With summer approaching—albeit very slowly—fashionistas are on the lookout for adaptable wardrobe staples that combine comfort and style. The Harrington Jacket, also known as the Baracuta or the G9, is one such staple—a timeless classic worn by icons of their eras, including Frank Sinatra and James Dean.
Due to its versatile design, the Harrington Jacket has stood the test of time since the 1930s. An emblem of youth and rebellion, it was soon adopted by the UK’s mod scene and has since been incorporated into everyday fashion trends. Here’s a guide to styling your Harrington Jacket this summertime, ensuring you stay cool, comfortable, and, most importantly, stylish.
The Rebel Without A Cause
Pair your Harrington jacket with a simple white T-shirt and slim-fit jeans for a quintessential casual look—the James Dean. Whether you’re meeting mates at the local watering hole or running daily errands, this is an all-purpose, all-situations get-up.
Styling Tips:
● Choose lighter-washed denim to emphasise summer styling.
● Accessorise with sunglasses—aviators or rounded lenses with tortoiseshell frames.
● Add a classic baseball cap in a neutral summer colour such as white, beige or navy.
The Smarter Than Usual
For occasions that require a bit more class, the Harrington can easily be dressed up, proving yet again its versatility. Pair it with a custom or slim-fit short-sleeve shirt and chinos for a smart casual outfit, perfect for Friday beers with the boys or convincing your Tinder date that you’ve got your life together (even when you don’t).
Styling Tips:
● Trade trainers for desert boots or loafers to enhance and smarten your outfit.
● For an all-rounder, choose a Harrington jacket in a neutral colour or tone, such as Navy, tan, or black.
● Accessorise with a classic timepiece, ideally with a vintage leather strap for a touch of elevation.
The Gym & Tonic
For pretending you’re off to the gym when you’re really heading to the pub. Your Harrington jacket can be combined with athleisure pieces such as joggers, fitted T-shirts, and trendy trainers to provide comfort and simple style. Harrington jackets are designed to be functional and fashionable, perfect for those weekend outings and casual meetups.
Styling Tips:
● Monochromatic colours for a sleek, cohesive fit.
● Add a baseball cap, a canvas backpack, and maybe some headphones to signal you’re too cool for small talk.
The Quandrophenia
Throwbacks and retro styling elements are in. A classic polo, tapered trousers, and a Harrington capture the essence of 1960s mod fashion. Harrington jackets often feature traditional tartan linings, making them ideal for those trying to look like they’re in a mod documentary.
Styling Tips:
● Choose bold colours or patterns for your polo shirt to make a statement.
● Complete the ensemble with Doc Martens or Chelsea boots for that mod-inspired revival look.
● Pop your polo collar for extra individuality and attitude.
● Buy a Vespa if you’re really committed.
The Festival G9
With Summer dates clogged with music festivals; the Harrington is a great layering piece to take with you should it rain or become nippy. Harrington Jackets are lightweight, perfect for tying around your waist or throwing over your shoulder when the sun’s out. Festivals have no real fashion restrictions, so get creative!
Styling Tips:
● Pick a vibrant, summery-coloured Harrington jacket to stand out in the crowd and help your mates spot you when you’ve wandered off to the bar.
● Graphic, vintage-inspired band t-shirts are the perfect base layer, paired with distressed denim shorts and trainers you don’t mind wrecking.
● Accent your look with sunnies, bucket hats or baseball caps.
● A Paisley bandana in a bold colour could help refine your festival fit.
The Beach Baracuta
The flexible nature of the Harrington jacket is highlighted when layered over a breezy linen shirt. Pair it with fitted or pleated shorts, espadrilles, or boat shoes for a preppy, yacht-owning, rich kid aesthetic.
Styling Tips:
● To reflect the summertime, opt for a Harrington jacket in lighter shades, such as khaki, beige, white, or pastel colours.
● Leave the top two linen shirt buttons undone and tuck in one side for a more casual, nonchalance.
● Add a braided leather belt for a preppy feel or a rope belt if you’re feeling nautical.
The Conclusion
The men’s Harrington Jacket is a timeless, versatile piece of clothing that can be styled for any summer occasion—be it sun-soaked festivals, warm evening dates or coastal drives. Whether your style is modern, retro, or done up to the nines, there’s a range of Harrington jackets for anyone who wants to feel iconic this summer.
Just remember: It’s always jacket weather somewhere!