A double-breasted leather coat from the Carabinieri, the Italian military police, estimated from the 1950s.
The Carabinieri is a law enforcement agency established in 1814 by Vittorio Emanuele I of the Kingdom of Sardinia, functioning as an independent military force with both military and police capabilities.
Inspired by the French Gendarmerie, this organization originally served as a regional police force in Savoy.
Following national unification, the Carabinieri expanded in numbers and was designated as the 'First Corps' of the new Italian national army in 1861. During World War I, they served as barrier troops, and during World War II, they participated in suppressing opposition under fascist Italy.
While long serving as part of the Italian military, they became an independent military force in 2000 and currently handle military operations under the Ministry of Defense while managing domestic public order and security under the Ministry of the Interior.
We present a Double Breasted Leather Coat, reportedly issued and worn by the Italian military police during that era.
While this particular piece was adopted by the Carabinieri, its origins trace back to the leather coat worn by Tank Crew members of the Italian military during World War II.
During World War II, the Italian military was equipped with various armored combat vehicles. Regardless of whether crew members were stationed in northern Greece, Croatia, Libya, or Egypt}, they wore these leather coats.
The details—notched lapels, double-breasted front, belted construction, and hand-warmer pockets—are elements also found on French made leather coats. Simple yet masculine, they convey a genuine sense of character.
This piece features the rare detail of buttons arranged in two rows—a so-called "double-breasted" configuration. Compared to single-breasted examples, the double-breasted variant certainly commands greater visual presence and impact.
The presence of a chin strap, designed to secure the collar when worn upright, is equally noteworthy.
The difference between having a chin strap and not having one is considerable.
The elevation and atmosphere created by wearing the collar raised is in a class of its own.
A stamp on the interior clearly evidencing Italian military origin is another point of merit.
The deep color retention of the stamp suggests this piece has been carefully stored over the years.
Unusually for leather coats of this type, the shoulders feature a raglan sleeve construction.
As the leather has already softened, it conforms comfortably to the wearer's shoulders, allowing for a clean silhouette without excessive rigidity.
The waist belt is fully intact, offering a two-way wearing option where the silhouette can be adjusted by tightening the belt. Feel free to vary your approach depending on your mood when wearing it.
The fabric is likely made of sheepskin.
Sheepskin is leather made from sheep more than one year of age.
Among all leathers, it offers the greatest lightness and softness. While strength and abrasion resistance are lower compared to other animal hides, its supple grip against the skin provides exceptional comfort and fit against the body.
Many avoid leather coats due to their initial stiffness, but such concerns are unnecessary here.
This piece has already achieved a soft, skin-hugging leather quality, making it remarkably easy to wear.
The lining is constructed from wool fabric, offering exceptional warmth retention.
Beyond its design, it is unquestionably a piece of superior functionality as well.
The size marking is "2"
In Japanese sizing, this corresponds to approximately M to L.
Based on the actual measurements, this appears to be a golden size for Japanese proportions, accommodating a wide range of body types.
In the manner typical of military pieces, it looks equally striking worn with a generous, draped fit.
While there is evidence of use and minor soiling, no significant damage impedes wearing, so this piece remains very much wearable.
Among the many European military items available, the Carabinieri remains relatively unknown.
This is a piece we would recommend to those with an appreciation for the rare and uncommon.
Stock of this particular piece in our shop is limited,so if you have been searching, we encourage you not to miss this opportunity.
