Two giants of the English and American heritage scenes are coming together in a landmark meeting — seamlessly merging their individual interpretations of hardy, life-proof gear.
While the heads of state continue messing around on the global stage, Levi’s and Barbour are busy forging the *real* “special relationship” between the UK and USA. Two names that need no introduction, the brands have a collective 300+ years of experience outfitting tradesmen and women, each growing from purpose-built outfitters to omnipresent, heritage-steeped icons of the contemporary landscape.
Whereas Levi’s roots are firmly woven within the indigo-dyed tapestry of American workwear, Barbour’s background comes from dressing the dockworkers and seafarers of industrial England.
Barbour emerged during the late 19th century as the first brand to commercialise waxed-cotton jackets on a grand scale — a feat which would transcend its blue-collar roots, as Barbour eventually earned a Royal Warrant in 1974, which still holds today after a lifetime producing some of the most timelessly functional jackets England has to offer.
Amongst streetwear-focused link-ups with the likes of Palace Skateboards and Noah, Barbour’s latest project with Levi’s stands out as a true love letter to heritage apparel — manifesting itself over a well-rounded offering that blends the best of both brands’ worlds.
Levi’s 568 Loose Denim jeans feature in the collection, alongside subtly-pleated 578 Baggy Corduroy Trousers, which each display dual-branded rear patches and Barbour’s logo stitched on the coin pockets. Classical versions of the firms’ insignias appear joined-up on boxy graphic t-shirts, while a more detailed rendition is applied to the rear of vintage-inspired, cotton fleece hoodies.
Moving onto the main course, Barbour and Levi’s connect over two iterations of the classic Type II Jacket — first in familiar, vintage-washed denim and again in “olive” waxed cotton.
The durability of the 1950s-style piece is enhanced by the inclusion of a Barbour zip behind its traditional button placket, while the collars are reimagined in corduroy and the inners use the same tartan lining that has graced Barbour outerwear for 130 years.
Now in Barbour’s wheelhouse, the Spey and Bedale are reworked to include details synonymous with the Levi’s brand — coming to fruition via western-influenced pocket designs and workwear-approved pleats, alongside a full-denim Bedale finished with brassy buttons and rivets in all the right places.
Each of the jackets is complete with enamel pin badges at the collars, and are available to mix and match with Barbour x Levi’s waxed caps.
The Barbour x Levi’s collection is available to shop as of today, Thursday October 30 via the Levi’s and Barbour websites and physical stores.
