As the 20th century dawned, the chore jacket crossed the Atlantic, adapting to American workforces. In the United States, it earned its English moniker "chore coat," embraced by railroad engineers, ranchers, and Midwestern farmers. Brands like Carhartt, founded in 1889, mass-produced versions in rugged canvas, denim, and herringbone twill, reinforcing seams with rivets and triple-stitching for harsher conditions. This evolution marked its shift from European workshops to American barns, where it became synonymous with blue-collar grit. Culturally, the jacket transcended its utilitarian roots, appearing in iconic moments like Paul Newman donning one in the 1967 film Cool Hand Luke, symbolising rebellion and resilience. Over decades, influences from workwear pioneers like Le Mont Saint Michel in France and Pointer Brand in the U.S. helped it infiltrate fashion, blending functionality with style in a way that resonated across classes.
Today, it's a wardrobe staple, which brings us neatly to this season's Kennard jacket - a chore jacket in all but name. It's a luxurious modern reinterpretation that elevates the classic chore jacket into something more refined, and certainly not intended for grafting in! It pays homage to the chore jacket's blue-collar blueprint but reworks it for the modern man. With a relaxed silhouette that balances utility and tailoring, it's unstructured for a natural drape, featuring the hallmark three front pockets for that nod to functionality. Yet, it's the thoughtful fabric choices and details that set it apart as a luxury piece. This season, the iterations emphasise lightweight, breathable materials ideal for transitional weather, blending sustainability, comfort, and style.
Take the Kennard Jacket Faye Indigo Blue, made from an 80% cotton and 20% post-consumer recycled cotton blend, it's treated with a rich indigo dye that fades naturally over time, developing character much like vintage workwear. This eco-conscious approach honours the original bleu de travail while offering a vibrant hue that evolves with wear. For a more summery vibe, the Wilkes Sand variant, combines 52% linen and 48% cotton for breathability, perfect as an everyday layer.
Venturing into tropical wool, the Miro Navy and Miro Brown editions are lightweight and fluid for warmer months, with a natural drape that softens the workwear edges, creating an easy, refined finish that pairs effortlessly with our relaxed trousers. Meanwhile, the Tomlin Beige and Tomlin Navy options, incorporate 98% cotton with 2% elastane for subtle stretch, ensuring comfort without sacrificing the classic shape. All are made in Portugal and cut in a regular fit that flatters without constricting. What makes the Kennard truly modern is its versatility. It's a bridge between heritage and contemporary style.
