Estimated 1950s, a French-made green cotton canvas hunting jacket.
The "Hunting Jacket" stands as a cornerstone of French workwear.
Hunting, as a pursuit of game, was practiced as sport and leisure among the upper classes of that era.
Production as workwear was rare; only select members of the upper echelon wore these for hunting expeditions.
Brands seldom mass-produced them, and pieces from earlier decades were frequently crafted to order—making this a particularly refined example within French workwear.
This piece employs cotton canvas, the defining fabric of classic French workwear.
Woven from heavy-gauge yarn, the canvas possesses inherent durability and water resistance, with aging being one of its greatest appeals.
Visible character marks typical of canvas are already present, lending an authentically vintage character.
Canvas often carries a reputation for rigidity, yet this specimen has softened considerably through years of wear, offering effortless comfort.
Where corduroy or wool limits seasonal wear, cotton permits year-round use—versatility across the calendar.
The design features distinctly French details: a generously rounded collar, animal-horn buttons, and an A-line silhouette.
As a hunting jacket, it carries a substantial game pocket across the back for carrying game.
This example is distinguished by the presence of a chin strap—a feature seen on only select pieces.
The difference between a chin strap and its absence is profound.
Beyond mere value as an object, the bearing it lends when the collar is raised—that ineffable quality—is irreplaceable.
Finding a chin-strapped example across any era is uncommon. Should one appear, acquisition is advised without hesitation.
Yet perhaps the defining feature lies in the color itself.
This is not a deep forest green, but rather a fresh mint tone that elevates earthy styling into something refined and elevated.
For those inclined toward distinction, this is a thoughtful choice. Beyond its rarity, it welcomes town wear with ease.
Inside, a double label: an embroidered tag from La Favorite in black with yellow lettering, and a printed tag from COLAM.
Embroidered labels of this era are sought by many.
No size marking remains, though it approximates an M.
By measurements, it represents a golden size for Japanese proportions, suiting a broad range of builds.
It reads well whether worn fitted or oversized.
Canvas character marks, soiling, color variation, wear, and missing buttons are present—yet no damage of consequence impedes wear.
The hunting jacket is essential to French vintage—a piece that cannot be discussed without mentioning it.
Particularly in this color, examples are seldom encountered.
Hunting jackets have climbed in value year upon year. Should you seek one, this warrants consideration.
