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Peacoat, pilot jacket or reefer jacket; call it what you will, peacoats have been a winter wardrobe essential for men since the 1700s. Although trends come and go, with it’s shorter length, broad lapels and a classic double-breasted front, modern versions have largely stayed faithful to the original design. Men’s tailored pea coats have emerged yet again as a key trend for autumn/winter 2020, so what is it that makes this such a must-have style?
Although classic is a phrase which tends to be bandied around the world of tailoring, it really does fit the bill when it comes to the peacoat. The original peacoat design is clearly still the best as apart from a few minor refinements, it has changed little over the past 300 years. However, some of the coat’s original finishing nautical inspired touches – brass buttons, for example – aren’t often seen in today’s designs.
Peacoats were first worn by mariners and the double-breasted, cropped style is firmly anchored in naval heritage. Sported by everyone from Robert Redford in Three Days of the Condor and Daniel Craig in SkyFall, through to Bob Dylan and James Dean, the pea coat’s practicality and great cut have continued to earn it a place in the style hall of fame.
Most often seen made from navy blue coloured Melton wool, thanks to its easy style and versatility, the pea coat is an easy design to stamp with your own style. Classic peacoats have a double-breasted, cropped cut that’s designed to allow the wearer plenty of room to move, whether you’re hoisting the mainsail or cutting your way through to the bar. In addition, the generous cut of a peacoat makes layering easy – think heavy knit sweaters in the winter, or a shirt or thin knit layer in autumn and early spring.
Investing in bespoke men’s tailored peacoat is not only a great way to ensure you have a coat which reflects your own unique sense of style, it will also fit you perfectly. Going bespoke gives you the option to choose the perfect fabric for you. After all, there’s no law to say that a peacoat has to be navy blue, is there? From colourful checks through to classically simple grey or black, a tailored pea coat will form the keystone of your autumn/winter wardrobe for many years to come.
There’s no need to stick to the ‘rules’ when it comes to your choice of lining or finishing touches either so why not go for something a little different? Lightweight merino wool or cashmere versions look fantastic, whilst extra details such as belts, taping or buttons can help you ensure your tailored peacoat is, literally, a cut above the rest.
Last and by no means least, the enduring popularity of the peacoat probably lies in its versatility. Whether worn as an outer layer as part of a formal outfit for work, or teamed up with a thick sweater, jeans and boots for the weekend, the possibilities are endless.
Our team of talented tailors travel the length and breadth of the country, visiting our valued customers in their homes and workplaces – offering you a convenient way to invest in beautiful bespoke tailoring. For those who prefer to visit the highstreet to do their shopping, our tailoring workshops are situated in the bustling Spitalfields area of London, and the picturesque spa town of Ilkley, West Yorkshire. For any more information on how to commission your own mens tailored Peacoat, contact one of the Norton & Townsend team.
