From Field to Fashion: The Barbour Beaufort Jacket at 40
When it comes to iconic outerwear, few brands can claim the timeless appeal, luxury and relevance of Barbour. This leading countrywear brand has mastered signature styles for generations, combining British craftsmanship with heritage and durability to create timeless outerwear that stands the test of time. The Barbour Beaufort jacket is no exception.
As the Beaufort jacket celebrates its 40th anniversary, it seems only fitting to delve into its rich heritage and enduring purpose. This classic outerwear garment has not just weathered the years; it has remained a steadfast companion for generations of countryside explorers and city goers, embodying the spirit of Barbour’s bespoke British craftsmanship and utility.
Join us as we journey through time, exploring the origins and enduring relevance of the Beaufort Jacket and why it deserves a spot in every country lover’s wardrobe!
Table of contents
- Firstly, what is a Beaufort jacket?
- Why is it called Beaufort?
- The Barbour Evergreen Icons
- Are Barbour Beaufort jackets waterproof?
- Can I wash a Barbour Beaufort jacket?
- Shop Barbour jackets at Brocklehursts
Firstly, what is a Beaufort jacket?
The Beaufort Jacket is a waxed cotton jacket produced by Barbour, recently part of Barbour's Evergreen Icons range. It was designed by Chairman Dame Margaret Barbour in 1983 and has since become one of Barbour's most iconic waxed jacket styles.
When launched in 1983, the Beaufort was designed as a multi-purpose sports jacket, merging the practical requirements of countryside garments with the latest high-street fashion. Today, it is typically available in olive green, a nod back to the brand's heritage and countryside roots.
One of the key features of the Beaufort jacket is its waxed cotton outer shell, which provides ample protection against the elements. Meanwhile, its traditional tartan lining adds a luxurious layer of warmth while reinforcing its British heritage. The jacket also includes various pockets and compartments, making it the perfect choice for outdoor pursuits!
Barbour 40th Anniversary Beaufort Wax Jacket
Why is it called Beaufort?
The Beaufort jacket's name was inspired by its creator's Dame Margaret trips to France. Dame Margaret regularly visited France, finding that shooting jackets had more flair and style than Britain's traditional shooting clothing. With this in mind, when Dame Margaret designed the Beaufort jacket, she named it as such to reflect the multicultural charm and character that inspired it.
The Barbour Evergreen Icons
The Barbour Evergreen Icons campaign celebrates the acclaimed garments the brand is renowned for: classic waxed jackets. These include the Beaufort, Bedale, Border, Ashby, and Beadnell jackets.
Sitting at the heart of the Evergreen Icons range, the Beaufort jacket encapsulates the best of Barbour’s heritage, representing the traditional style and design features that Barbour jackets have been renowned for since 1894.
Beaufort jacket features
The Beaufort jacket was designed in 1983 and features a mid-length style similar to other standard-length jackets. It is long enough to cover suit jackets, offering a classy and timeless look that is functional and stylish.
Classic Beaufort jackets feature spacious bellow pockets with drainage holes and handwarmer pockets lined with moleskin, perfect for British winters. They also have inside pockets ideal for storing everyday essentials and a large back pocket, originally designed to carry game.
What is the difference between Beaufort and Bedale jackets?
The Bedale jacket was first introduced by Barbour Chairman Dame Margaret in 1980, three years before the Beaufort. It was named after a rural town in North Yorkshire and created with equestrians in mind, its short length ensuring the wearer doesn’t sit on the lower part of the jacket while riding.
The main difference between the Beaufort and the Bedale is length. While the Beaufort is mid-length, the Bedale offers a shorter style ideal for riding. This also means that the Bedale is lighter than the Beaufort, as it naturally contains less cloth and material due to its shorter length. Both jackets have become well-loved garments for countryside pursuits and city activities alike!
What is the difference between a Barbour Beaufort and Beadnell jacket?
The Beadnell jacket is a ladies' jacket with a slim-fit style. This contrasts with the Beaufort's relaxed, traditional fit. The Beadnell was named after a small village in Northumberland, and since its 2010 introduction, it has become a style icon for women with its distinctive silhouette and style that does not compromise on warmth, elegance, or functionality.
What is the difference between a Beaufort and Ashby jacket?
The Ashby jacket was introduced in 2011 and quickly became one of the most popular Barbour jackets. The original Bedale jacket inspired its design. However, it offers a more tailored fit than its predecessor.
The main difference between Beaufort and Ashby jackets is how they fit. While the Beaufort offers the wearer a more traditional boxy fit, the Ashby has a much slimmer silhouette and shorter length, creating a more modern look ideal for various occasions.
What is the difference between Beaufort and Border Barbour jackets?
The Border jacket is instantly distinguishable from the Beaufort due to its longer length, which makes it ideal for taller people or those who want fuller protection.
Designed by Dame Margaret in the early 1980s, the Border jacket is perfect for layering over suits due to its generous fit and long sleeves. It offers the most protection from the elements of all the Evergreen Icons range, making it an ideal choice for outdoor pursuits!
Are Barbour Beaufort jackets waterproof?
The Barbour Beaufort jacket is water-resistant and can withstand various weather conditioners. Its waxed cotton outer shell provides ample protection from the elements, whether moderate rain and drizzle or downpours and prolonged rain.
The Beaufort is specially treated with a wax coating that repels water. This ensures that any water that comes into contact with the jacket will bead and roll off rather than soak through the fabric. However, the Beaufort is not completely waterproof, and its water-repellent finish can wear off over time, requiring re-waxing to maintain its water-resistant properties.
Barbour recommends re-waxing the Beaufort jacket annually, which can be done at home using Barbour’s thornproof wax. This will ensure the jacket continues to protect from the elements while maintaining its classic appearance and style.
Barbour Large Thornproof Dressing
Maintaining your wax Barbour jacket is easy. However, it's important to follow your jacket's care labels and instructions to ensure it remains in good condition. Our Barbour cleaning accessories collection offers everything you need to maintain your Beaufort jacket. We also offer the best advice on how to re-wax your Barbour jacket in our latest blog!
Can I wash a Barbour Beaufort jacket?
The Beaufort’s waxed cotton fabric makes it unsuitable for conventional washing, which can cause irreversible damage and lead it to lose its water resistance. With this in mind, you should never wash your Beaufort jacket with hot water or soap or put it in the washing machine.
You can spot-clean your Beaufort jacket with a damp cloth for small stains or spots. For the best result, gently dab and clean the affected area before hanging the jacket and leaving it to air dry.
It is best to have the jacket professionally cleaned for more thorough stains and dirt.
Barbour 40th Anniversary Beaufort Wax Jacket
Shop Barbour jackets at Brocklehursts
The Beaufort jacket is a testament to Barbour’s enduring style, craftsmanship, and countryside roots, with an iconic look that has cemented its status as the heart of the Evergreen Icons campaign.
However, its appeal lies in not only its history but its style and practicality, too. With luxurious tartan lining and a quality waxed cotton shell, it is effortlessly timeless and a true statement piece for countryside enthusiasts and city dwellers alike.
At Brocklehursts, we’re proud to celebrate the Beaufort's 40th anniversary with the limited edition Beaufort jacket, available in classic Barbour colours. Discover the Beaufort today and add a true classic to your wardrobe today. Or, for more timeless garments that stand the test of time, shop the complete Barbour collection, available online at Brocklehursts.
