I don’t wear a suit everyday. I haven’t even been wearing a sport coat every day, either. My world, and that in which I live, has become increasingly casual. But, as we know, casual doesn’t have to mean a mess. I still dress deliberately.
One of the more useful wardrobe pieces to see near constant use, is the safari or field jacket. I’m down a number of pockets when not wearing suits and sports coats and really tailored clothing doesn’t allow for a bunch of kit to be stashed away anyway. The jacket solves that problem with its wealth of bellows pockets. I’m saving up to get a luxury custom-made suede version from a wonderful looking company called Stòffa. In fact, their idea of casual suits me to a t.
In the meantime, I make do with a older version from J. Peterman and a newer (and far less expensive) find from outdoors outfitters, Cabela’s!
The trick is to avoid the temptation to go full-on Red Buttons in “Hatari” and avoid cargo trousers. I pair my jackets with tailored trousers or white/off-white linen-cotton jeans. Desert boots work well as do suede driving shoes and loafers. I will wear a t-shirt or polo shirt under the jacket if it’s very warm out. Otherwise a long-sleeve popover or what-have-you maintains that semi-professional look. Chambray looks like it was invented for the purpose.
What carries you through your urban adventures during your more casual days?
Which color of suede are you leaning towards?
I’m saving up to commission a suede field jacket this fall. I’m leaning towards dark brown for versatility, but the sand is also very appealing.
Living in the northern parts of the world it’s probably not as useable or practical, but still..
Hi JB! I lean towards sage colors. But, that said, dark brown in very versatile, as you say. But the sand….. the sand is incredibly subtle and elegant. That’s the way I’ll go. Perhaps even in the perforated version to wear in spring. Think of the trousers you will be wearing with the jacket, that may help skew your decision.
Agreed. I might just go with sand too, as I’m not sure I’d dare to wear suede if it’s too cloudy. Don’t want to pull a Seinfeld ?
Dearest Chris,
My husband still treasures his sand colored bomber jacket in pig suede leather.
Love this more casual style.
Sincerely,
Mariette
Chris,
As Cabela’s was sold out of the tall in sand and olive, I ordered one from MidwayUSA in olive. Looks great and has outstanding reviews. Priced right at $70.
Should arrive next week.
Hope the summer is going well for you and the family!
Greg, you will love it! I think I may have it waterproofed. Still on the fence about that, though.
C
How would you go about that process of waterproofing? Is it a spray?
How will that effect it as it is washed?
Retirement is a lot more casual but digging it!
The dry cleaners do it. Not sure if it’s a spray. It lasts awhile, though.
I’m also looking at Stoffa for a suede jacket. Are you going to a trunk show soon?
Hi Matt, unfortunately, it turns out that we need a new roof. There goes the budget!