French talisman of men's clothing, the work jacket was born in the 18th century to dress the Industrial Revolution. Particularly adapted to the needs of manual workers, it has combined infallible robustness, great versatility and indisputable elegance for more than two centuries. Recognizable by its signet collar, its multiple patch pockets and its tight fabric, it is an absolute reference in the field of workwear.
At Hast, we have been working on this piece since 2019 , respecting its centuries-old heritage while adapting its legend to contemporary requirements. A renewed effort as part of our spring-summer collection with the edition of new work jackets, to (re)discover in this article.
Initially designed for workers and craftsmen, the work jacket has become, over time, an essential element of the male wardrobe . To be convinced of this, one only has to look at the fate of the famous "blue boiler suit" (or work blue), a protective outerwear that has gone down in history in the form of a jacket with high stylistic potential .
After the shirt , it is to this monument of French clothing heritage that we have woven laurels, passionately integrating it into our collections season after season.
A model of comfort, style and durability, the work jacket is certainly one of the fundamentals of our wardrobe , perfected year after year with transparency, requirement and honesty.
Recently, two new references have taken their place alongside them on our racks : a cotton-linen model of summery elegance and a daring double-breasted version, summoning laborious origins and sartorial pretensions. Quite a program.
Our cotton-linen work jackets
New for the spring-summer 2024 season, these work jackets in 61% cotton and 39% linen are inspired by a French model from the 50s , not far from the painter's jacket. Combined with a dry and nervous fabric of 250 gr/m2, their generous collar and side slits make them references of great lightness and subtle refinement.
There are three variations to suit all tastes:
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A bright mottled coral that will go perfectly with your summer outfits, like light trousers and a mixed jersey t-shirt . Of course, a casual shirt would also do the trick.
- A deep green that will wonderfully dress up your more formal looks; why not double-pleated pants , a light shirt and a striped tie ?
- A navy blue of absolute versatility, perfect as a workwear jacket or as a substitute for a blazer . Accompanied by a t-shirt and chinos , you are sure to win the jackpot.
Straight cut, two flap pockets on the front, a notched lapel collar that can also be buttoned all the way up: everything has been designed to serve workwear aficionados as well as lovers of soft tailoring.
Our cotton-linen double-breasted work jackets
Initially designed for workers and craftsmen, the work jacket has made a place for itself in the sun among clothing lovers. Among them, our stylist Sébastien is not to be outdone, and it is from a vintage piece from his personal collection that he imagined the lightweight jackets that we see here.
Halfway between overalls and suits, these ensembles represent a refreshing balancing act between the world of work and the sartorial universe. As for the jackets, the codes of utilitarian clothing coexist with those of ceremonial clothing, which offers a result that is as successful as it is unexpected. A hybrid that works as a matter of course, thanks to the rigor of their making and their sense of proportions.
On the one hand, their straight cut, their unstructured construction, their patch pockets and their armor bear witness to a working-class heritage. On the other, their unmistakable tailored collar and their crossed button placket ostentatiously evoke the canons of the suit. Two origins that offer these jackets infinite potential, from basic workwear to formal distinction. We submit two of them to your good taste:
- a beige model dressed in a textured weave in 58% cotton and 42% linen , woven in a herringbone pattern. Combining the properties of these two well-known natural fibers, it offers a dry and vibrant hand, both dense and surprisingly light.
- A navy blue reference worked in a 100% cotton canvas with a silky and velvety appearance. Softer and much less textured, this mid-season jacket is also more sober, which will delight supporters of discreet and minimalist elegance.
Two strong and original pieces, to wear with the matching pants (or not) with three buttoning modes to choose from. For the accessories , we let you manage.
Caring for our new work jackets
To preserve the quality and durability of your work jacket, it is essential to follow the cleaning instructions mentioned on the inside label. In this case, we strongly recommend dry cleaning at the dry cleaners when necessary. Somewhat expensive, it remains the best way to take care of your precious item over the long term.
If you prefer, hand washing is also an option, as long as you avoid twisting it when cleaning to avoid damaging the fibres. Then let your jacket air dry on a wide-shouldered wooden hanger.
When ironing, it is essential to use the appropriate program and a damp cloth.
The final word
A sacred monster of French clothing heritage, the work jacket has entered the pantheon of legendary clothing. Capitalizing on our expertise in shirtmaking, we interpreted it in 2019, modernizing this icon while respecting its heritage.
This season, two new models have joined their ranks to complete this timeless, versatile and personality-filled range. Straight or double-breasted, smooth or textured, in neutral or more daring tones, our new work jackets put their adaptability at the service of all your desires.
A concentrate of elegance, versatility and authenticity, thought out as always with accuracy and honesty. It's your turn.