#NotOldyButGoldy
Vintage is *CHORE COAT*
4 pockets that contains 200 years, from wrench to smartphone.
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#NotOldyButGoldy
Vintage is *CHORE COAT*
4 pockets that contains 200 years, from wrench to smartphone.
The Chore Coat originated in late 19th-century France as a work garment for farmers and laborers. Made from tear- and wear-resistant fabrics, it was designed for practicality and durability in harsh working conditions. One of its most distinctive features is the presence of multiple pockets, which are essential for carrying tools and small everyday items. This detail contributed to its popularity among workers and railwaymen in the early 20th century.
In France, the garment was known as Bleu de Travail, a name derived from the characteristic blue color used in its production. This same color gave rise to the term “blue-collar” which became widely used throughout the 20th century to refer to the working class.
When it reached the United States, its use expanded even further, becoming an essential piece of clothing for farmers, carpenters, and laborers. In the U.S., it came to be known as the Chore Coat, literally meaning “task jacket” and solidified its status as a functional and versatile staple of workwear.
The characteristics of this coat made it perfect for traditional working activities and for the artistic ones too.
Jackson Pollock, the greatest exponent of action painting during the ‘50s, used to wear them while painting as we can see from photographic memories.
The most interesting example of this interaction comes from Bill Cunningham, his chore coat has become an uniform during his long and epic career as fashion photographer for the New York Times.
During ‘90s this garment has gained new popularity thanks to Tupac Shakur, who wore a denim version at the Soul Train Awards in 1993 with Rosie Perez.
Cinema has frequently utilized the Chore Coat to enhance the authenticity of characters associated with the working world, as well as to symbolize a rejection of it at times. In Cool Hand Luke (1967), Paul Newman wears the coat in one of his most memorable performances, cementing its status as a symbol of resilience and nonconformity. In the Western True Grit (1969), the iconic John Wayne sports a Chore Coat, which adds an aura of toughness and practicality to his character. Additionally, in The Shawshank Redemption (1994), prison inmates wear four-pocket denim jackets during outdoor hours, clearly referencing the garment’s original purpose.
The Chore Coat, also known as Four Pockets Jacket, has become one of the most sought-after pieces in contemporary wardrobes, with a growing demand for original vintage versions. Its boxy silhouette and relaxed fit make it incredibly versatile and practical, perfect for layering throughout the year.
What makes the Chore Coat instantly recognizable are its patch pockets, which are designed for maximum functionality. It typically features two large, deep pockets on the lower part, along with one or two on the chest, and sometimes a fourth pocket hidden inside. These pockets are reinforced with sturdy stitching to withstand wear and tear. The coat has a classic, straight fastening, and a simple pointed collar that emphasizes its essential and timeless character.
Originally created as a workwear garment, the Chore Coat has traditionally been made from durable fabrics such as gabardine, canvas, moleskin, and denim, which are ideal for enduring tough conditions. However, in Vintage55’s archive, you can find reinterpretations made from less conventional materials like corduroy, fleece, or wool, giving the coat a more refined appearance without compromising its practicality. One of its greatest strengths is its ease of maintenance. Without padding or complex linings, the Chore Coat is easy to wash while preserving its authentic charm over time. With its heritage deeply rooted in workwear and a strong vintage appeal, this piece remains relev
Music tip: “Factory”
Bruce Springsteen
