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Jacket

A jacket is a hip- or waist-length outer garment for the upper body, typically featuring a front opening, , sleeves, and often lapels and pockets, designed to provide warmth, protection, or style. The word "jacket" originated in the from the jaquette, a form referring to a short tunic-like garment. Jackets evolved from medieval tunics and jerkins into tailored outerwear by the , diversifying in the 18th and 19th centuries with styles like the Spencer and jackets for and function. In the , jackets became fashion staples, influenced by designers like , who introduced a fitted jacket with a straight silhouette, chain-weighted hems, and braided trim in the 1920s, promoting comfort post-World War I. Military designs, such as the A-2 (1931) and M-1943 field jacket (1943), emphasized durability for pilots and troops. Contemporary jackets include versatile types like the (zipped with ribbed cuffs, from WWII aviator gear), (semi-formal with metal buttons), and (rugged , popularized mid-20th century), used in casual, professional, and subcultural settings.

Etymology and Definition

Etymology

The term "jacket" originates from jaquet (15th century), a form of jaque, which referred to a short or . This word denoted a close-fitting garment, often associated with everyday or working attire. The etymology of jaque itself is uncertain, with two primary theories. One links it to the common French peasant name Jacques, reflecting its initial association with simple, short tunics worn by rural laborers in medieval France. An alternative derivation traces it to Old Occitan jaca or Spanish chaqueta, ultimately from Arabic shakk meaning "breastplate" or padded armor, suggesting early connections to quilted protective undergarments worn beneath plate armor in the 15th century. The Spanish chaqueta evolved similarly as a diminutive form borrowed from French jaquette, emphasizing lightweight, padded outer layers. By the 15th and 16th centuries, the jaquette influenced English adoption of "," initially describing a short, close-fitting garment for men, distinct from fuller-length coats. In 16th-century English texts, such as inventories and wardrobe accounts from the , "jacket" commonly denoted hip-length outerwear, often made of or for daily use, setting it apart linguistically from longer, more formal "coats." This usage marked the word's transition into by the late 1500s.

Definition and Characteristics

A jacket is an outer garment designed for the upper , typically extending from the shoulders to the hips or , and featuring long sleeves, a front opening with closures such as buttons or zippers, a , lapels, and pockets. This distinguishes it from longer outerwear like , which extend below the hips for greater coverage. Key characteristics of a jacket include its hip-length design, which provides moderate protection without the full-body enclosure of a ; structured shoulders that offer shape and support; and a front opening that allows for easy over or other inner garments. Variations exist in for warmth retention, for weather resistance, and fit, ranging from fitted silhouettes that contour the to loose styles that prioritize comfort and mobility. Functionally, jackets serve to protect against elements like and light rain, enable in variable temperatures, or function as standalone pieces for casual or formal attire. Unlike vests, which lack sleeves and focus on coverage alone, or , which are knitted open-front sweaters without rigid structure, jackets emphasize durability and versatility as outerwear. The basic of a typically includes a , a front , sleeves, a hem, and pockets, though specific elements like lapels or cuffs vary by style and purpose, contributing to its form and utility.

