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Origins
The term parka originates from the Nenets language, which is spoken by an indigenous population in Siberia, and it means “animal skin” However, it was primarily the Inuit who developed the parka into the form most similar to what we recognize today. The Inuit created parkas to protect themselves from the freezing temperatures and biting winds of the Arctic. These garments were crafted from three layers of animal hides, including caribou, seal, or polar bear, and were often treated with fish oil to make them waterproof. All Inuit parkas share three key features: A fur-lined hood, typically made from wolf or fox fur, designed to shield the face from icy winds, a mid-thigh or knee-length cut for optimal coverage, a loose fit that allows for layering underneath for additional warmth.
The parka‘s exceptional thermal insulation soon drew the attention of military designers, who adapted it to meet the demands of 20th-century warfare. In the 1950s, during the Korean War, the U.S. Army introduced the iconic M-51 Fishtail Parka. This variant is distinguished by its “fishtail” split at the back, which enables soldiers to tie the ends around their legs for added protection against the cold. The outer shell is made of military green fabric, making it instantly recognizable and well-suited for combat environments.
Cultural impact
The Parka was not limited to the battlefield; its aesthetic appeal and practicality quickly transformed it into a cultural icon. In the 1960s, the Parka made a significant leap into civilian fashion, becoming a symbol of youth rebellion thanks to the London Mods. These followers of Modern Jazz, who appreciated clean and sophisticated lines, adopted the Parka to protect their stylish suits from harsh weather and mud splashed up by their scooters, typically Vespas or Lambrettas, as they raced through the streets of London. Often sourced from military surplus sales, the Parka became a signature piece of the movement, frequently adorned with the Royal Air Force roundel, which stood out on the shoulders of these urban dandies.
This unmistakable aesthetic was masterfully portrayed in the film Quadrophenia (1979), inspired by The Who’s legendary album, which solidified the Parka’s status in pop culture history.
Screen appearances
Since then, the parka has transcended decades and cultures, evolving and adapting to new trends in fashion and cinema. From the 1970s to the 1990s, it solidified its status as a timeless garment: Roger Moore wore it in 007 – Target: Killing, while Rock Hudson sported a version in Ice Station Zebra. In the 1990s, the parka became a symbol of the Britpop scene, with Liam Gallagher wearing it on stages around the world, transforming it into an icon of rebellious and enduring style.
Our version of an icon
Today, the parka is an essential garment—a true must-have in any wardrobe. It combines functionality, style, and versatility into one solution, making it perfect for all seasons.
The parka effortlessly transitions from everyday city wear to the most extreme outdoor adventures. Its iconic silhouette is designed to provide maximum protection. Long enough to reach the knees, it wraps around the body without constricting movement, offering ideal coverage against wind, rain, and cold temperatures. A distinctive feature is the hood with a pronounced brim, designed to shield the face from the elements. Additionally, the hand-warmer chest pockets add practicality and comfort, keeping hands warm without the need for gloves. Another essential aspect is the adjustable drawstrings at the waist and bottom, allowing for a perfect fit that flatters your physique while ensuring freedom of movement. The adjustable cuffs help retain warmth by sealing the sleeves for optimal insulation. What truly makes the parka flexible and adaptable is its removable inner lining. This feature transforms it into a garment suitable for any season. In traditional versions, the inner lining is made of quilted nylon with padding, providing lightness and warmth. More sophisticated variants may feature a lamb fleece lining, adding an extra touch of softness and thermal insulation. This inner layer can be easily removed or attached to the outer shell with buttons or zippers, making the parka a modular and transformable piece capable of handling any weather condition.
Overall, the parka remains a durable and timeless ally, always ready for action. Its ability to adapt to changing fashion trends while maintaining its core identity cements its status as an iconic garment that continues to reinvent itself without losing its distinctive character.
