or leather
material with a soft wool on the opposite side. Sherpa is a fabric made from polyester fleece, acrylic, or cotton, and is named for its resemblance to the wool-lined clothing worn by the Sherpa people of Nepal. If you’re looking for a stylish yet understated
jacket, a Shearling or Sherpa will treat you right.