History

Early Origins

Early humans fashioned upper-body coverings from animal skins and furs as early as approximately years ago to provide warmth and protection against the elements in cooler climates, with evidence including bone needles for and traces of hide processing at sites. These rudimentary garments, often draped or crudely stitched, represent the initial development of protective outerwear, as depicted in cave art and supported by archaeological finds of tailored components from the period. In ancient civilizations, jacket-like garments emerged from basic wraps and tunics designed for functionality. Around 3000 BCE in , linen tunics with short sleeves were worn, primarily by laborers and elites, as evidenced by tomb reliefs and preserved textiles from , offering lightweight protection in the hot climate while allowing mobility. In Mesopotamia circa 2900–2500 BCE, woolen wraps and fringed skirts known as served as early upper-body coverings, made from sheepskin or tufted wool fabric, with royal tombs at yielding artifacts that highlight their use for both everyday wear and status display among Sumerians and Akkadians. By the classical era, and cultures refined these into more structured forms; the , a short woolen cloak fastened at one shoulder, appeared around 500 BCE as military and hunting attire for men, evolving in adoption into fitted upper garments like the for soldiers, providing concise protection over tunics. In medieval Europe from the 11th to 14th centuries, the —a padded, quilted jacket of or stuffed with batting—emerged as essential under-armor for knights and common soldiers, absorbing impacts and worn standalone by civilians, with illustrations from the and surviving examples confirming its widespread use across social classes. Regional variations further diversified early jacket forms, particularly in . During China's (206 BCE–220 CE), silk —short jackets with wide sleeves—were integral to layered ensembles for both men and women, symbolizing status and comfort, as seen in tomb excavations revealing finely woven silk upper garments paired with skirts or trousers. In , precursors to the jacket developed during the (1603–1868), evolving from earlier overcoats into lightweight silk or cotton wraps worn over by merchants and for modesty and warmth, with edicts restricting luxurious fabrics influencing their plain yet practical design.

Evolution in the 19th and 20th Centuries

In the , jackets evolved significantly in , where tailored and morning coats became staples of formal menswear from the 1830s to 1900. The , characterized by its knee-length cut, fitted waist, and full skirts, emerged as a versatile daytime garment for professional and social occasions, reflecting the era's emphasis on structured silhouettes. Similarly, the morning coat, with its curved fronts and tails, was introduced as formal morning attire, often paired with striped trousers, and symbolized the refined masculinity of the upper classes during the Victorian period. Across the Atlantic, the sack suit jacket rose in the United States around the 1880s, designed for through industrial methods like and sewing machines, making affordable, unstructured coats accessible to the growing and workers. The further propelled jacket development by enabling production of practical and garments for laborers, shifting focus from to utilitarian designs. In , the chore coat appeared in the late as a durable work jacket made from heavy or , featuring large patch pockets for tools and a simple, boxy fit that prioritized functionality over ornamentation. These mass-produced jackets, often in indigo-dyed fabrics for visibility and wear resistance, equipped workers, farmers, and railroad laborers across and , democratizing protective outerwear amid rapid . The 20th century saw jackets influenced heavily by military needs, with the British debuting in 1914 during as a waterproof, garment by , featuring a front, epaulettes, and storm flap for conditions. In , the U.S. Army's M-1941 field jacket, introduced in 1941, replaced wool service coats with a lighter, olive-drab cotton design including a bi-swing back and knife pleats for mobility over layers. Post-war casualization brought the leather biker jacket into prominence in the 1940s, evolving from motorcycle racing gear into a rugged, zippered style symbolizing rebellion, while the varsity jacket traced its roots to , where letterman sweaters transitioned into wool-body, leather-sleeved athletic wear for students. Key figures like advanced casual wool jackets in the , drawing from menswear for relaxed, cardigan-inspired designs that liberated women from corseted forms. WWII surplus further shaped civilian fashion in the 1940s-1950s, as affordable military jackets like field coats entered wardrobes, fostering a relaxed, utilitarian aesthetic among students and workers.

Contemporary Trends

In the , jacket design has increasingly emphasized , with a notable rise in the use of recycled following heightened environmental awareness post-. This shift reflects broader industry efforts to reduce reliance on virgin petroleum-based materials, as recycled polyester production grew from 11% of total polyester in to 15% by , enabling brands like to launch outerwear lines such as ReNew parkas and puffers made from recycled plastic bottles starting in 2018. Concurrently, influences have blended functionality with casual aesthetics, particularly in the through puffer hybrids that combine insulating down or synthetic fills with flexible, movement-oriented fabrics for versatile urban wear. Technological advancements have further transformed jackets, building on established waterproof linings like , which gained widespread adoption from the late 1990s onward for its breathable, durable membrane in outdoor and everyday apparel. In the , smart fabrics integrating heating elements have emerged, with innovations such as AI-enabled electronic textiles that adjust warmth dynamically and solar-powered materials capable of heating up to 30°C under sunlight, enhancing comfort in variable climates without bulky layers. Global fashion influences have driven stylistic evolutions, including the streetwear boom of oversized bomber jackets since 2015, popularized by brands like through reversible and embroidered designs that merged military heritage with urban excess. Additionally, gender-neutral designs have challenged traditional menswear norms in the , featuring silhouettes like relaxed blazers and oversized coats in neutral palettes to promote inclusivity across body types and identities. As of , eco-friendly jackets have seen significant growth in sales in the outerwear market, driven by consumer demand for sustainable options amid concerns, while vegan alternatives continue rapid expansion with a projected of approximately 11.5% through 2032.

