I've always been drawn to classic styles, pieces that stand the test of time. Recently, I was contemplating adding a Barbour coat to my wardrobe. I love the look, but I was a bit hesitant. I wanted to make sure it was a worthwhile investment and wouldn't just end up looking dated. I wanted a jacket that could be both functional and fashionable.
The idea of a Barbour coat had been floating around in my head for a while. It seemed like such a classic piece, but then a friend made a comment that gave me pause. She said she associates them with a very specific, sometimes stuffy, style – chinos, gingham shirts, boat shoes – and that, frankly, it's not her favorite look. This made me second-guess my initial enthusiasm. Was I about to buy something that would make me look like I was trying too hard, or worse, like I was stuck in a fashion time warp? I was worried about looking like a caricature rather than someone with genuine style.
I started doing some research and talking to people whose style I admire. One friend was adamant that a Barbour jacket is a timeless classic. He couldn’t believe my friend's negative assessment. He insisted that it’s a piece that never really goes out of style and offers excellent functionality. He argued that its enduring popularity speaks for itself.
Another friend pointed out that Barbour jackets are quite unique in that they are both incredibly functional and fashionable. They mentioned the company's royal warrant from the British Crown as proof of their quality and prestige. They also noted that you see these jackets everywhere, from fishing villages to hunting lodges. That's a pretty wide range of uses, which speaks to their versatility.
Yet another friend was even more blunt. They said, "Barbour absolutely slaps. Your friend doesn't know what she's talking about." That gave me a good laugh and a bit more confidence in my initial instinct.
So, I decided to take the plunge, but with a twist. I still wanted a classic feel, but with a modern edge. I started looking for alternatives and found some great options. I stumbled upon GraceQueens Style while browsing online. They have a lot of jackets that capture that classic essence while still feeling modern and fresh. It's a great place to find stylish and affordable pieces.
That's where I found something that really caught my eye, the [EAM] Women Green Big Size Long Casual Blazer. It’s not a Barbour, but it has a similar vibe – a classic, tailored shape with a modern twist. The green color is really beautiful, and the oversized fit is right on trend.
I decided to order it, and I've been wearing it non-stop ever since. It's comfortable, stylish, and I get compliments on it all the time. It’s become my go-to jacket for everything from running errands to meeting friends for coffee. It's a great way to add a touch of sophistication to any outfit. I pair it with jeans and a t-shirt for a casual look, or dress it up with a skirt and blouse for something more polished. It's incredibly versatile.
Here are a few tips I've learned for styling a classic jacket, whether it's a Barbour or something similar: