Many an architect and designer have the used phrase “form follows function” when describing an approach to designing everything from skyscrapers and garments. It could be argued that some of the most effective menswear of the last century was also designed using this mantra. Garments that are routinely categorized as staple items today, including the peacoat, the chino and the bomber jacket, all once served a specific purpose. The same goes for our product focus this week, the Field Jacket.
Like most of these items, the Field Jacket was born of the military, a profession in which purposeful design is paramount. The style dates to the 1960s and was heavily used in Vietnam. The Field Jacket style became useful as troops served in South Vietnam and encountered cooler weather during the monsoon season, but also needed a piece that wasn’t too warm during the day. It also provided a utility piece with large pockets for storing gear and other items that he might need to gain quick access to during battle. The length of the Field Jacket was made shorter – mainly at hip length to allow freedom of movement and still provide some protection from the weather. Adjustable tie cords at the waist were added to protect against wind, as well as a zipper with fold over snap front closure, which also provided protection from the wet and cold weather.
Source: US Army
When Vietnam vets returned stateside – many continued to wear their military-issued Field Jackets which led to the style being adopted by others, morphing into the modern version we see today. Although there are a lot of variations on the original Field Jacket, some of the original design elements have transferred into current versions. Specifically, hip jacket length, large flap closure pockets, and a zipper with fold over snap closure.
Source: US Army
Why should you try the Field Jacket?
The Field Jacket provides the modern man protection from daily elements just as the original version helped soldiers in Vietnam. A layer of warmth for cooler evenings and mornings as we move from Winter into Spring. Wind and rain protection on the commute. And large flap pockets for holding cell phones, headphones, and other everyday carry items.
Our version of the Field Jacket brings a lot of these same elements to your wardrobe.
First and foremost – we offer a custom-made version that allows you to achieve the fit you want in the jacket as opposed to making an off-the-rack version work. This means you could size it to wear over a single layer, or even size up to wear your Field Jacket over your sportcoat – both valid options in wearing a Field Jacket.
Secondly, we offer advanced fabrics that add even more versatility to a J.Hilburn Field Jacket.
Vitale Barberis Canonico Wool Bonded Outerwear Fabrics
These are unique in that the exterior (face) side of the fabric is 100% wool, which gives the jacket a more refined look. The back of the fabric is bonded with a tech poly which adds protection from wind and rain, and a “built-in” lining which adds a touch of whimsy to your new Field Jacket.
Navy with Mid-Blue Solid
Grey with Light Grey Solid
Grey with Light Green Camo
J.Hilburn Tech Polyester Outerwear Fabrics
These are J.Hilburn classic outerwear fabrics. 100% Polyester but much more technically advanced than your normal poly. Ours are wind and rain resistant and offered in a matte finish which gives a better look to the finished product.
Black Tech
Navy Tech
Stone Tech
And lastly, we have a full product assortment for your wardrobe with your new Field Jacket. Our combinations of unique color, texture and utility celebrate the history of the Field Jacket in a bold yet balanced way.