Types of Jackets

Formal Jackets

Formal jackets are tailored outer garments designed for , ceremonial, or occasions, characterized by structured silhouettes that enhance the wearer's and convey . These jackets prioritize in fit and construction to achieve a polished appearance, often featuring notched or peaked lapels, fitted waists, and balanced proportions. Unlike more relaxed styles, formal jackets emphasize symmetry and elegance, making them staples in wardrobes for events ranging from boardrooms to black-tie galas. The , a versatile formal jacket with nautical , originated in 1837 when the captain of HMS Blazer in the British Royal Navy outfitted his crew in navy blue, jackets with distinctive brass buttons to impress during her ship inspection. Typically single- or , blazers feature structured shoulders and are commonly worn in settings, paired with or chinos for a semi-formal look that bridges professional and social attire. The jacket, essential for evening wear, evolved from the dinner jacket introduced in the as a less rigid alternative to full evening dress coats. Distinguished by its peak lapels and or facings on the lapels and edges, it provides a sleek, monochromatic profile ideal for formal dinners and galas, often in black or to absorb light and create a refined sheen. The forms the upper half of a matching trouser ensemble, embodying classic business formality with its design and notch lapels that offer a subtle, professional V-shape to the . variations, which peaked in popularity during the for their bold, authoritative presence, feature overlapping fronts secured by buttons, providing greater coverage and a structured waistline. Key features of formal jackets include construction methods such as fused interlinings, where fabric layers are glued for affordability and sharpness, or canvassed builds, which use sewn interlinings for superior drape and . These jackets are predominantly crafted from or wool fabrics, valued for their smooth texture, durability, and ability to hold a tailored shape without wrinkling excessively. Proper fit is paramount, with shoulders aligning precisely at the natural edge of the wearer's deltoid for a clean line that avoids pulling or excess fabric, ensuring the jacket contours the body without restriction.

Casual Jackets

Casual jackets represent a category of outerwear designed for everyday and settings, prioritizing comfort, , and stylistic versatility over formal . These garments typically feature relaxed silhouettes that allow for ease of and , often with practical closures like zippers or buttons, making them ideal for pairing with t-shirts, hoodies, or casual . Unlike more rigid formal variants, casual jackets emphasize rugged materials and simple aesthetics suited to non-professional contexts. The jacket, a staple of casual attire, originated in the 1880s when introduced the Triple Pleat Blouse, a durable piece crafted from indigo-dyed with copper rivets reinforcing the pockets to withstand heavy use by laborers. This design addressed the need for robust clothing during the American industrial expansion, evolving into variations such as the trucker jacket in the 1950s, which adopted a boxier fit with flap pockets for a more modern, utilitarian look. Contemporary iterations include cropped styles that shorten the hemline for a tailored yet relaxed appearance, enhancing their adaptability in ensembles. Bomber jackets, another iconic casual option, trace their roots to with the U.S. Air Corps' adoption of the A-2 , a leather garment featuring ribbed knit cuffs and waistband to seal out cold air during high-altitude missions. Developed for aviators, the A-2's brief military origins contributed to its postwar popularity as surplus gear transitioned into civilian fashion. Modern versions often use lightweight fabrics, such as in the MA-1 model introduced around , offering and a sleeker profile while retaining the signature cropped length and elasticated hems for versatile layering. Varsity jackets emerged in the as part of U.S. letterman traditions, featuring a body for warmth paired with sleeves for durability and chenille patches to display athletic achievements. This design, initially worn by athletes at institutions like Harvard, symbolized school pride and transitioned into broader by the mid-20th century. Key elements like snap-button fronts and striped ribbing at the cuffs and hem provide a sporty, relaxed fit that supports easy wear over casual basics. Overall, casual jackets share common traits such as forgiving cuts that accommodate various body types and activities, along with closures that facilitate quick on-and-off use. Their emphasis on layering potential—such as draping over graphic tees—underscores their role in building cohesive, low-maintenance outfits for daily life.

