HERITAGE IN STYLE: EXPLORING THE TIMELESS APPEAL OF HARRINGTON JACKETS

The Harrington jacket, a timeless design dating back to the 1930s, remains a beloved choice among fashion lovers. This lightweight jacket traditionally features a waist-length silhouette, zip front, stand-up collar, dual button flap pockets, and elasticated cuffs and hem ensuring a tailored, snug fit. Typically crafted from fabrics like cotton, polyester, and wool, the Harrington jacket traditionally features a plain outer shell complemented by a checked lining. This enhances its minimalist aesthetic and timeless sophistication. Many brands like us have since put their own spin on the jacket by changing details on the jacket such as adding buttons for zips or changing the style of the pocket. 

The Birth of an Icon

The Harrington jacket traces back to the 1930s in Manchester, a renowned hub of the textile industry during that era. The Manchester-based company Baracuta specialises in producing waterproof fabrics, supplying them to various brands such as Burberry for crafting rainmacs. By 1937, the Miller brothers, pioneers in the field, ventured into creating their own line of garments. Their masterpiece, the 'G9', later known as the 'Harrington', emerged as a solution for golfers seeking both style and functionality on the course. The 'G' in its name signifies its initial purpose as a golf jacket, offering unrestricted movement while shielding wearers from the elements.

Hollywood Glamour

The Harrington jacket gained traction in America during the 1950s when the Miller brothers expanded their operations there, introducing the garment to the American market. Initially embraced by Ivy League college students seeking a distinctive style, and preppy aesthetic. The jacket's popularity increased as it caught the attention of celebrities, including golf lovers like Bing Crosby and Ronald Reagan, who sported the G9 model. Soon, it became a symbol of Hollywood glamour, with iconic figures such as Elvis Presley wearing a beige G9 in the movie "King Creole," and James Dean gracing the cover of Life Magazine in one. These pivotal moments pushed the Harrington jacket into the spotlight, inspiring fans worldwide to get their idols' iconic look.

The Rodney Harrington Effect

The transition from the 'G9' to the 'Harrington' occurred following a significant television moment on the American '60s soap, Peyton Place. Actor Ryan O'Neill, portraying Rodney Harrington, wore the G9 in nearly every episode. Recognizing its association with the character, John Simons, a Baracuta retailer, seized the opportunity in 1966 to promote the jacket as the "Rodney Harrington Jacket." This name was eventually abbreviated to the now "Harrington," marking the birth of the generic term for this iconic jacket.

Musical Milestones

The Harrington jacket maintained its celebrity appeal in America and gained substantial popularity in the UK during the 1960s, particularly among mods, skinheads, and football culture and ever since has had a huge impact on the UK music scene. A memorable moment for the Harrington in the UK music scene was when The Clash wore personalized Baracuta Harringtons in an iconic display at New York Times Square in 1981. Since Elvis Presley's initial G9 feature, a large number of musicians from many eras including Miles Davis, Liam Gallagher, Paul Weller, and Pete Doherty have embraced the Harrington, continuing its influence on the music scene and inspiring fans worldwide to adopt the style. With its extensive celebrity following, the Harrington has rightfully earned its place as one of the most iconic jackets ever designed, assuring to continue its legacy as a timeless fashion staple for celebrities and enthusiasts alike.

The iconic Harrington design has influenced many of our jacket designs and will continue to do so. Explore our selection of Harrington-inspired jackets.