These on-trend vintage jackets are effortlessly stylish and perfect for seasonal layering.
When you think of vintage* workwear, things like cozy flannel shirts, distressed coveralls, chic carpenter jackets, and fashionable cargo pants probably come to mind—and for good reason. While all of these pieces have become romanticized wardrobe staples in recent years, workwear was originally intended for people working manual labor, whether on the railway or the farm, to protect them from the harsh elements of the job. The good news now is that you can wear a variety of vintage workwear pieces no matter your current job title, and each one tells its own unique story.
Etsy defines vintage as anything older than 20 years old, and these vintage workwear pieces come from a range of past decades, including the '70s, '80s, '90s, and more. Pro tip: When searching for vintage clothing on Etsy, click on the filters and make sure that “vintage” is selected under “item type” to ensure you’re browsing in the right category.
We sat down with Jess Church, Etsy's Senior Style Category Manager, to learn more about the vintage workwear resurgence, specifically as it applies to the world of jackets. From classic French chore jackets to vintage railway coats, read on for more from Jess on what makes these pieces so special, and treat yourself to a time-tested piece of your own after a long day's work—you deserve it.
Vintage French chore jackets
Chore jackets are exactly what they sound like—jackets typically made from durable materials like denim or heavy cotton that feature large front pockets to make chore-like tasks easier! This workwear classic, which originated in 19th century France, has a straight silhouette for a baggier fit, but don't be afraid to also throw a belt on top to give it a bit more shape when styling.
SHOP: Vintage French workwear jacket from Proletarian Couture 33, $55
SHOP: Vintage chore jacket from Ela Navega Store, $102
Vintage railway work coats
Railway coats are distinctive in their design because, when they were first produced in the mid-19th century, they catered specifically to the practical needs of railway workers with features like a button-up front, a pointed collar, and multiple pockets—perfect for holding things like tools and pocket watches. If you want to counteract the typically neutral colors railway work coats, try adding a bright bandana tied loosely around your neck or a striped shirt underneath.
SHOP: Vintage railway work coat from l Amour De Blue, $221
Vintage canvas chore jackets
What sets canvas jackets apart from other chore jackets is the cotton canvas fabric they're made from. It gives a more rugged look while still being refined, so styling options for both men and women are endless (which is what makes this option so fun).
SHOP: Vintage military-style canvas chore jacket from LIVIDO, $113
Vintage deadstock workwear
Deadstock workwear refers to inventory that stores have discontinued or items that have never been sold due to lack of demand. Any good vintage lover knows, however, that the less available something is, the more appealing it becomes to many—which is why rare deadstock workwear jackets and shirts have become coveted fashion finds.
SHOP: Vintage deadstock royal blue chore jacket from enhei, $145
SHOP: Vintage deadstock workwear shirt from Ela Navega Store, $61
Vintage wax-finished jackets
Wax-finished jackets are, as the name implies, jackets typically made from cotton cloth and finished with a sealed wax coating to create a barrier against outdoor elements like wind and rain. So, if you're someone who spends a great deal of time outdoors, whether you're gardening or just enjoying a patio brunch, a vintage wax-finished jacket is the perfect wardrobe staple to add to your outfit rotation.
SHOP: Vintage outdoor wax-finished jacket from Karamelka Treasures, $30
SHOP: Vintage blue wax jacket from The Penduline, $73
Vintage Carhartt jackets
Carhartt has been producing durable workwear since 1889. From distressed denim jackets from the '90s to blanket-linked coats that will keep you warm all year long, Carhartt items are ones you'll keep (and wear) for years to come.
SHOP: Vintage Carhartt jacket from girlstalk.vintage, $78
*Etsy has not evaluated this item's description, condition and authenticity.
