Who knew farmhand garb could be so desirable? Ever since Miuccia Prada put barn jackets on her SS24 runway, they’ve been at the top of every style-conscious person’s wishlist. Inspired by her take, I set out to find my own. Last weekend, I finally struck gold, picking one up for pennies in a Dulwich charity shop – a vintage Carhartt Detroit jacket with a perfectly worn brown corduroy collar and a black canvas facade faded in all the right places, giving it that coveted, time-worn appeal.
Originally designed for pure function – think hauling hay bales and mucking out stables – the barn jacket (also known as the chore coat or field jacket) became a staple for its durability and warmth. Popularised in mid-century America by brands like Wrangler, Carhartt and Levi’s, it gradually became a staple of classic American style. Barbour launched the Bedale, its version of a barn coat, 40 years ago, bringing a countryside spin to the style in the UK, adding waxed cotton for additional protection.
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Today, the barn jacket has surpassed its utilitarian roots to become a versatile style essential. Luxury versions like The Row’s Frank jacket and Toteme’s Country Jacket bring elevated polish to the look, while Barbour and Ganni’s latest collaboration reimagines the style in leopard print and bold green logos for a modern twist.
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As for mine, I’ve been experimenting with different looks: zipped up over a pleated wool skirt with loafers for a polished look, or layered with breezy wide-leg trousers and a crisp blue shirt for a relaxed take on the trend. Take cue from Mrs P and throw yours over a sheer skirt, fringe or snappy tailoring, the secret to styling the barn jacket is contrast.
Much like leather, denim and wax jackets too, the true brilliance of the barn jacket is that the look can be easily created. If you're searching for a new one, there are lots of inexpensive options and they are also easy to come across when scouring resell sites, charity shops and vintage outlets. The beauty of this trend? It’s both accessible and endlessly adaptable, equally at home in the countryside or on city streets.
Here are the best barn jackets to shop now
Prada Canvas Trucker Jacket
The Row Frank Field Jacket
Toteme Country Jacket
Carhartt WIP Detroit Jacket
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