Smoking Jacket – A glance into the history and its modern twist

When it comes to menswear, though there has been change in details, the big ideas have remained the same as those prevailed centuries back. Consider, for example, the shawl-collared smoking jacket, a relaxed however fanciful and attractive piece of tailoring seen back in the 1850s. It has now become extremely popular and has emerged as a key player in the men’s fashion this season. Before you get to know more about these jackets, having a slight understanding of the history is important.

A sneak-peek into the history

The smoking jacket can be described as a tradition that is widely based on what a mam will wear when he is relaxing or in repose, according to modern day stylist and celebrities. Just imagine about a European gentleman kicking back after having a dinner. Donned in the stiff suit jacket for a plush smoking cigar – who’s only intended function was to protect his clothes from the ashes and smell of his pipe.  By the late 1860s, many men started wearing these jackets as a formal evening wear, getting inspired by the audaciousness and style of Edward VII, the Prince of Wales.   Soon, the Prince commissioned Savile Row tailor Henry Poole & Co. for making a blue colored smoking jacket that he could wear at the Sandringham country estate. Although he was breaking with the protocol, however being the son of Queen Victoria, he was able to get away with this.

Because of the influence of the Edward VII, the definition of formal wear was no longer constrained to tails and a jacket. The only person who wore the smoking jacket along with slippers was the host. However that shift ultimately ushered in the contemporary, tuxedo jacket free from tails, although there is no more leeway; its cut can be slightly more relaxed and material more elaborate. 

When it comes to smoking jacket, it conjures up images of manly party hosts from Hugh Hefner to Jay Gatsby. However, its function was beyond conveying the impression of top-dog status.  It is about familiarity and authority.

All this was an era back. Things have changed drastically today. Today, in the modern times, smoking jacket is not restricted to hosting only. It can be worn even if you are attending an evening cocktail party, specifically when the vacations roll round. There are several options of smoking jackets available in the market.  If you think that jacket appears like too much of a commitment, you can hint at its look by combining some of the classic accessories – slippers or a printed silk scarf that you can team up with a blazer and chinos. 

This particular fall, that repose look could also be attained from a printed silk pajama shirt. As a matter of fact, many fashion designers who designed smoking jacket merged them with trousers and pajama tops, despite the fact there is no historical connection with the pajamas and jackets – only the leisurely factor.

If you are planning to invest in a smoking jacket then you will come across a range of variety available in the market. There are several designs, patterns and styles available from which you can choose the one that best suit your personality and style. Also, you will be surprised by the colors in which these jackets are available. All you need to do is make the selection carefully.

There are several manufacturers of smoking jackets that also offer the option to get smoking jacket customized. One such manufacturer and leading company is Duke and Digham. Visit the website where you will find some of the finest collection of smoking jackets. You can either place an order for the one you like or get it customized according to your color, style and pattern preference.

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Created on Nov 22nd 2017 04:07. Viewed 730 times.

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