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 Jackets
Jackets are can usually be categorised into two main styles,
Waist length jackets are similar in design to a men's formal shirt. Featuring a collar, cuffs, and similar width and length dimensions. The only difference is a vertical zipper rather than buttons, and much thicker materials to keep the wearer warm in colder climates. A hip length jacket usually follows the same pattern, but with additional length to the hips. A blazer is a prime example of a hip length jacket. Waterproof jackets such as Berghaus's 'four seasons' are pretty much identical to a blazer, but, instead of materials like tweed, they use space age materials like Gore-Tex® to keep the garment waterproof, breathable and windproof. While jackets can be categorised into two broad styes: hip and waist length, there are a number of further categorisations. Listed below, are some popular types of jackets. Blazer - Identical in style to a suit jacket, usually features three golden cuff buttons called 'metal shank buttons'. A blazer can be worn with jeans or trousers. And can be used for casual occasions like a boating jacket or formal occasions like a school, airline or social club blazer. Bomber - It first originated as a flight jacket for US airmen in the first World War. It was originally made from extremely thick sheepskin and leather to keep pilots warm on long bombing missions. Later versions have been made from silk and nylon, and in the 70's and 80's the skinhead culture of the UK wore a bomber jacket with Dr Martens boots. Chef - Made from thick cotton, always white, to highlight dirt and stains which need removing, double breasted upto the collar. Denim - Increased in popularity during the late 1980's. Always waist length, usually without any inner lining, and is only slightly thicker in material than a denim shirt. Donkey - Traditionally a hip length manual workers jacket, with a plastic covering on the shoulders to protect the material against a host of work related accidents. Flak - Used for rural pursuits, and has recently been modified as a bulletproof vests. Waist length, the arms cut off at the armpits, and can easily accommodate protective plating into the material. You will often see rural 'game' hunters, and clay pigeon shooters in green or tweed flak jackets. Fleece - A relatively new addition, fleece is a polar protective material made from synthetic wool. Ideal for freezing conditions, the style and dimensions are not set. Leather - Easily the most popular, famous and widespread waist
length jacket. Popularised in 1950's movies like 'The Wild One', it was
originally worn by biker gangs such as the Hell's Angels and has always
retained a touch of rebellious spirit. By the 1980's however it's widespread
popularity has somewhat tarnished it's 'bad' boy image. Smoking - Currently out of vogue, like smoking. It was once the height of fashion, especially in Victorian times, usually made from thick velvet, but can be made from fine silks. Hugh Hefner is perhaps the last high profile exponent of the smoking jacket. Windbreaker - Usually constructed from a lightweight, waterproof synthetic material. Is commonly referred to as 'waterproofs' in the UK. Is also usually accompanied by some waterproof trousers.
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