"This is a used vintage garment and may show signs of wear. Please refer to the individual item description and review the photos carefully."
Offered here is an original 1920s button up leather jacket of British origin. During this decade, leather outerwear transitioned from specialized military aviation gear into the civilian sporting wardrobe. The 1920s marked a significant period for leather garments as they became symbols of the "Motoring Age" and early civil aviation, representing a level of modernism and adventure that made them highly treasured. Because leather was still an expensive commodity and production was not yet fully mechanized, these jackets were significant investments, often owned by early motorists and outdoor sportsmen.
The jacket is constructed from a soft sheepskin, a material that is notably rare to find in an extant garment from this period. Sheepskin is prone to degradation over a century, and the survival of this piece in a supple state is a testament to the original British tanning methods. In the 1920s, British tanners utilized traditional vegetable tanning processes, often involving long soakings in pits of oak bark and other natural tannins. This method resulted in a leather that was exceptionally soft to the touch while maintaining enough structural integrity to survive decades of use.
The design is a classic Cossack or flight pattern featuring a full button front. A distinct characteristic of this piece is the presence of buttons at the base of the collar, likely intended for a detachable fur collar added by a previous owner. The garment exhibits a unique "button patina," where various buttons from different eras have been used for repairs, documenting the jacket's long history of maintenance. At the waist are two buttoned flapped handwarmer pockets, and the hem is adjustable via two side buckles to taper the fit against the wind. The wrists are finished with standard button closures.
The interior is lined with a wool tartan blanket featuring a grey, black, and red pattern. Tartan linings were a staple of British outerwear during this period, serving both a functional and a cultural purpose. Beyond providing heavy thermal insulation, tartan was a hallmark of British textile identity and was frequently used in sporting garments to signify quality and traditional craftsmanship. The lining includes a single internal pocket. The shoulders are padded which was a common technique of this time to retain the garment's shape when worn. Given the age and the fragile nature of 1920s sheepskin, the condition of this garment makes it an extremely remarkable piece.
Condition
The leather shows moderate signs of wear, most notably edge wear, some light chapping in areas, and a few scuffs and faint paint stains. This is still remarkable for a jacket of this age, but it is worth noting for accuracy.
The interior liner is in excellent condition, with very minimal signs of wear, suggesting the piece was carefully looked after throughout its life.
Restoration
The exterior leather has been professionally cleaned and conditioned using our tailored leather care process. The inner liner has been carefully hand cleaned and steamed, along with all internal and external pockets. The metal hardware, including snaps, zippers and buttons, has been cleaned and polished to a shine. This piece is fully wearable and requires no further maintenance.
Measurements / Sizing
Recommended Size: M
Tagged Size: N/A
- Chest (Pit to Pit): 24.5” / 62.5cm
- Shoulder (Seam to Seam): 19.5” / 49.5cm
- Arm Length (Shoulder to Cuff): 26.5” / 67.5cm
- Arm Length (Pit to Cuff): 19.5” / 49.5cm
- Length (Nape to Hem): 24.5” / 62.5cm
All measurements taken in Inches and Centimetres.
Notes:
Best suits a medium as a boxy fit, with room to layer. (77)
