The sport coat (or sport jacket) is an essential component of every man’s wardrobe, providing a sartorial transition from business to casual while maintaining a certain air of sophistication. The sport coat has been around for almost 150 years and is rooted in the gentlemanly pursuit of leisure.
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HISTORY OF THE SPORT COAT
The sport coat owes its origins to the British aristocracy, who wanted a jacket suitable for outdoor activities such as shooting and riding. Fashion historians list the tweed Norfolk jacket — so-named for the Duke of Norfolk who popularized it in the 1800s — as the first sport jacket. Designed with function in mind, the sport coat eventually achieved mainstream prominence and, by the mid-1930s, was considered the primary alternative to dressing in a full suit.
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A SPORT COAT AND A BLAZER?
In common parlance the terms sport coat and blazer are often used interchangeably. Strictly speaking, however, there are several differences that set the two garments apart. While sport coats evolved from civilian suits, blazers get their heritage from the British navy (which is why the most classic version is still navy blue). The original blazer was a six-button double breasted model with polished brass buttons. Today, blazers still feature polished metal buttons but can be either single or double-breasted.
Blazers are almost always made in a dark solid color like navy blue or black. In contrast, sports coats come in vast range of colors, styles and designs and are best when done in seasonal fabrics such as wool flannel or cashmere for winter and cotton, linen and silk blends for summer.
AND THE PANTS?
MATERIAL MATTERS
PATTERNS OF STYLE
