There's a growing interest in vintage work clothes which influences many designers' work. They acknowledge the quality, robustness and sheer practicability of the originals when they base their collections on classic working clothes. I admire the work of designers such as Nigel Cabourn who has used military and exploration clothing as influences in their work.
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| The crew of a Royal Navy launch wearing coastal forces or submariner's jumpers |
This feature first appeared here on the blog in 2011 and is reposted with revisions. I've added links to suppliers of submariner-type heritage jumpers or sweaters below.
It's always interesting to search for the originals of the clothes which influence such designers. Some years ago I found an old Royal Navy submariner's jumper on eBay. When I was in the Royal Naval Reserve we called them called coastal forces jumpers.
It's always interesting to search for the originals of the clothes which influence such designers. Some years ago I found an old Royal Navy submariner's jumper on eBay. When I was in the Royal Naval Reserve we called them called coastal forces jumpers.
They had a role in all branches arms of the Royal Navy, where warm and robust jumpers were needed in the days before fleeces and down gilets. They would be worn under wool serge uniforms or large Duffel coats. Until the fifties most naval vessels had open bridges, which, while essential for good visibility, were perishingly cold on long winter nights' watches and several layers and a good mug of cocoa were essential for survival.
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| Vintage submariner's jumper |
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| Submariners in their jumpers |
As can be seen from the photos below, this jersey still has its original owner's name and service number. It's in excellent condition and is really warm to wear. They were made very slim-fitting, didn't fit around the neck and shoulders well and the shape may not suit all. However, they'll last forever if you can keep moths away. Originals can still be picked up on a certain online auction site.
Reproductions (usually British-made and not always completely true to the original pattern) are available from companies such as North Sea Clothing, Shackleton, Silvermans, Crystal Knitwear and try the new Beacon & Armour who appeared earlier in 2018.
Please mention Grey Fox Blog if you buy from these brands.
Reproductions (usually British-made and not always completely true to the original pattern) are available from companies such as North Sea Clothing, Shackleton, Silvermans, Crystal Knitwear and try the new Beacon & Armour who appeared earlier in 2018.
Please mention Grey Fox Blog if you buy from these brands.
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| Details of my vintage submariner's jumper |
This is a repost of a feature which first appeared on the blog in 2011.
