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We don’t have to get around the problem, because we’ve solved the problem.
Of all the outerwear staples that were designed on our shores, the Harrington is surely one of the best. The short, simple design is loved around the world, has been worn by everyone from Elvis to Bond - and believe it or not - originated in Manchester. Indeed, over 150,000 G9s were manufactured in our factory through much of the mid-century. So, naturally, it had to become an integral part of the Private White VC wardrobe. While other brands have moved abroad for their production, we still make ours in our red brick Victorian factory, to better standards than ever before.
We don’t have to get around the problem, because we’ve solved the problem.
Of all the outerwear staples that were designed on our shores, the Harrington is surely one of the best. The short, simple design is loved around the world, has been worn by everyone from Elvis to Bond - and believe it or not - originated in Manchester. Indeed, over 150,000 G9s were manufactured in our factory through much of the mid-century. So, naturally, it had to become an integral part of the Private White VC wardrobe. While other brands have moved abroad for their production, we still make ours in our red brick Victorian factory, to better standards than ever before.
We use the finest waterproof Ventile® cotton for a start, the very same fabric that’s made our raincoat the industry standard. And we’ve also subtly tweaked and improved our Harrington over the years, to the point where we now produce the ultimate example. For a lightweight, waterproof, casual and effortlessly cool jacket, this is the one.
To understand the Harrington you have to consider it within the context of British style history. Aside from the Savile Row suit, few garments have had such a widespread global impact as this humble design. It started, of course, in Manchester. It was intended, as it is now, as a light, casual jacket that offered plenty of style with its short cut and distinctive collar, as well as rain resistance. It quickly caught on, with James Dean and Elvis Presley favouring it in the ‘50s, and Steve McQueen often wearing one in the ‘60s. The holy trinity of men’s style icons, these men undoubtedly contributed to the Harrington’s success. But fundamentally, it’s the jacket’s design that made it stick.
It’s a simple piece, the Harrington, with its zip front, slanted side pockets and tab collar. Wear it half open a la Dean, or zip it up like the mods of the ‘60s; you’ll look cool either way. This same versatility is a virtue of our own Harrington. But while it’s traditional in style, we’ve moved things on slightly from the jackets you might have seen sixty years ago. First off, we’ve made it from our innovative Ventile® cotton. This is the very same fabric you’ll find with our raincoat.
It’s extraordinarily light yet entirely waterproof, thanks to the thousands of tiny woven threads that swell when wet, blocking any water from getting in. As with our raincoat though, this is a fabric that remains breathable, unlike the rubberised cotton of days gone by. This means we were able to get rid of the rear ‘umbrella’ yoke you’ll find on classic Harringtons - it’s an unnecessary detail that was only there to help the jacket breathe. Like with all of our products, we don’t have to get around the problem, because we’ve solved the problem.
Elsewhere it’s got raglan shoulders for improved comfort and movement over in-set sleeves. This gives it a sporty, relaxed feel that almost hugs you when you put it on. But we’ve smartened up other elements of the jacket. Gone are the G9’s ribbed hem and cuffs, and instead you’ll find a clean, straight hem and shirt sleeve cuff. The former is smarter, giving the style an unbroken silhouette which sits over the hips thanks to a slightly boxy cut.
The shirt sleeve cuff, meanwhile, is a superior design to the lazier ribbed cuff, and means you can actually fold them back in spring and summer. They’re adjustable too, with our trademark copper studs offering a customisable fit. Speaking of which, should you prefer a more cinched in, tailored fit, there are stud adjusters at the jacket’s hem. Wear the jacket un-cinched in autumn over chunkier knitwear, or bring in the hem slightly for a more fitted look when worn over a T-shirt in warmer weather.
The zip also gives our Harrington a point of difference. It’s our classic copper RIRI zip, which is far superior to anything else out there on the market, and will long outlive you and I. You know it’s there, and it’s visible when the jacket is undone, but for subtlety it’s hidden by two jetted bits of fabric when zipped up. Furthermore, top stitching either side of the zip gives it structure, creating a clean, unbroken line when done up. Other jackets might pucker or flop at the collar when done up, but our zip will remain ruler straight.
Wear the jacket zipped up and you’ll appreciate the copper studs on the collar, as well as its corduroy lining. This soft, thin-wale cord is soft against the skin, adding a luxurious edge that you’ll struggle to find with other brands. This attention to detail is furthered inside the jacket. There are two interior jet pockets, coming with a button fastening in the same manner as our raincoat. There’s a full cotton lining for increased softness and warmth, and silk-like viscose lining the arms, making it a pleasure to take it on and off. Every seam and every detail is finished to perfection.
We use the finest waterproof Ventile® cotton for a start, the very same fabric that’s made our raincoat the industry standard. And we’ve also subtly tweaked and improved our Harrington over the years, to the point where we now produce the ultimate example. For a lightweight, waterproof, casual and effortlessly cool jacket, this is the one.
