This post is sponsored by Barbour in honor of their 125th anniversary!
Barbour Jacket (c/o Barbour–wearing US size 4. Liner vest also available for extra warmth! ), Jeans (Run TTS–wearing size 25), Sweater (TTS, wearing small), Sunglasses, Similar Chelsea Boots
By the time you read this, I THINK we should have made it to Spain by now! ?Fingers crossed that we had an uneventful flight! (Knowing us, we took full advantage of the “free wine” international flight policy and cried laughing for a full 7 hours binge-listening to our hilarious favorite podcast.)
Today, I am SO excited to be teaming up with another one of my favorite brands–Barbour–to celebrate their 125th anniversary! Did you know that they are still a family-owned brand, five generations later? Being a history nerd, I think the heritage of the brand has always been something that I was drawn to.
One particular piece of Barbour history stood out to me though–that I didn’t know until I watched this beautifully done film on the brand. (Which I’d highly recommend watching!) And that is the total girl boss story of Dame Margaret Barbour in particular. (Can she write a memoir, please?)
Quick History
A few years after they fell in love and were married–John (the then fourth-generation Barbour), died suddenly at the age of 29, leaving her a very young widowed, single parent. As a teacher (note, she did not become Dame Margaret until later on in life!) she had no business background, and no involvement in the business at the time of his death. Determined to carry on his legacy, she stepped in, immersing herself in every aspect of the business. From learning how to make jackets to working the storeroom, answering the phones, meeting with customers in the field–you name it. She threw herself into it. Eventually, she became the force that is responsible for turning the Barbour jacket into the fashion icon that it is today.
I have always adored the brand, and working with them over the years has always been a career highlight of mine, but I was especially touched and felt even more drawn to them after hearing her story.
So, to bring this full circle–to celebrate their 125th anniversary, Barbour released a special collection of jackets, and reached out to me (!) to ask if I would wear one of them to help promote the occasion. (Isn’t that such an honor!?)
So in this post today, I am excited to tell you ALL about this amazing jacket–
the ladies Beaufort jacket
If the name “Beaufort jacket” sounds familiar to you, that’s because it’s one of the most iconic men’s Barbour jackets. Originally cut for shooting, they are a relaxed fit and have a TON of pockets. You will never need to carry a purse when you have this jacket on–it fits everything!
And guess who it was designed by? My girl–DAME MARGARET. ?? It turns out, she was inspired on a trip to France in the 1970’s–and designed this jacket as a result! It was later worn by Helen Mirren in her role in The Queen. ??
This newly-released Beaufort that I’m wearing here is based on that same classic design she created, with some slightly updated, feminine twists–like beautiful gold hardware and tartan cuff (which is optional–you can turn it up or leave it down if you prefer) with velvet detailing. It truly is a beautiful jacket. If you’ve loved the look of a classic Barbour but wanted something with a little bit more pizazz, this is definitely your coat!
When I wear this jacket, I feel like I’m channeling my inner Dame Margaret Barbour, and that feels pretty special! ?
How does it compare to other Barbour coats?
I know that’s probably exactly what you’re thinking, so I’ll list some similarities and differences between this and the Beadnell, which is the other classic Barbour I own. (I have both a waxed and a quilted Beadnell. For these purposes, we’ll compare to the waxed version as that’s the most similar and most popular!)
Similarities:
This jacket has the same waxed coating that makes it an essential tool for braving all sorts of weather. It is the “Sage” color (i.e. a deep blue-green) that is a classic Barbour color. The Beadnell, for example, also comes in sage depending on the retailer you choose to purchase from. Like many Barbour jackets, it has the ability to add a zip-in liner, as well as a snap-on hood. It also has the fantastic slanted “hand warming pockets” that you expect from Barbour–ensuring no cold wind touches your hands!
Distinguishing factors:
The design details listed above are really what set this jacket apart and make it different than other classic Barbour coats, but here are some other notable differences vs. the Beadnell:
First, is the design–which is much roomier than the Beadnell, for example. Whereas the Beadnell is cut to be form-fitting, the Beadnell is designed to be more of a relaxed, longer fit.
In terms of warmth, I think that it happens to be warmer than the Beadnell, especially if you choose to purchase a zip-in liner (pictured below–which also happen to be adorable when worn alone as a vest!)
Another warm differentiator is that it has super cozy sleeve details that ensure no cold air gets in through your sleeves! (Basically, like sweater cuffs that are attached to the coat!) Due to these differences and the fact that the jacket is a special edition, the price tag is higher. It’s at $545 for the Beaufort and $414 for the Beadnell.
Is there a right or wrong choice? Of course not! Any Barbour jacket is a fantastic jacket–but I hope this helps decide which one is best for you!
Huge thanks to Barbour for including me in your 125th Anniversary Celebration and for sponsoring this post. It’s always such an honor to work with you! And thank YOU, my main gals, for supporting the brands that help keep this blog up and running!
More questions on Barbour coats? Slide into my DMs and ask away! ?
