For this fall selection, we're going to talk about workwear. We're going to talk about character clothing. Let's go.
Vintage US Army Wool Overshirt
I'm not a big fan of thrift stores and vintage clothing, unlike Jordan .
The main reason being that I have a lot of trouble finding clothes that fit me: they're often too big, too short, or even both.
But not this time, with this piece found at Brut Clothing .
1. The story of this overshirt
Used by American soldiers during the Korean War, this model would be reissued in the following decades for military operations in cold weather.
You will find visuals of this overshirt worn by soldiers on this US Militaria Forum topic .
The one I bought was made in 1953. Despite all these decades, I am impressed by its condition: like new, with no holes, discoloration or unpleasant odors, which attests to probably exemplary storage conditions.
This shirt is from " deadstock ": this means that this garment was produced but was not used.
2. A piece built to last
First of all, a beautiful military green. It's hard to get more authentic.
The shirt collar is generous: 11cm in length.
Made in the United States, the overshirt is made of 85% wool with 15% nylon added for strength.
Speaking of strength, we can see that two additional panels of material have been added at the shoulders, most likely to support the weight of the soldiers' very heavy backpacks.
The two extra panels of material added to the shoulders are clearly visible here.
In any case, the garment is heavy: 772g on the scale . An overshirt that weighs the same as a thick sweater.
Regarding the cut, it is rather generous: the M indicated on the label corresponds more to an L.
For information, I am 1m88 tall and weigh 80kg.
The two patch pockets at mid-height are original. and well proportioned.
Just one last point of detail on the cut: the armhole is low, and consequently the sleeve is quite wide. The garment was probably designed this way with comfort in mind.
3. Ideal for a workwear look
I'm a big fan of open rooms like this. because you can wear them open or closed by playing with the buttons, depending on the desired style and the ambient temperature.
Wear this overshirt over a textured shirt, a simple white tee shirt, a sweatshirt . On the bottom: a good pair of slightly faded raw jeans, beige cargo pants, or even gray flannel pants will go perfectly.
For my part, I suggest a very workwear look, in keeping with the spirit of the piece:
Henley BonneGueule, Norse Projects jeans, Red Wing boots, LodinG belt
I also saw that Alessandro Squarzi was sporting this same overshirt with his unshakeable white pants on his Instagram account:
4. Where to find this product?
Brut Clothing only offers this model in M.
For other sizes, you will have to search a little on the web, with keywords like " wool shirt", "us army", "1950s", "1970s", "korean war".
I found it:
- In S and M at Broadway and Sons
- In size L on Army Navy Sale s
- Archive 18-20 also offers the product in one size (probably M) at a higher price.
Buttero Suede Leather Sneakers
Why this brand?
Buttero is a brand that we have been following for quite a while at BonneGueule. We even did a collaboration with them in 2015 on two pairs of low-top sneakers .
Personally, I really like the brand, which manages to offer basic models with a touch of workwear inspiration on the one hand, and much more creative models on the other.
On the left, the iconic Tanino model. On the right, a pair with a more "fashion" bias.
Why these sneakers?
These are simply THE sneakers I was looking for.
I don't own many because most of the models I see are often a little too wise, in fairly classic color ranges (either light, pastel tones, or navy blue or black, very dark).
However, I wanted a pair with more character and an intermediate, warmer color.
It's a win here: the ecru-colored Margom sole, the contrasting laces, the visible metal eyelets and this pretty brown suede leather in all its nuances give this pair made in Italy a certain cachet.
Two pairs of socks offered by La Tranchée Militaire
Why the Military Trench?
La Tranchée Militaire is a military surplus: their selection is made up of stocks of military clothing found in France or abroad, sorted and put up for sale.
I spent a lot of time browsing their e-shop, and it was the socks that caught my attention the most: very durable, pretty, often in interesting compositions and inexpensive.
By the way, if you are from Tours or Paris, don't hesitate to drop by and see them in their shops .
NATO wool/polyamide ecru socks
Great socks for winter :
- Very thick, you can see it just in the photo
- Very warm thanks to 67% wool
- Very resistant with 33% polyamide
They are also made in France.
How to wear ecru socks?
Take them on:
- In slightly vintage looks with sneakers
- In a slightly workwear look with a pair of boots
- In a preppy look with beautiful loafers.
In short, break the established rules a little .
Here is a nice inspiration by Crockett&Jones:
Tactical socks in bamboo/polyamide/elastane
Here is a product that really interests me: I am curious to know what these socks made of 80% bamboo might be worth. in terms of warmth, resistance and odor absorption.
I also really like the green and coyote colors offered, very versatile
Finally, these socks go up quite high, like knee-highs . Practical for hiding your ankle when you are sitting with a suit or pants cut a little short.
I haven't bought these socks yet, but I will soon : )
