Which Field Jacket is Right for You?
This fall, the field jacket/barn jacket is in, and every single retailer seems to have their own options available. It can be seriously overwhelming! I’ve worn a version of a field jacket almost my entire life: my first Barbour was given to me by my grandparents at the age of three, and since then, I’ve never been without one.
Today, I’m highlighting three styles currently available, their history, and how to wear them. I’m focusing solely on styles that have practical uses, as well as aesthetic ones. You’re not going to see the “luxury” versions here (i.e. The Row and Toteme, among others). Those options are lovely, but to me, they feel besides the point. The field jacket/barn jacket is meant for actual use; I can’t imagine I’d feel comfortable wearing a $2,000+ coat for its functional purpose: to get dirty!
Let me know if you have thoughts in the comments, or other great options that I missed!
The Barn Jacket
In the “country” aka my backyard in suburbia, worn with the perfect white shirt, jeans (15% off with FEWER15), and Belgian Shoes
Retailers: LL Bean, Everlane, vintage J. Crew (here and here)
What’s a barn jacket?: Barn jackets generally come in lighter colors and are made from unwaxed canvas (occasionally, as pictured above, they are quilted). They are usually unlined. A barn jacket is a great neutral and wears well with traditional work fabrics (i.e. denim), as well as corduroy (coordinating with the collar and cuffs of barn jackets).
When they work best: For practical use or colder weather (particularly the lined LL Bean option), the barn jacket will see you through. It’s not the best choice for rainy or damp climates, but it’s a great choice for milder weather or early fall. Wear with your Blundstones in the LES when you’re trying to snap that perfect fall photo, or at the stables with your Ariat boots at the barn.
Pro tip: The trees in the little park in front of St. Mark’s-in-the-Bowery have great foliage, and you can snag a delicious cup of coffee across the street at 787 Coffee. There’s also great people-watching and photo-taking opportunities in Stuyvesant Square!
The Waxed Cotton Jacket
In the city, my Barbour Bedale worn with a cashmere turtleneck, J. Crew corduroys, and Belgian Shoes. The perfect blend of town and country
Retailers: Barbour, Orvis, Huckberry
What’s a waxed cotton jacket?: A jacket by many names but with one similarity: the fabric. Waxed cotton jackets come in particularly American styles (like those offered by Huckberry) and British styles (like those offered by Barbour). Water-repellent, warm, and resistant to scratches from brambles and thorns, the waxed jacket is practical and functional, and elegant in its performance.
When they work best: On a hike or a hunt upstate; in downtown Manhattan for the irony; on the North Shore of Long Island with a pair of duBarry boots, its natural habitat.
Pro tip: The Barbour Bedale and Beaufort are the true “country” waxed jackets, as opposed to the Beadnell. While these are marketed as men’s jackets for most retailers, they are true unisex jackets. Take your true size, or size up for room for bulky sweaters and a liner.
The (Real) Field Jacket
Ann Mashburn’s M-65 jacket, worn with a white shirt, crewneck sweater, corduroys, and Chelsea boots. Very “town” and very NOT country.
Retailers: Ann Mashburn, The Real McCoy’s, and many Army/Navy stores
What’s a field jacket?: The real field jacket is derived from US Army uniforms, particularly the M-65 style. The M-65 was made between 1965 and 2005 and it’s the jacket you think of when you think of military outerwear. The style was popularized for civilians by public figures as varied as Steve McQueen and John Lennon. It’s truly American and deeply versatile. I own a version (along with the many that littered my childhood closets, veterans of my father’s Army service) in a great wool flannel from Ann Mashburn. This style includes epaulets, four squared pockets, and often a drawstring waist. It’s classic, practical, and functional, and it’s deeply chic because of those features. If you’re interested in the field jacket style, but not sure you want to give off the Army surplus store vibes, try for one in a softer fabric or less traditional color, like the one offered by Ann Mashburn in the fall.
When they work best: With a bit of friction in your outfit (hey, here I am recommending friction!) or with earnestness; whichever strikes your fancy.
What are your thoughts on field jackets? Do you own one, or are you contemplating one? Have any questions about the ones I’ve featured here? Let me know in the comments section!