So how should you wear the Harrington? It’s easy, really. This is about the most versatile and effortless piece of outerwear around. You don’t have to think when throwing on the Harrington, and that’s the beauty of it. Whether you go for navy, British racing green, sand or sage, this is the jacket you’ll reach for when you want comfort as well as style. Wear it like the mods would have and try it with indigo denim, a jersey crewneck and boots.
This is a look that will see you through all manner of situations, from casual Friday in the office to a Sunday roast at the pub. Should you need it though, the Harrington can be dressed up. Its watertight properties ensure it’s a rainy day essential, and it will keep a shirt and tie completely dry underneath. Indeed, whether you need an adaptable weekday jacket or a raincoat replacement, the Harrington can do it all.
THE VENTILE® HARRINGTON
To understand the Harrington you have to consider it within the context of British style history. Aside from the Savile Row suit, few garments have had such a widespread global impact as this humble design. It started, of course, in Manchester. It was intended, as it is now, as a light, casual jacket that offered plenty of style with its short cut and distinctive collar, as well as rain resistance. It quickly caught on, with James Dean and Elvis Presley favouring it in the ‘50s, and Steve McQueen often wearing one in the ‘60s. The holy trinity of men’s style icons, these men undoubtedly contributed to the Harrington’s success. But fundamentally, it’s the jacket’s design that made it stick.
It’s a simple piece, the Harrington, with its zip front, slanted side pockets and tab collar. Wear it half open a la Dean, or zip it up like the mods of the ‘60s; you’ll look cool either way. This same versatility is a virtue of our own Harrington. But while it’s traditional in style, we’ve moved things on slightly from the jackets you might have seen sixty years ago. First off, we’ve made it from our innovative Ventile® cotton. This is the very same fabric you’ll find with our raincoat.
It’s extraordinarily light yet entirely waterproof, thanks to the thousands of tiny woven threads that swell when wet, blocking any water from getting in. As with our raincoat though, this is a fabric that remains breathable, unlike the rubberised cotton of days gone by. This means we were able to get rid of the rear ‘umbrella’ yoke you’ll find on classic Harringtons - it’s an unnecessary detail that was only there to help the jacket breathe. Like with all of our products, we don’t have to get around the problem, because we’ve solved the problem.
Elsewhere it’s got raglan shoulders for improved comfort and movement over in-set sleeves. This gives it a sporty, relaxed feel that almost hugs you when you put it on. But we’ve smartened up other elements of the jacket. Gone are the G9’s ribbed hem and cuffs, and instead you’ll find a clean, straight hem and shirt sleeve cuff. The former is smarter, giving the style an unbroken silhouette which sits over the hips thanks to a slightly boxy cut.
The shirt sleeve cuff, meanwhile, is a superior design to the lazier ribbed cuff, and means you can actually fold them back in spring and summer. They’re adjustable too, with our trademark copper studs offering a customisable fit. Speaking of which, should you prefer a more cinched in, tailored fit, there are stud adjusters at the jacket’s hem. Wear the jacket un-cinched in autumn over chunkier knitwear, or bring in the hem slightly for a more fitted look when worn over a T-shirt in warmer weather.
The zip also gives our Harrington a point of difference. It’s our classic copper RIRI zip, which is far superior to anything else out there on the market, and will long outlive you and I. You know it’s there, and it’s visible when the jacket is undone, but for subtlety it’s hidden by two jetted bits of fabric when zipped up. Furthermore, top stitching either side of the zip gives it structure, creating a clean, unbroken line when done up. Other jackets might pucker or flop at the collar when done up, but our zip will remain ruler straight.
Wear the jacket zipped up and you’ll appreciate the copper studs on the collar, as well as its corduroy lining. This soft, thin-wale cord is soft against the skin, adding a luxurious edge that you’ll struggle to find with other brands. This attention to detail is furthered inside the jacket. There are two interior jet pockets, coming with a button fastening in the same manner as our raincoat. There’s a full cotton lining for increased softness and warmth, and silk-like viscose lining the arms, making it a pleasure to take it on and off. Every seam and every detail is finished to perfection.
So how should you wear the Harrington? It’s easy, really. This is about the most versatile and effortless piece of outerwear around. You don’t have to think when throwing on the Harrington, and that’s the beauty of it. Whether you go for navy, British racing green, sand or sage, this is the jacket you’ll reach for when you want comfort as well as style. Wear it like the mods would have and try it with indigo denim, a jersey crewneck and boots.
This is a look that will see you through all manner of situations, from casual Friday in the office to a Sunday roast at the pub. Should you need it though, the Harrington can be dressed up. Its watertight properties ensure it’s a rainy day essential, and it will keep a shirt and tie completely dry underneath. Indeed, whether you need an adaptable weekday jacket or a raincoat replacement, the Harrington can do it all.