Specialized and Protective Jackets

Specialized and protective jackets are engineered primarily for utility in demanding environments, offering enhanced , weather resistance, and features tailored to specific activities or professions. These garments prioritize practical elements such as reinforced seams, adjustable fittings, and specialized materials over aesthetic appeal, evolving from necessities to adaptations for outdoor pursuits and occupational hazards. The , a knee-length protective overcoat often associated with jacket categories for its functional design, emerged as a quintessential protective outerwear during (1914–1918), popularized by British firms such as and , who adapted their earlier raincoats—patented by in 1879—for officers facing conditions. This style incorporates a storm flap for water diversion, epaulets for rank insignia, and a belted for a secure fit, providing and mobility in rainy, muddy terrains. The field jacket, exemplified by the U.S. military's M-65 model introduced in the , serves as versatile protection for field operations and has been widely adapted for civilian and outdoor activities. Crafted from sateen or nylon-cotton blends, it features a waist for adjustable fit, multiple cargo pockets for gear storage, and a concealed for weather shielding, ensuring functionality across varied climates. Parkas trace their origins to pre-20th-century designs, where hooded fur garments like the , made from caribou or seal skins, provided essential insulation against extremes. Modern iterations, such as the fishtail parka developed in the 1950s during the for U.S. troops, incorporate synthetic fills like batting for lightweight warmth and a fishtail hem for coverage, enhancing mobility in cold, wet conditions. Common features across these jackets include multi-layered waterproofing via treated fabrics or membranes to repel moisture, and insulation such as synthetic fills or batting to trap body without restricting movement. In occupational settings, adapted versions like chef's white jackets use designs and long sleeves to against spills, , and stains in high-temperature kitchens. Similarly, lab coats function as protective jackets with knit cuffs and reinforced pockets to guard against chemical splashes and contaminants in scientific environments.

Materials and Construction

Fabrics and Materials

Jackets utilize a variety of natural fibers prized for their thermal regulation, breathability, and comfort in diverse climates. , particularly , excels in warmth due to its ability to trap air while wicking moisture away from the body, making it ideal for insulating layers in cold weather. , a woven wool fabric with a textured surface, provides exceptional and to wear, suitable for rugged outdoor jackets. Cotton variants, such as heavy , offer sturdy, abrasion-resistant construction for chore jackets, with weights up to 16.5 ounces per square yard ensuring longevity in demanding conditions. , a robust cotton weave, delivers strength and a characteristic fade over time, commonly featured in casual denim jackets for everyday versatility. Synthetic materials enhance jackets' performance in wet or harsh environments, prioritizing water resistance and lightweight durability. Nylon and fabrics repel water effectively, often employed in bomber jackets for their quick-drying properties and ability to maintain shape under stress. A seminal innovation, —a breathable yet waterproof expanded (ePTFE) membrane—was invented in 1969 by Bob Gore, revolutionizing outerwear by allowing vapor escape while blocking liquid penetration. Leather and its alternatives provide protective and stylish options, particularly for high-impact uses. , processed through chrome tanning to achieve flexibility and tensile strength, forms the basis of biker jackets, offering abrasion resistance during motorcycle travel. Vegan substitutes like polyurethane (PU) leather, which mimics 's texture without animal sourcing, rose in popularity during the 2010s amid growing ethical demands. Sustainability has driven material innovations, focusing on reduced environmental footprints through and ethical sourcing. In the , recycled plastics—such as discarded fishing nets transformed into —are integrated into parkas, helping mitigate while maintaining water-resistant performance. , verified by the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) for pesticide-free cultivation and fair labor, supports eco-conscious jacket production with comparable durability to conventional cotton.

