Belstaff is a storied British brand rooted in nearly a century of history, synonymous with rugged durability and timeless style. Founded in 1924 by Eli Belovitch and his son-in-law Harry Grosberg in Staffordshire, it was the first company to craft waterproof outerwear using waxed cotton. This innovative use of fabric quickly propelled the brand into the spotlight, cementing its reputation for high-quality motorcycle jackets and outdoor wear. Belstaff’s journey over the years reflects not just a commitment to durable fashion but also an unwavering spirit of adventure, appealing to explorers, racers, and anyone seeking resilient yet stylish apparel.

In its formative years, Belstaff focused on waterproofing and functional apparel like capes, leggings, and rucksacks. By the 1930s, it had ventured into motorcycle clothing, developing a unique label characterized by a winged emblem and the letter ‘T,’ symbolizing strength and technological prowess. The brand became synonymous with the motorcycling community, drawing enthusiasts and adventurers alike. The introduction of the Trialmaster jacket, designed specifically for the Scottish Six Days Trial event, firmly established Belstaff as an icon in the world of motorcycling and outdoor exploration.

Despite facing challenges during the textile crisis of the 1990s, which led to factory closures, Belstaff evolved and diversified its product range, balancing between motorcycling heritage and modern fashion. Franco Malenotti’s acquisition in 2004 revitalized the brand, introducing it to a global audience and featuring high-profile celebrities like Kate Moss in its advertisements. In the following years, successive changes in ownership shifted production and creative leadership, yet the brand remained true to its British heritage.

Today, Belstaff continues to evolve under the ownership of Ineos, blending its rich heritage with contemporary trends to cater to a global audience. The brand’s flagship stores in Milan, London, New York, and Tokyo reflect its international appeal, offering a curated selection of outerwear and accessories that merge historical craftsmanship with modern design sensibilities. This commitment to blending the past and present is exemplified in the Trialmaster jacket, which remains a staple for motorcycle enthusiasts and fashion aficionados alike, embodying Belstaff’s enduring spirit of adventure and innovation.

Stunning Belstaff “Topographical” Campaign

How to tell if Belstaff is vintage from the logo

Belstaff is a historic British brand known for its high-quality outerwear, particularly in the realm of motorcycle fashion. Founded in 1924, the brand has undergone various transformations over the decades, all while retaining its core identity rooted in rugged durability and classic style. Their iconic logo has played a significant role in defining this identity, offering clues to the era each garment originates from.

In this guide, we’ll explore the evolution of the Belstaff logo over time. From its earliest iterations to the modern emblem, the brand’s visual identity reflects the changing tastes and technologies of each period. By understanding the key characteristics of each logo, you can more accurately identify the vintage status of your Belstaff gear.

1924 to now Belstaff logo

• The original logo, featuring a circular emblem with a winged motif, encapsulates the brand’s aviation roots.
• A bold ‘T’ symbol stands at the center of the emblem, representing technological innovation and strength.
• The “Belstaff” name appears in an uppercase, serif font, adding to the logo’s timeless and authoritative aesthetic.

2010s to now Belstaff logo

• The modern logo maintains the original winged emblem but is now coupled with a cleaner, sans-serif “Belstaff” text.
• The circular emblem is simplified, retaining the iconic ‘T’ symbol while making it bolder and more prominent.
• Overall, the design feels streamlined and modern, reflecting Belstaff’s contemporary approach while honoring its heritage.

How to tell if Belstaff is vintage from the tags

Belstaff, known for its timeless motorcycle jackets and outdoor wear, has undergone various evolutions in its branding and label designs over the decades. These changes are particularly visible in the tags, which showcase a blend of heritage and modernity. Whether it’s the distinctive logo or the “Genuine Product” branding, each era’s tag offers insights into the craftsmanship and unique identity that Belstaff represents.

Identifying vintage Belstaff tags can be a fascinating journey for collectors and fashion enthusiasts. From the bold “Black Prince” logo to the modern “Made in England” markers, each design echoes a specific chapter in Belstaff’s rich history, reflecting shifts in production, style, and logo evolution.

Need assistance with vintage tags or labels? Upload a picture on our vintage tag identification page, and we’ll help you out!

1980s vintage Belstaff tags

• Tags often include a prominent logo with the phrase “The Original Since 1924.”
• Green “Belstaff” logo is distinctive, usually accompanied by a “Made in UK” or “Made in England” label.
• Some tags feature bold and colorful designs, highlighting individual collections like “Black Prince.”

1990s vintage Belstaff tags

• The iconic “Belstaff International” product branding became more common.
• Tags showcase intricate logos with the recognizable gold winged emblem.
• Focus on high-quality materials, indicating the “Made in England” origin or English design.

2000s vintage Belstaff tags

• Tags retain the classic “Belstaff” logo with variations in color and layout.
• Many tags include “A Genuine Product” to reinforce authenticity.
• Some labels feature bold “Made in Turkey” text, highlighting shifts in manufacturing locations.

2010s vintage Belstaff tags

• Modern tags emphasize a streamlined design with the “Belstaff” logo front and center.
• Labels often incorporate the “England 1924” slogan as a nod to the brand’s heritage.
• Varied materials and colors used in this era, reflecting Belstaff’s adaptation to contemporary trends.