Which Field Jacket Is Right for You?
And other thoughts from a lifelong Barbour wearer
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.
How to maintain your barn jacket: Do NOT throw this jacket in the wash or take it to the dry cleaner! If there are stains, try a sponge and a little cold water. Hang in an airy yet cool place to dry. If there’s mud or dirt, wait for it to dry, then gently brush it off with a stiff-bristled brush.
The important thing is not to overthink it. One of the best things about field jackets (and all the others mentioned here) is that they are meant to be worn. Don’t be overly precious and don’t coddle your jackets. The best ones have a worn-in look because you’ve been actually wearing them. (Faux-distressing is my particular pet peeve, as you can read here.) To paraphrase Lauren Bacall, “I think your whole life shows in your clothes and you should be proud of that.”
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
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