Design and Construction Elements

Jackets are constructed using various techniques that determine their structure, durability, and drape, with full canvassing representing the traditional method where a layer of or synthetic is sewn between the outer fabric and lining from shoulder to hem, providing natural shape and breathability through floating stitches. Half-canvassed construction extends the only to the chest area, combining sewn above with fused elements below for a balance of tradition and affordability in modern tailoring. Fused construction, prevalent in mass-produced jackets since the mid-20th century, bonds the to the using , enabling faster production but risking over time. Pattern development begins with patterns, standardized templates that serve as the base shape for jacket components like the body, sleeves, and collars, which are then customized through alterations to achieve fits such as slim for a tapered , regular for standard proportions, or athletic for broader shoulders and narrower waists. Shoulder variations, from structured pads in formal jackets to minimal or absent in casual styles, influence the overall and are adjusted during fitting to align with . Key design elements include collar styles, where the notch collar features a V-shaped cut at the junction for versatility in business attire, the peak collar points upward for a formal, broadening effect, and the stand collar rises upright without lapels for streamlined, casual applications. Pocket types encompass flap pockets, which include a covering flap for protection and style on outerwear, and welt pockets, characterized by reinforced slits for a sleek, tailored appearance often seen on suit jackets. Linings, typically or for smooth wear and ease of movement, can incorporate insulated layers like for warmth in cold-weather jackets, integrating briefly with outer fabrics for cohesion. The manufacturing of jackets evolved significantly post-1850s with the advent of machines, patented by in 1846 and commercialized by , shifting from labor-intensive hand-stitching—common in until then—to mechanized assembly lines that accelerated production and enabled markets. By 2025, ethical labor considerations in global supply chains emphasize transparency, fair wages, and audits to combat forced labor and poor conditions in apparel factories, particularly in regions like and .

Cultural and Social Significance

Role in Fashion and Society

Jackets have long served as markers of class and professional identity, reflecting societal hierarchies through their design and materials. In the , tailored coats emerged as symbols of affluent middle-class Victorian respectability, worn by gentlemen to convey status and propriety in urban and professional settings. Conversely, the chore coat, originating in late 19th-century as the "bleu de travail," was crafted from durable for laborers, farmers, and factory workers, featuring practical elements like large pockets and reinforced cuffs to withstand demanding manual labor. These utilitarian jackets underscored the divide between tailoring and working-class functionality, embedding economic roles into everyday attire. Gender dynamics in jacket fashion have evolved significantly, transitioning from predominantly male garments before the to more inclusive designs in contemporary society. Prior to the , jackets were largely associated with men's wardrobes, with women's adoption of masculine styles beginning tentatively in the late among "" who paired plain jackets with skirts to challenge traditional femininity. By the , women embraced sporty jackets like the Mackinaw for casual wear, marking a broader shift toward in outerwear. The amplified this through women's power suits, featuring padded-shoulder jackets by designers like and , which symbolized professional empowerment and equality in corporate environments. In the , jackets with inclusive sizing have become mainstream, promoting gender-neutral expression and accessibility across body types. Jackets have also played pivotal roles in social movements, embodying resistance and advocacy. In the , patched and embroidered jackets became icons of protest, serving as canvases for political messages against the and societal norms, with 's rugged appeal reinforcing identity. Post-2010, initiatives have spotlighted jackets made from recycled or organic materials, driven by activists and brands advocating for ethical production to counter fast fashion's environmental toll, fostering consumer awareness of labor and ecological impacts. Economically, the global coats and jackets market was valued at over US$110 billion in 2024, fueled by tensions between fast fashion's rapid production cycles—which prioritize affordability and volume—and ethical brands emphasizing durability and sustainability. This growth highlights jackets' societal influence, balancing mass-market accessibility with demands for responsible consumption.

