The Harrington jacket: an iconic garment through the ages
What is a Harrington jacket?
The Harrington jacket is a lightweight, fitted jacket with a zip fastening, usually made from cotton, polyester or a mixture of the two. Characteristic of the Harrington jacket are the chequered lining, often in a tartan pattern, the elasticated cuffs and hem and the slanted pockets with flaps. The jacket is both functional and stylish and became popular in the 1960s.
History
The Harrington jacket was designed in the 1930s by John and Isaac Miller, the founders of the British company Baracuta. Originally known as the G9, the jacket was designed for golfers who needed a lightweight, water-repellent jacket that offered sufficient freedom of movement. The name "Harrington" was popularised in the 1960s by the American television series "Peyton Place", in which the character Rodney Harrington, played by Ryan O'Neal, often wore such a jacket.
Pop culture and subcultures
The Harrington jacket quickly found its way into pop culture and was worn by icons such as Elvis Presley and Steve McQueen. Presley wore a Harrington jacket in the film "King Creole" (1958), and McQueen made it famous in "The Thomas Crown Affair" (1968). These connections to Hollywood stars gave the jacket a status as a fashion statement.
In the 1970s and 1980s, the Harrington jacket was adopted by various subcultures. It was particularly popular with British mods, who combined it with slim trousers and polo shirts. Later, it was also worn by skinheads and punks, who used the jacket as an expression of their rebellion and individual style.
Brands such as Ben Sherman and Fred Perry have also been instrumental in keeping the Harrington jacket popular in these subcultures by combining classic designs with modern elements
Harrington jacket in today's world
Today, the Harrington jacket is a timeless garment worn by people of all ages and styles. It remains a staple of many fashion brands and comes in a variety of colours and materials.
The versatility of the Harrington jacket makes it an ideal choice for different occasions, whether casual or more formal. Its lightweight yet robust construction makes it ideal for changeable weather.
Summary
The Harrington jacket has a rich history and is deeply rooted in various cultures and subcultures. From its beginnings as a golf jacket in the 1930s to its status as a fashion icon in the 1960s and its popularity in various subcultures, it remains a symbol of style, functionality and timeless elegance. Thanks to brands such as Baracuta, Fred Perry and Ben Sherman, which continue the tradition of the Harrington jacket while giving it a modern interpretation, this garment remains an indispensable part of the fashion world.
