14.07.10

Truely Tartan

J.W. Anderson's Blanket Coat

While they can currently be spotted in parks, laden with scotch eggs, pork pies and other picnic favourites, classic woollen blankets are set to enter the fashionable man’s wardrobe this season in the shape of a comforting coat. London based designer Jonathan Anderson featured blanket coats on the runway at LFW back in February and may of us have desperately wanted one ever since. Worn with tight fitting tailored trousers, black heavy soled combat boots featuring contrasting laces, mohair knit jumpers and leather dog collar necklaces, the blanket’s classic gingham design reminded of punk’s golden time, more Vivienne & Malcolm than Fortnum & Mason.

Jonny Rotten’s sartorial choices can also be traced in the heavy use of metal rivets, studs and deconstructed shirts adorned with fabric patches on the shoulders. This look not only references Britain’s sartorial past, it also makes use of its tradition as weavers of soft fabrics known around the world. The fabric used by Anderson was created by specially commissioned Highland craftsmen and produced in the same way this checked fabric has been created for centuries. Using this traditional product marks the return a return to classic quality in menswear while still fitting in with a contemporary wardrobe. The blanket’s iconic gingham print and soft, yet textured feel made it one of Edward VII’, the Duke of Windsor who chose love over status, favourites. In an auction held two years ago in Paris selling the entity of his wardrobe, jumpers, trousers and hats made of checked fabric woven in Britain featured heavily.

Instead of merely sticking to the woollen blanket’s fabric and design, Anderson also features it’s tassels, adorning the coats’ hemline. This only adds to the overall feeling of the wearer being wrapped into a comfortable blanket ready to face icy temperatures and stormy winds.

J.W. Andersons blanket coat is available to buy, here.

Posted by Felix Bischof

Tags: JW Anderson Coats