The Harrington jacket is more than just a fashion staple—it’s a symbol of effortless cool that has stood the test of time. From its origins in the 1930s to its prominence in 1960s Mod culture, this lightweight jacket has remained a favourite for men and women alike. Whether you’re aiming for a classic Mod look, a casual street style, or something smart-casual, the Harrington jacket is incredibly versatile.
At Mazeys, we’re all about celebrating timeless style, and the Harrington jacket is one of our most beloved pieces. In this guide, we’ll show you how to wear a Harrington jacket, what to wear with a Harrington jacket, and how to style it for different occasions and seasons. Plus, we’ll offer inspiration from iconic figures who have rocked this jacket through the decades.
1. What Is a Harrington Jacket?
Before we dive into styling, let’s first take a look at what makes the Harrington jacket so iconic.
History of the Harrington Jacket
The Harrington jacket originated in the 1930s with the Baracuta G9, designed in Manchester, England. Originally made for golfers, its lightweight yet water-resistant fabric and easy movement made it practical for both sport and casual wear. By the 1960s, it had become a fashion icon, worn by Mods and British youth who were looking for a sharp, clean look. It was during this time that the jacket became synonymous with rebellion, cool, and understated style, thanks to celebrities like Steve McQueen and Elvis Presley.
Looking to embrace the classic? Check out our collection of Harrington jackets at Mazeys, featuring traditional designs and colours.
Defining Features
The Harrington jacket is recognised for its signature features:
- A ribbed hem and cuffs, which give it a snug fit at the waist and wrists.
- A zip closure down the front, making it easy to wear over layers.
- A buttoned collar, often worn up to protect against the wind.
- The most iconic detail? The tartan lining, which gives it a classic British edge.
Why It’s a Wardrobe Essential
The beauty of the Harrington jacket lies in its versatility. It’s lightweight enough to be worn year-round, yet it offers just enough warmth for cooler weather. Its clean lines make it perfect for pairing with a range of outfits, from casual streetwear to more polished, smart-casual looks. Whether you’re a fan of classic Mod style or just looking for a jacket that works for any occasion, the Harrington is a must-have.
2. Classic Mod Style: How to Wear a Harrington Jacket the Traditional Way
One of the most iconic ways to wear a Harrington jacket is in the classic Mod style, as popularised by British youth in the 1960s. The Mods were known for their sharp, tailored clothing and minimalist style, and the Harrington jacket was a key part of their wardrobe.
The Mod Look
To achieve the traditional Mod look, focus on clean lines, slim silhouettes, and smart-casual combinations. The Harrington jacket was often worn with button-down shirts, slim-fit trousers, and loafers—an effortlessly stylish outfit that remains timeless.
- Men’s Style: For a classic Mod-inspired outfit, pair your Harrington jacket with a polo shirt or button-down, slim-fit trousers, and polished loafers.
- Women’s Style: Women can also embrace the Mod look by pairing their Harrington with a tailored blouse, a shift dress, or high-waisted trousers, creating a chic and minimalist outfit.
Don’t forget to finish the look with a few accessories. A Mod scarf or a pair of retro sunglasses can help you perfect that cool, confident Mod style.
How to Style a Harrington Jacket in the Mod Tradition
Mod styling is all about simplicity and precision. Stick to neutral or dark colours like black, navy, and olive for your Harrington jacket, and keep the rest of your outfit sharp and fitted. This will help you achieve that sleek, polished look that the Mods were famous for.
Looking for inspiration? Take a look at our classic Mod shirts, perfect for pairing with a Harrington jacket.
3. Casual Cool: How to Style a Harrington Jacket for Everyday Wear
The beauty of the Harrington jacket lies in its versatility—it’s just as effective in casual streetwear as it is in smart-casual settings. If you’re wondering how to style a Harrington jacket for more laid-back outfits, you’re in luck.
Streetwear and Casual Outfits
For an effortlessly cool, everyday look, pair your Harrington jacket with simple wardrobe basics like a T-shirt, jeans, and trainers. This look works for both men and women, offering a casual vibe that’s still put-together.
- Men’s Style: Wear your Harrington with a classic crewneck T-shirt, dark-wash jeans, and a pair of trainers. This combination is perfect for weekend outings or casual meet-ups.
- Women’s Style: Women can rock a Harrington with a pair of fitted jeans, a simple top, and trainers or ankle boots for a relaxed, comfortable style.
