“I was influenced into buying my first Barbour jacket after my fashionable flatmate and Kate Middleton both made a serious case for the coat,” Wu says. “My first was a Beadnell Polarquilt in Burgundy, which I bought for a winter holiday exploring the Grand Canyon. I wanted something unfussy and warm but still kind of fashionable, and I found it delivered. What I missed, however, was the ability to layer, as the jacket, though true to size, was pretty snug.”
The Highclere waxed jacket reminded Wu of Middleton’s Defence wax jacket but roomier. Some days, she just wants to ditch her ankle-length parka, so having an insulating coat that can accommodate bulkier layers (like her favorite pillow-y Sézane sweaters) is a must in her winter wardrobe. She would wear it with layers when temps drop to the low 30s.
Unlike the traditional wax jackets, this one comes with a detachable hood, anchored by a slew of discrete gold buttons under the signature corduroy collar/ The two front flap pockets are ginormous, with the addition of an inner zip pocket and two side pockets nested behind the flap pockets.
“I do miss the kangaroo pockets found on my Polarquilt coat, but they’re something I can do without,” Wu says. “What really drew me to the brand’s wax jackets was that Barbour is committed to the longevity of their products. The wax jackets can be sent back to the brand for re-waxing, helping to preserve the water-repellent quality of the cotton fabric.”
Fast Facts
- Temperature Rating: N/A
- Insulation Materials: N/A
- Size Range: US 2 to 16
- Care/Cleaning: sponge clean only
- Waterproof: water repellant
