London: Nearly 90 years after its creation, the Harrington jacket continues to influence fashion. From classic icons like James Dean to contemporary stars like Timothy Chalamet, its versatility and vintage appeal showcase its relevance in today’s wardrobes, reflecting a blend of nostalgia and modern styling.
The Harrington jacket, a timeless piece of fashion first introduced by Baracuta in 1937, remains a beloved garment among enthusiasts nearly 90 years after its debut. This iconic jacket, known for its buttoned collar, elasticated cuffs, flap-style pockets, and distinctive tartan check lining, is celebrated for encapsulating the quintessential British aesthetic alongside the Barber jacket, another staple of classic style.
The term ‘Harrington jacket’ gained popularity due to actor Ryan O’Neal, who famously wore the G9 model in his role as Rodney Harrington in the American drama series “Peyton Place,” which aired from 1964 to 1969. However, the Harrington jacket’s legacy extends beyond O’Neal. The striking red variant worn by James Dean, though a McGregor Drizzler model rather than Baracuta’s G9, has become emblematic within fashion history. Steve McQueen, often dubbed the ‘King of Cool’, also donned the G9 in the film “The Thomas Crown Affair.” Notably, the Harrington jacket is not limited to male figures; actress Drew Barrymore also made a statement by wearing one to a premiere.
Currently, the Harrington jacket is embraced by modern celebrities who continue to draw inspiration from its rich heritage. Timothy Chalamet exemplified this trend by pairing a sleek grey Harrington with straight-fit denim in December, showcasing the jacket’s versatility. Aliocha Schneider, an actor and musician, was spotted at a recent Jacquemus show wearing a Harrington jacket that highlighted an urban, minimalist aesthetic. Ella Emhoff, stepdaughter of Vice President Kamala Harris and a model in her own right, presented a laid-back interpretation, styling the jacket as a work outfit complemented by denim featuring pronounced stitching and a baseball cap.
Fashion runways also reflect the enduring appeal of the Harrington jacket, as designers explore innovative variations. Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons recently introduced a red Harrington reminiscent of James Dean’s style, paired with formal suit trousers. Additionally, System’s latest collections feature Harringtons crafted from leather and embellished with studs. This trend indicates that the jacket is more than a passing trend, as it continues to seamlessly blend into diverse fashion expressions.
The ongoing evolution of the Harrington jacket highlights its role within contemporary celebrity wardrobes, as stars channel vintage aesthetics from compelling fashion eras. As the influence of vintage fashion persists in shaping modern celebrity style, the work of fashion historians becomes pivotal in curating these timeless looks, ensuring the Harrington and similar pieces remain fusions of nostalgia and modern styling.
Source: Noah Wire Services
