The jacket, a garment once reserved for men, has undergone a fascinating transformation as it has become an essential element of the female wardrobe. Its evolution reflects not only the changes in fashion, but also the social and cultural transformations that marked the 19th and 20th centuries.
The women's jacket first appeared in the late 19th century, influenced by the women's emancipation movement. Early versions were often worn in more practical contexts, such as horse riding or cycling, where freedom of movement was essential.
With the advent of the Roaring Twenties, women adopted more masculine and androgynous styles. The jacket, often associated with the flapper style, became a symbol of liberation and modernity. Coco Chanel played a crucial role in popularizing comfortable, menswear-inspired clothing.
During World War II, economic restrictions and the need to participate in the war effort had a profound impact on women's fashion. Women, who were increasingly entering the workforce to replace men who had gone to the front, needed practical, robust and functional clothing.
Jackets of this era reflected these needs with stiffer cuts , often made in utilitarian materials such as wool or tweed, due to the shortage of more luxurious textiles.
The women's jacket has taken an iconic place in pop culture, notably in series such as Peaky Blinders and Outlander , where it symbolises both strength and elegance. In Peaky Blinders , women adopt jackets inspired by masculine style, marking their emancipation in a male-dominated universe. Their structured outfits reflect a rebellious and sophisticated allure. In Outlander , the women's jacket is reinterpreted through period costumes, mixing classic cuts with modern touches, to highlight the resilience and adaptability of female characters in tumultuous historical contexts.
The women's jacket has evolved far beyond its masculine roots, becoming a symbol of the changing place of women in society. From liberation to the demand for equality, it remains a timeless and versatile piece, always in tune with the challenges and aspirations of each era.