Mixing Textures and Colours
Don’t be afraid to play with textures and colours to make your casual Harrington jacket outfit more dynamic. A cotton or denim Harrington can be paired with wool, leather, or suede pieces to add some variety. You can also experiment with bolder colours or prints for your T-shirt or trainers.
Need some ideas? Explore our range of casual Mod footwear, which pair perfectly with a Harrington jacket for a streetwear look.
4. Smart-Casual Style: What to Wear with a Harrington Jacket for a Polished Look
The Harrington jacket isn’t just for casual outfits—it can also be dressed up for smart-casual occasions. Whether you’re heading out for dinner, meeting clients, or attending a semi-formal event, knowing what to wear with a Harrington jacket can elevate your look.
The Smart-Casual Balance
To create a smart-casual look, pair your Harrington jacket with more tailored pieces, such as chinos, tailored trousers, and dress shoes. The key is to balance the relaxed nature of the jacket with more polished elements.
- Men’s Style: Try pairing a Harrington jacket with an Oxford shirt, slim-fit chinos, and a pair of leather loafers or Chelsea boots for a polished yet relaxed look.
- Women’s Style: Women can style the Harrington jacket with a blouse, a pencil skirt or tailored trousers, and heels or ankle boots to create a chic, smart-casual outfit.
Layering Tips
In cooler weather, layer your Harrington jacket over a lightweight sweater or knitwear for extra warmth. You can also play with monochrome colour schemes or pair it with a classic scarf for a sleek and refined appearance.
To complete your look, check out our collection of lightweight knits that work perfectly for layering under a Harrington jacket.
5. Seasonal Tips: How to Wear a Harrington Jacket Throughout the Year
One of the best things about the Harrington jacket is that it’s suitable for year-round wear. With a few simple adjustments, you can wear it through spring, summer, autumn, and winter.
Spring and Summer Styling
In the warmer months, the Harrington jacket is ideal for layering over lightweight clothing. Opt for light colours like beige, light blue, or navy, and pair it with a T-shirt or polo shirt for a comfortable, stylish look.
- Men’s Style: Try pairing your Harrington with a polo shirt and chinos or lightweight trousers.
- Women’s Style: Women can wear a Harrington over a casual dress or with a T-shirt and denim shorts for a breezy, summery outfit.
Autumn and Winter Styling
As the weather gets cooler, you can layer your Harrington jacket with heavier fabrics like wool or corduroy. Darker colours such as olive, burgundy, and charcoal are great for autumn and winter, adding warmth and depth to your outfit.
- Men’s Style: Layer your Harrington over a chunky knit or a hoodie, and pair it with jeans and boots.
- Women’s Style: Women can wear the jacket over a sweater or cardigan, paired with jeans and boots for a cozy yet stylish autumn outfit.
6. Celebrity Style: How Iconic Figures Wore the Harrington Jacket
Throughout its history, the Harrington jacket has been worn by some of the most stylish icons in fashion, film, and music. Their influence has helped to solidify the jacket as a symbol of cool, rebellion, and timeless style.
The Steve McQueen Look
Known as the “King of Cool,” Steve McQueen made the Harrington jacket a symbol of effortless masculinity. His look often included pairing a navy or khaki Harrington with a simple white T-shirt and jeans—perfect for those who want a rugged, laid-back style.
Elvis Presley’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Take
Elvis Presley famously wore a Harrington jacket in the film King Creole, pairing it with classic rock ‘n’ roll staples like denim jeans and boots. His look was all about casual rebellion, and the Harrington jacket became a key part of his signature style.
James Dean’s Iconic Style
James Dean’s rebellious, youthful style has been immortalised in fashion history, and the Harrington jacket was a big part of his wardrobe. He often paired his Harrington with a pair of jeans, a simple T-shirt, and boots, embodying the cool, defiant spirit of the 1950s and 60s.
Looking to channel these icons? Explore our range of retro-inspired clothing and create your own timeless look.
The Bottom Line
The Harrington jacket is a timeless wardrobe essential that can be styled in countless ways. Whether you’re aiming for a classic Mod look, casual streetwear, or a smart-casual outfit, this versatile jacket fits seamlessly into any wardrobe.
At Mazeys, we offer a wide range of Harrington jackets and Mod-inspired clothing to help you achieve the perfect look. Check out our collection of Harrington jackets and start experimenting with your own style today.