The Norfolk jacket is a loose-fitting, single-breasted blazer with a belt or half belt, designed for English sportsmen to allow for easy movement when hunting. It has periodic popularity as a versatile, casual alternative to other blazers and is often made of tweed or wool. It was a favorite of 19th-century outdoor sportsmen and is still seen on police and military uniforms.
A Norfolk jacket is a loose-fitting, single-breasted blazer that features a belt or half belt, two pleats at the front and one at the back. Originally made for English sportsmen, the jacket was designed to fit more loosely through the shoulders so that hunters could easily raise their arms and fire a rifle or shotgun. Since it was first introduced in the 1860s, the Norfolk jacket has enjoyed periodic popularity as a versatile, more casual alternative to other types of blazers.
The jacket is believed to have been first worn in the mid-19th century, either by the Prince of Wales or the sports-loving, gun-wielding 15th Duke of Norfolk. Although the jacket has long been associated with the Edwardian style of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it has made a periodic reappearance in recent decades as designers have sought to evoke the look of a genteel, country gentleman. Later designers found that the jacket could very well accompany many types of trousers, with the advantage that it simply had to complement the trousers rather than match them.
Often made of tweed or another type of wool, the jacket has one or two chest pockets, as well as large side pockets. The creases allow the user to enjoy freer movement of the torso, a critical asset when the user has to turn and shoot in a fast-moving game. The front usually has three buttons, a style that remained in vogue for men’s jackets through much of the Edwardian era. In fact, the Edwardian era saw the advent of the “sportsmanlike” style of clothing for men: clothing featuring the shorter, single-breasted coat style.
The Norfolk jacket was a favorite of 19th century outdoor sportsmen, whether hunting or fishing. Its wool construction allowed for comfort and warmth. The loose trousers that often accompanied the jacket made it attractive to 19th-century hikers, as shown in many contemporary illustrations. The jacket was rarely worn without panties; It wasn’t until the 20th century that designers combined the jacket with different pants. English schoolchildren continued to wear Norfolk jackets as part of their uniforms well into the 20th century.
With its shorter coat, the Norfolk jacket heralded the modern men’s suit. The jacket itself lives on and is commonly seen on police and military uniforms. Variations can still be found in stores for both men and women. Modern versions are made from a variety of materials, including silk, cotton, and linen.
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