The Woolen Coat Guide
Once the reserve of the British navy, the woolen coat has been known by a host of names through its illustrious history.
Originally coined the Pea Coat, which was derived from Dutch terminology, the style was kept for US and British sailors who loved the style for its heavy duty wool; making it perfect for fending off some of the harshest sea fairing weather.
The Pea Coat was a huge staple piece for any sailor, resulting in styles that were specially adapted to suit specific roles on the ship.
The most prominent adaptation was the Reefer- a cropped style of the double breasted Pea Coat, the Reefer had the same slim fit, but was cut a lot short and flared at the hips to allow ease of movement for those climbing the ships rigging. With two inner and two outer pockets for storing useful tools, the Reefer was made of the same thick wool material, shielding the wearer from harsh winds and sea spray.
Making their way through history, both the Pea Coat and the Reefer have found their way into the modern wardrobe; bringing with them an air of impeccably honed style and heritage.
Gloverall Big Button Reefer Jacket
One of our most traditional styles, this Gloverall Pea Cot has the sought after classic feel of originality. Made in England, it's got a patriotic element too, making it a homage to a bygone era of British production for British sailors. Finished in a heavy weight wool, it's even got buttons embossed with an anchor for a true heritage look.
Superdry Commodity Dark Navy Slim Pea Coat
Carrying on with a sea fairing inspired look, the Superdry Commodity shows the typical features of a classic Reefer, with a cropped body and slightly flared fit on the hip for ease of movement. A double breasted fastening finishes off this jackets heritage inspired look, whilst a high collar and dual front slant pockets are the perfect representation of this styles past.
Adding a typically Diesel twist to a tried and tested style, this woolen coat features touches such as leather shoulder lapels and an extra slim fit with narrow buttoning. Giving a more fashion forward silhouette, this Diesel woolen coat still manages to retain a few original Pea Coat features, such as slanted front pockets.
Scotch & Soda Slim Fitted Wool Jacket
A dressy version of the classic Reefer with its smart grey colour, this Scotch and Soda woolen is well tailored with a cropped body giving it a distinctive look. Flapped pockets give it a formal appeal, whilst the smaller buttons on the front set this style aside from the rest.
Hugo Boss Bergmar Wool Coat at oxygenclothing.co.uk
From one of the biggest design houses on the continent, this Hugo Boss woolen jacket has got all the features that a Reefer should have. A cropped body, with a hard wearing navy woolen outer gives a traditional aesthetic, whilst a quilted lining provides even more warmth to a style that is already perfect for retaining heat. A classic double breasted style is reinforced with popper fastened slant pockets, making this jacket perfect for keeping warm.
Ryan J Gray
