The iconic patch pocket style that is belted, buttoned and buckled is over a century old and still going strong.
Originally developed from necessity to defeat the heat in southern Africa by the troops of the British empire during the second Boer war between 1899 and 1902.
Cut from cheap affordable cotton drill in a khaki colour, it was adopted across the continent making it a well-known piece of men’s wear, even today.
When the military left the style stayed and became the unofficial uniform for bushmen.
The safari jacket traditionally features bellowed pockets, revere collar, shoulder epaulettes and a belted waist, it’s an extremally functional jacket which is fit for purpose.
The functionality of the jacket became fashionable in the 1930s and was loved by western tourists, they all wanted to look like the pioneering adventure. And this is where you see it being used in film and television as an explorers jacket.
The obsession with the jacket overseas is shown by the fact that the American brand Abercrombie & Fitch’s best-seller in 1939 was the safari jacket.
By the 1950s you are seeing it regularly in film and by the mid-80s it is being styled by the likes of James Bond and Prince Charles.
There was a massive decline in the styles throughout the 1990s and right through to 2010 when it was seen as dated and old school, you would only really see it when watching old films.
But with the recent rise in utility style and the love of functional clothing, it is on the up.
There are some really great interpretations as well as more traditional styles of country or shooting outfits coming out, like the safari jacket for instance.
It’s really worth having a look and seeing what’s out there because it is one of those easy jackets which you can just throw on and will instantly elevate your look.
Let us know what your favourite style is…..
