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Work Jacket Codes [ Typical Designs, Their History, Examples of Wearing, and Recommended Models ].

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  • Published: 2021-01-12 Last Updated: 2025-09-10
Work Jacket Codes [ Typical Designs, Their History, Examples of Wearing, and Recommended Models ].

The work jacket is a classic outerwear item with a tough, rugged look. In this issue, we will introduce typical types of work jackets, their history, examples of how they are worn, and recommended models.

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Work jacket

”What”Work

Left: Coverall type / Right: Short blouson type[/caption]

In the modern fashion scene, there are two main types of work jackets: the coverall type, represented by the choir jacket born in 19th century France, and the short blouson type, represented by the Carhartt “Detroit Jacket” born in 20th century America. Various fashion brands, regardless of genre, have taken one of these types as their inspiration. The following is a brief history of the work jacket, focusing on these two types, and introducing their respective characteristics!

History and characteristics of the coverall type work jacketOuterwear that combines an elegant appearance and practicality, as typified by the choir jacket born in 19th century France

The choir jacket is a typical type of coverall type work jacket. This one is said to have been established in 19th century France as field clothing for factories, railroads, and farms. It generally has one or two pockets on the chest and two on the waist, a regular collar, and a button-front opening. Moleskin, cotton twill, denim, and herringbone are the main fabrics used. The term “choir jacket” originated in the U.S. In the mid-20th century, when Carhartt and Dickies were on the rise, French coveralls began to be called choir jackets. In France, it is still often referred to as a work jacket.

The coverall’s practical design and elegant appearance make it a natural fit for casual wear in the modern era. They are also famous because Bill Cunningham, a longtime photographer for The New York Times and the originator of the street snapshot, used to wear them during his lifetime.

Photo: Splash/Afro EXCLUSIVE: The Late Bill Cunningham Photographer riding his bike with his Camera around his neck in Tribeca, NYC, September 2014 Pictured : Bill Cunningham

History and characteristics of the short blouson-type work jacketShort-length outerwear with a rough appearance, as typified by the Detroit jacket, which originated in the United States in the 20th century

The short blouson-type work jacket is believed to have originated in the United States in the 20th . The silhouette is short and boxy, with a corduroy point collar and a zipper front opening. Most designs have a zipper pocket on the left chest and two pockets on the waist. Duck canvas is generally used for the outer fabric, which creates bite and fading as it is worn. In addition, jackets manufactured for colder regions such as Detroit may use a quilt or blanket-like material for the lining to keep the wearer warm.

The Carhartt “Detroit Jacket” is a symbolic model of this type, which was created in the 1950s and quickly spread to automobile factories and construction sites, and in the 1990s it became associated with hip-hop and skate culture and permeated the streets. Today, it has established itself in the fashion industry through collaborations with a variety of partners, from streetwear to designer brands.

Photo: Shutterstock/Afro Lauryn Hill, Oct 25, 1999 : LAURYN HILL ; ALTA VISTA ‘KNOWLEDGE REVOLUTION’ LAUNCH. LAURYN HILL PERFORMS AT THE ALTAVISTA WEB SEARCH PARTY LAUNCH.(Photo by Rex Features/AFLO)[2337].

Here are some examples of work jacket outfits.

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