Let’s dig into the always practical men’s safari jacket. Whether or not you’re headed into the bush, it may just be your new menswear essential to consider.
I have a theory about this club we call “menswear classics.” Almost every garment that’s ever come along in history applies to get into this club. The ones most likely to make it often have two important characteristics.
First, they’ll have originated in the army. This gives them practical street cred and a cool factor that appeals to every man that played with toy soldiers as a boy. Second, they’ll be cosigned by the upper crust or creative class.
Enter the safari jacket for men.
You might be a fashion guy, or you might be a practicalist. Either way, I highly recommend considering a safari jacket for your rotation.
What Is a Safari Jacket?
Also known as a men’s bush jacket, a safari jacket is a lightweight piece of outerwear, often made with poplin or cotton drill. Poplin features a vertical warp (the lengthwise weave) and a horizontal weft (the crosswise weave). Cotton drill has an extra strong diagonal weave.
Basically, a safari jacket is meant to be durable but lightweight. This is because it was worn by European soldiers in the 1800s who were sent to warm environments. They continued to wear this garment well into World War II.
The bush jacket is equipped with epaulets, which are the ornamental strap-and-buttons on the shoulders that many trench coats also have, a belt, a collar, loops for cartridges, chest pockets, and large below pockets.
They’re usually khaki in color or a dusty, earthy green.
Lighter, less tactical versions are often called shackets, a portmanteau of shirt and jacket.
Well-to-do men wore lightweight safari jackets on, you guessed it, safari or during big game hunts. In the 1960s and ‘70s, high fashion designers incorporated the look into collections, adding a luxury undertone.
Who Can Wear a Safari Jacket?
Literally anyone, regardless of your personal style, can incorporate a safari jacket into their rotation. You can even wear them in any dress code outside of highly formal ones.
Here’s why.
If you love workwear, a safari jacket is perfect for you. The multi-pocket look goes naturally with other utilitarian pieces and basically any style of boot.
And this is regardless of how you incorporate workwear into your look. For example, if you like a vintage rebel aesthetic, a safari jacket can be styled the same way a leather jacket can. It just adds a more practical look rather than an urban one.
For you artsier gents, think about it this way: If you can add combat boots to your fashion-forward, downtown look, safari jackets are equally as fun and simple to incorporate.
It’s funny to think that a garment that can easily be styled with a blue collar chic vibe as well as an artsy sensibility can also work with classic and old money looks too.
But, outside of the army, that’s probably one of the most organic ways to wear a bush jacket. It’s structured and can replace the harder architecture of a suit jacket when a gentleman is off-duty.
And if you’re just a practicalist, a safari jacket is a perfect protective layer during the summer, or whenever it’s chilly but not too cold, or if you need a spring jacket. It can also be worn open or closed, so it’s just an easy addition to your wardrobe.
How to Style Men’s Safari Jackets
First of all, you can just throw a safari jacket over a t-shirt and jeans, and you’ve instantly leveled it up. This also goes for a button-down and chinos.
So, just by virtue of that, it takes zero effort to style a safari jacket.
They also look great over a suit. They’re light enough that you don’t have to take them off when you’re indoors if you don’t want to. And they add a rugged handsomeness without taking away from the suit’s class.
If you’re wearing a bright suit, say blue with a patterned tie, a khaki safari jacket will ground the look. But it’s also a nod to the fact you’re doing some fun stuff with a formal template.
Also, don’t fear layers and textures. Cable-knit, tweed, and vests will come together beautifully with a bush jacket over it. You’ll look like an English gentleman ready for an outdoor walk or picnic.
You can always modernize your safari jacket by using layers. For a workwear or streetwear approach, wear a zip-up underneath the jacket. Cinch the look with jeans and a beanie.
A good modern, smart casual approach might be going for a turtleneck and slacks. Or a tieless dress shirt with a v-neck vest and slacks.
Depending on where you’re going, you might finish this outfit off with low-profile white
Most safari jackets come in a neutral color. As such, you can have fun with the colors of the rest of your outfit. However, if you really want to wear it classically, stick to earth tones and neutrals.
It won’t be boring because the safari jacket adds architecture and dimension.
FAQs
Here are some common questions regarding bush jackets!
What Is the Difference Between a Field Jacket and a Safari Jacket?
A field jacket is heavier than a safari jacket. They have a similar exterior, with several pockets and a collar. However, a safari jacket is lightly-woven, usually with cotton, while a field jacket can be made of any heavy performance material and may even have a lining.
Are Safari Jackets in Style?
Safari jackets are classics and always relevant. In the age of old money aesthetic, they’re more popular than usual, but they never look out of touch.
What Are Other Names for a Safari Jacket?
Safari jackets are also called bush jackets and jungle jackets.
Conclusion: Give a Safari Jacket a Shot!
Now you know how universal this essential is!
As a minimalist, I don’t use the term “essential” lightly, either.
These days, they even come in more colors than just army green and khaki. A black safari jacket has a modern vibe, while a navy one is still practical-looking but a touch more unique than the standard.
Have you ever worn a safari jacket? Would you consider one after reading this article? Let us know in the comments! We love hearing from you.
