Cordings of Piccadilly offer a superb selection of men's and womenswear, usually with a rural British feel which makes them perfect for stylish wear in town and country. I'm lucky to have a couple of their classic pieces - their covert coat and rubberised cotton mackintosh have been around for decades and are all the better for that. I've now added to that collection the Walker jacket, made by Grenfell.
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| Walking in Cordings of Piccadilly Grenfell walker jacket |
The Walker jacket appeared in the fifties (it was later worn by David Attenborough on his visit to the Rawandan gorillas, see below). As shown by their label in the vintage example below, Cordings have sold the Grenfell Walker for many years.
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| Vintage Cordings of Piccadilly x Grenfell Walker. Other examples had zip breast pockets (as in the modern version) |
The Walker has been slightly redesigned for modern use and adopted by many who appreciate its classic shape. Grenfell originally designed for outdoor use, expedition and adventure wear and this gives the Walker a stylish practicality. I wear it around town and on the Cumbrian fells where, although gorillas are rarely seen, the jacket's reserved hue, weather resistance, quiet cotton cloth, hideaway hood and comfort make it an ideal alternative to sweaty and brightly coloured modern outdoorwear. It's rapidly become a favourite for casual wear.
See Cordings of Piccadilly Grenfell Walker jacket. A few readers have mentioned to me that sizing is sometimes an issue with Grenfell clothing. I have a theory (completely untutored) that the jackets are made with fairly high armholes which, while giving a nicely fitted look, can allow less room under arms and over chest for layers. I am a 38" chest and wear the Walker of that size. This gives a fit I might look for in a blazer of that size; I can wear a light sweater underneath without loss of mobility. If you want room for bulky layers I'd suggest you go up a size, but try one or discuss with Cordings' very helpful staff first.
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| David Attenborough in Rwanda wearing his Grenfell Walker |
This is an unsponsored post. A Cordings of Piccadilly Walker jacket was provided for review. All views are mine alone.
