A French-made black moleskin work jacket, estimated from the 1930s.
A special arrival.
The work jacket—an essential piece in French vintage style.
These were widely worn as workwear by those laboring in French mines, factories, and farms of the era.
Fabrics varied considerably—cotton twill, moleskin, cotton piqué, corduroy, wool—each chosen according to the working environment and the time.
This particular piece is made from moleskin, the quintessential fabric of French workwear.
The name itself comes from its resemblance to the skin of a mole.
When you touch it, you'll notice something unexpected—a smoothness that belies cotton, a substantial weight, and a subtle sheen.
This quality lies in the weave itself.
Moleskin is woven using a satin weave technique.
Satin weave uses five or more threads and is one of the three fundamental weave structures. The threads float minimally, with only the warp or weft visible on the surface.
The result is a high-density fabric—thick, flexible, smooth, and lustrous.
This very combination of density, weight, and flexibility is why moleskin was chosen for workwear—garments subjected to the harshest conditions.
This piece is made from black moleskin, far rarer than its blue counterpart.
Black's versatility means many seek it out.
Having actually served as workwear, its functionality is uncompromised.
Regardless of era, maker, or condition, black moleskin work jackets are scarce and highly sought.
Among these, this piece is exceptional—it carries a rare detail: six front buttons.
Five buttons became the standard, the norm. In French workwear, six buttons is recognized as a distinctive rarity.
One button—a small difference, yet it carries weight in terms of value and significance.
It also features the desirable details collectors seek: a rounded collar, an A-line silhouette, and V-pockets.
Inside, there is an embroidered label from LE MONT VERDUN, gold thread on black ground.
Such period-correct embroidered labels appeal to those with a discerning eye.
There is no size marking visible, but the proportions suggest it would fit a Japanese M to L.
Based on the actual measurements, this appears to be a golden size—suitable for a wide range of builds. It can be worn close or oversized, and it will carry itself well either way.
There are creases, natural wear marks in the fabric, some fraying, and minor button wear—all signs of a life well-lived. There are no significant damages that would impede wearing.
Black moleskin is far less common than blue, especially in older examples with six buttons. Such pieces are rarely encountered, domestically or internationally.
A worthy addition to any wardrobe, and equally compelling as a collection piece.
This is the sort of jacket that defines French workwear heritage. If you have been searching for such a piece, this opportunity is rare.