Military and Uniform Applications

In the 18th century, military jackets evolved into standardized regimental coats, particularly the iconic red coats worn by British infantry to promote unit cohesion and visibility on the battlefield. These woolen garments, often featuring elaborate facings and lace to denote regiments, were designed for durability in harsh conditions and became synonymous with British military prowess during conflicts like the American Revolutionary War. By the 19th century, officers' uniforms shifted toward frock coats, which replaced earlier tight-fitting styles with looser, knee-length designs made from wool or kersey cloth for improved mobility and weather resistance during campaigns such as the Napoleonic Wars. These single- or double-breasted coats, typically dark blue for U.S. Army officers or green for British, included tailored elements like epaulettes and frogging to signify rank while maintaining functionality in field service. The brought significant innovations in jackets tailored for and versatility. The A-2 flight jacket, introduced in 1931 by the U.S. Army Air Corps, was crafted from goatskin leather with a knit and cuffs to provide warmth and protection against high-altitude cold for pilots, marking a shift toward specialized protective outerwear. During , the M-1943 field jacket emerged as a layered system of cotton sateen with a removable and liner, allowing soldiers to adapt to varying climates from the European theater to the Pacific through its windproof and water-repellent design. Post-World War II developments emphasized concealment and modularity in jacket designs. patterns proliferated from the 1940s onward, with early U.S. examples like the 1948 "" pattern on reversible jackets evolving into widespread adoption of disruptive prints such as ERDL in the 1960s for , enhancing soldiers' ability to blend into diverse environments. In the , tactical vests have largely supplanted traditional jackets, evolving from WWII flak jackets into modular systems with webbing for customizable attachments like pouches and armor plates, prioritizing load-bearing over full coverage for modern infantry operations. NATO specifications for military uniforms mandate high durability in jackets through requirements for tear-resistant fabrics such as ripstop nylon and flame-retardant treatments to withstand abrasion, extreme temperatures, and combat stresses across allied forces. Following , surplus military jackets from the and , including and styles, were repurposed into civilian , influencing postwar collegiate and trends due to their rugged appeal and availability through government auctions.

Representation in Popular Culture

In , jackets have often served as visual shorthand for character archetypes and cultural moods. Marlon Brando's black in the 1953 film The Wild One epitomized the brooding biker rebel, sparking widespread interest in motorcycle culture and popularizing leather jackets as symbols of youthful defiance among disaffected youth. Similarly, Harrison Ford's rugged brown , paired with a , in the 1981 defined Indiana Jones as an intrepid archaeologist-explorer, blending early 20th-century utility with timeless heroism and influencing adventure-wear trends for decades. Music subcultures have similarly elevated jackets as badges of identity and attitude. In the 1950s, Elvis Presley's full-leather ensembles during performances, including jackets that accentuated his dynamic stage presence, helped cement rock 'n' roll as a visceral, edgy style that challenged post-war conformity. By the , the movement embraced DIY customization, with adherents sewing handmade patches—often featuring anarchist slogans, band logos, or art—onto or jackets to embody the subculture's raw, anti-commercial ethos of self-expression and rebellion. In the 1990s, artists adopted oversized bomber jackets as staples of , signifying toughness, urban resilience, and cultural pride while bridging origins with contemporary in videos and performances. Sports icons have further embedded jackets in popular imagery, particularly through styles that denote achievement and camaraderie. Michael Jordan's frequent wear of varsity jackets during the NBA era transformed them into emblems of elite athleticism and team loyalty, inspiring fan apparel that merged school-spirit traditions with professional stardom. In the 2020s, TikTok influencers have spotlighted sustainable parkas from ethical brands like Noize, promoting them as versatile, eco-conscious outerwear that aligns with climate-aware fashion while showcasing layering techniques for everyday urban life. Jackets also carry broader symbolic weight in media and marketing, often marking rebellion or aspiration. During the 1960s clashes between in , rockers' black leather jackets stood as potent symbols of and anti-authority defiance, contrasting sharply with the mods' tailored suits and amplifying rivalries in newsreels and films. In advertisements, jackets have been positioned as status markers; for instance, the Members Only brand marketed its nylon jackets as exclusive "members-only" access to upscale style, using endorsements and exclusivity slogans to evoke amid economic optimism.