The Evolution of Outerwear

Often considered the final layer in one’s outfit, outerwear plays an essential role in both function and fashion, protecting us from the elements with insulation and waterproof coatings.outerwear As fashion trends and technology evolve, however, so do the garments themselves. The emergence of sustainable, ethical materials and production methods have been transforming outerwear to better reflect the modern lifestyle. In addition to being practical, a stylish coat or jacket can elevate an entire ensemble.

The earliest outer garments were probably fur skins used as a final body wrap.outerwear By the late Paleolithic period (40,000–8,000 b.c.e.), people were sewing garments together using bone needles. The earliest sewn outerwear garment was probably a fur cape designed to fit over the shoulders, as evidenced by wooden “toggle” pieces discovered in European graves of this period, which were positioned to act as front closures for the cape.

Outerwear garments may be made of natural or synthetic materials, with the latter generally being warmer and more insulating.outerwear In general, they are designed with hoods that provide additional warmth and protection from the weather, as well as adjustable cuffs and waistbands. Most outerwear also includes pockets for carrying items such as cell phones, keys and wallets.

During the eighteenth century, rapid fashion changes impacted outerwear styles, and capes gave way to innovative new jacket and coat designs, including the spencer, charmingly adapted from menswear for women’s narrow dresses; long overcoats called pelisses that resembled the neoclassical silhouette of skirted dresses; and boxy, thigh-length jackets known as Inverness or paletot coats. Fur garments with the fur on the outside rather than as lining were also popular at this time.

By the nineteenth century, the frock coat and sack suit jacket replaced the pelisse and cape as the most fashionable outerwear for men. The sack suit jacket was effective as rainwear, and accessories such as muffs and tippets helped to add style and warmth to outerwear worn in inclement weather.

In more recent times, the bomber jacket has been a perennial favorite of many famous celebrities and everyday fashionistas alike. Marlon Brando, James Dean and Ryan Gosling all wore the look, which is not only warm and practical but also very cool. The insulated bomber jacket can be paired with jeans or a sleek, slim dress to create an urban look. In colder climates, a vest can be worn over a sweater instead of a jacket to keep the wearer warm without adding fabric bulk. For days when the temperature is not freezing, but still quite cold, windy or damp, a windbreaker is an excellent alternative. This type of outerwear is usually lightweight, and it can be easily folded into a duffel bag or backpack for easy transport when the need arises. A windbreaker can also be worn over a T-shirt or light shirt, which allows for the warmth of an undergarment without exposing the upper chest to the elements. This type of outerwear can be very effective in high winds and light rain, but it is not intended to withstand heavy precipitation or snow.

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