For the uninitiated, Barbour is a 128-year-old British heritage label beloved for its hardy waxed outerwear that’s long been a utilitarian staple favoured by both the everyday man and royalty against inclement weather.
It has had many collaborators over the years but Chloe has just become the first luxury label in the womenswear arena to partner with the house. At first glance, it may seem like the two brands don’t have much in common; Chloe is after all best known for girlish, bohemian sprite energy, and Barbour its ruggedly timeless, functionality-first MO.
Not so the case. Chloe’s current creative director Gabriela Hearst shares that she has always had personal memories of Barbour. Growing up, she often saw her father and step-father (both horsemen) wearing the label’s jackets to work on her family’s ranch in Uruguay.
Barbour is famous for its proprietary waterproof wax treatment on its coat – but that’s not all. Last year, the label celebrated its 100th year of re-waxing, a service designed to help extend the lifespan of their products, which tie in nicely with Chloe’s focus on sustainability under creative director Gabriela Hearst.
The eight-piece Chloe x Barbour collection begins, as you would expect, with three outerwear designs; a coat and shorter jacket, which both feature Chloe’s signature ruffles, as well as a knee-length hooded cape. There’s also a small selection of accessories, including the recently revived Edith doctor bag (in medium and large), a bucket hat, a silk square scarf and combat boots, with Barbour’s familiar tartan motif serving as a central theme.
With the holiday season underway, we imagine this collection will prove useful when travelling, especially in wintry conditions. The collection is now available on luxury e-tailer Matches Fashion before it becomes available at Chloe boutiques and Barbour’s website later this month. Check out the full line-up below.
