what's on my mind: field jackets

and its "tough" exterior

What I love about fashion is how cyclical it is.

I am kicking off my new “What’s on My Mind” series with my thoughts on the field jacket.

In the past several days I’ve watched content across TikTok and Instagram (one of my favorite creators’ latest post mentions it) about its functionality and how chic it is to style with Spring essentials.

I’ve been leaning more towards utility style jackets (I have one in denim that I absolutely love and mentioned it in my last post) lately and I’m wondering if it’s because of my haircut that I’m going for more masculine and “straight” silhouettes.

When I did my research, I found out that the field jacket (specifically the M-1965, so named after the year it was produced) has a military background dating all the way back to 1941 with its first iteration. Granted military uniforms have been around for centuries, over the years, these military garments have been refined and transformed to maintain its practicality and efficiency in the field. Over time, it was appropriated as a representation of the counterculture movement. Now in the present day, it is deemed a fashion accessory.

Growing up, I’ve seen this iconic olive green color, multiple pockets with its “tough” shell exterior in newspapers, magazines, films and television shows.

Also the beloved late Queen herself was very fond of her Barbour.

Image from British Vogue

I find this look of Alexa Chung with her Barbour jacket and wellies so iconic (Image from British Vogue)

And when I was reminded of how much Alexa Chung and Sienna Miller loved theirs and styled them so effortlessly, I had to try them on for myself¹.

Polo Ralph Lauren Relaxed Fit Surplus Broken Twill Jacket in XS

Things I reflected on while I tried on one at my local Ralph Lauren boutique:

Pros:

• The olive green is so iconic

• The silhouette (especially in the shoulders)

• Of course, the pockets

Cons:

• Honestly, I couldn’t think of any. I did wonder how it would look with a leather or faux fur trim collar detail. But I realize now looking back on my try on photos and videos that this particular jacket is just fine without the extra details.

Speaking of utilitarian, I tried on a couple more styles in the similar vein of the utility jacket:

These coveralls were surprisingly comfortable and soft; as a short person, I appreciate the option to tie around the ankles. I actually think this olive green goes well with my socks.

Embroidered Jacquard Coverall in size 1. I am wearing the Tecovas Annie knee high boots.

Cotton Chore Jacket in Small

Here are some recommendations if you’re in the market for a utility jacket for Spring season. I personally feel like it’s a great transition piece to warmer weather and something to keep in your closet:

Recommendations:

• Here is quilted one in a men’s size on Farfetch. It’s the Polo Ralph Lauren Beaton Jacket.

• The waxed Barbour jackets give an extra oomph with its detailing on the collars (I find the corduroy so cozy and classic).

• The M.M. La Fleur Ness jacket is made from a cotton-nylon blend with pockets where you can store all your essentials; lip balm, phone, wallet, keys. The Terragon color is unique and lovely.

• Arc’teryx infuses warmth with its waterproof-ness and top tier; I am positively drooling over this Ifora Down in black.

• This eBay find is beautiful. It is from Banana Republic in the men’s size small; at $50.00 USD this is a steal.

• And of course, everything from the Ganni x Barbour collab. The iconic wide collar and quilted pattern style is every pragmatic fashionista’s dream.

1. No affiliate links are included in this Substack. I will not receive commission for items sold through this column.