In menswear, countless sartorial inspirations have come directly from the military's rich history. And when the temperature starts to dip, we see that evident in the ubiquitous presence of trench coats and peacoats. Of course, these classic styles never get old. But every once in a while, there's proof that the wheel can be reinvented to striking results.
Case in point: This denim peacoat by Mister Freedom, a label that specializes in vintage-inspired designs, and available at J.Crew in exchange for $590. This handsome jacket is a "faithfully reproduced" denim version of a merchant Navy sailor's jacket from back in 1910, and "finished with historically-accurate details such as chain-stitched embroidery." Even the Japanese "'sc301 okinawa' denim - a dark indigo selvedge that's woven on old-school shuttle looms" - is just as vintage and authentic, making this jacket a perfect amalgam of traditional and modern, east and west, utility and total fashion statement - without losing anything in-between.
A jacket like this will blast you into the style stratosphere and set you far apart from all the other blokes hittin' the streets with their alright, but ho-hum gear. Anyone who beholds you in this wondrous jacket will have a hard time hiding their admiration, and women especially will be drawn to its magical powers, allowing you to personally benefit from its charms. This is a kind of jacket you wish you never have to take off, so try hanging out in places where there's a constant chill (except, perhaps, a meat locker) so you have every excuse not to take it off.
I understand that $590 can be a chunk of change. But do consider that this is a collector's item that will offer you pure wearing enjoyment and the admiration of both men and women, forever. In fact, come every fall, you'd be so psyched to get yet another chance to unleash your stilo, when all the other fellas are busy just trying to get by. Now that's what I call a healthy ROI.
