Mens smoking jackets –Modern twist to the 19th century staple

When it comes to menswear, right selection of clothes can make a world of difference to their overall look and appearance. Over the period of time, details have changed, however the big ideas remain the same just like those which prevailed eons ago. For example, the shawl collared mens smoking jackets,a relaxed yet fancy piece of tailoring first came to market in 1850s. Although trend was highly popular eons ago, it has again hit the market. These jackets have always been one of the most sought-after garments among those who smoke cigar, pipe or cigarette.

Let’s start with a glance into the past –According to modern day fashion designers; smoking jacket refers to a tradition which is based on what a man would don when he wants to relax and rest. Just imagine a European gentleman who prefers to smoke after dinner. He has traded his suit jacket for a smoking piece whose sole function was to act as shield for clothes to prevent smell of pipe or cigar.  However, as the time passed by, and by 1860s, some men began wearing this garment as formal evening wear after getting inspired by the audaciousness of the Prince of Wales, Edward VII. The Prince hired Savile Row tailor Henry Poole &Co. for making a blue silk smoking jacket which he can wear for attending dinners at the country estate, Sandringham. 

It was his influence which brought dramatic change in the meaning of formal wear as it was no longer limited to tails and a jacket. Still the only one who can wear smoking jacket along with slippers to a party was the host. However that shift ultimately ushered in the contemporary, tuxedo jackets free from tails, which, to the present day, shares a general silhouette with this jacket, even though there is more leeway for latter as its material is more elaborate and cut can be relaxed.

As you as you think of these jackets, images of manly party hosts from Hugh Hefner to Jay Gatsby conjures up. However, the only function was not to convey top-dog status. It is more about familiarity and authority. There are several fashion designers and other professionals who believe that these jackets can be much more than a garment to protect clothes from smoke and ashes of cigar and pipe. While you can put your guests to ease, it allows you to be not so formal.

In the present era, mens smoking jackets are not restricted to hosting online. you can wear this piece of garment even if you are attending a cocktail party, specifically when it is time for holidays. Fall pieces such as Belgian based designer Dries Van Noten’s shawl-collared, boxy jackets in humble wool cotton blends make for a perfect pick for occasion similar to this. If you feel that jacket is much like a commitment, you can easily hint the look by choosing the right combination of classic smoking accessories – a blazer and chinos – with slippers or printed silk scarf.

If you are craving for that leisurely stylish as well as classic look from a printed silk shirt then just get going. As a matter of fact, modern day designers who have expertise in making such jackets have merged them with trousers and pajama top (although there is no historical connection between pajamas and smoking jackets – only the unwinding and relaxation factor). These jackets are now available in the market that too in a range of colors, patterns and designs. You can pick the best as per your pocket and preference.

There is no dearth of online shops from where you can place order for mens smoking jackets. Duke and Digham is one of the established and renowned online shops for placing an order for smoking jacket. We have a vast collection of smoking jackets which is designed taking into consideration the needs of modern day men. Choose from stylish, elegant and contemporary collection of smoking jackets.