With an undeniable sense of individuality, Barbour has been one of Britain’s most iconic and cherished producers since their birth in 1894.
The past 120 years have seen the unmissable label introduce innovation after innovation, blending their astute sense of functionality with an edge of direct design that is all their own.
From the nostalgic view and smell of a well-used Barbour waxed jacket hanging up on a coat hook fresh from its latest outing, to the comforting warmth of a classic quilted Barbour coat, the recent movements of Barbour from its original countryside inspired roots to the backs of some of the city's biggest fashion aficionados have resulted in the elegant brand becoming a style phenomenon.
A huge host of styles and designs dissect the Barbour story, each as comprehensive and desirable as the last. With ranges delivering looks to cover every Barbour look, finding the style you’ve been searching for can prove to be a headache, so check out our swift run down of which Barbour range you need to be buying into, and why:
1934 saw Barbour expand into new, exciting markets. They had perfected their wax cotton finishes, which by then had become well versed in beating weather conditions all over the world.
At the time, Barbour was being run by Duncan Barbour; a keen motorcycle enthusiast, Duncan quickly saw how waxed cotton’s weather proof credentials would make a great ally for anyone riding a motor bike.
He set about designing a full suit that would live up to the rigors of life on the bike- from being mud, wind and water resistant, to being fully durable and practical, with a host of pockets and fastening options.
The range-named Barbour International- was an almighty success. Between 1936 and 1977, virtually every British motorcycle team competed wearing a Barbour International outfit, along with recreational riders and one illustriously notable name; the King of Cool, Steve McQueen.
Fast-forward to the modern day, and Barbour International still represents that era of dominance that Barbour held over motorcycle style. With Barbour International jackets featuring the brands golden badge, along with styling that is indicative of the designs that held such high popularity, a Barbour International jacket is perfect for anyone chasing a classic rugged, heritage inspired style. From angled map chest pockets to belt details and neck fastenings, the Barbour International range supplies an unbeatable feel of nostalgic accuracy in a range of finishes.
If you love Barbour for its historic affinity with the Great British outdoors, then the Barbour Lifestyle range was specifically tailored to you. With pieces that pay homage to some of the brands most cherished and historic designs, Barbour Lifestyle provides the idyllic platform for a sense of traditional Barbour nostalgia.
With designs coming from the Barbour archives, Barbour lifestyle reflects the original values of the Barbour brand that ultimately won them three Royal Warrants, by supplying some of the warmest, most durable and reliable clothing available.
Defining Barbour’s recent movements into high fashion, Barbour Heritage lists its self as a range that fuses Barbour’s coveted resistant qualities with unique takes on designs that convey the labels classic style credentials without losing touch with current trends.
Adding a fashion driven spin to Barbour’s range has resulted in a niche collection of sleek outerwear and warming knitwear that makes Barbour Heritage one of the more appealing collections for a fashion conscious generation who have recognized the huge desirability of heritage brands in their modern day styles.
Deservedly named after the first alterations department of Barbour’s South Shields factory, which has run for over 100 years, Barbour Dept. (B) represents the innovative spirit that has always carried Barbour forward throughout the years. Celebrating this infamous departments work in adding bespoke touches to standard issue Barbour pieces, Barbour Dept. (B) pieces go the extra mile with niche touches being added to familiar styles.
