The Return of Barbour Jackets: How TV Shows Like The Gentlemen and Rivals Are Reviving This Classic British Staple

There’s a new-old favourite in fashion: the Barbour Wax jacket. Known for its rugged durability, waterproof wax coating, and classic British appeal, the Barbour jacket has found its way back into wardrobes worldwide. Thanks to prominent appearances in hit TV series like Netflix’s The Gentlemen and Disney+’s adaptation of Jilly Cooper’s Rivals, Barbour is capturing audiences’ attention in a fresh, modern light. But what’s fuelling this resurgence, and why does the jacket fit so seamlessly into these shows? Let’s dive into the Barbour jacket’s journey back to the screens and wardrobes.

A Classic with New Drama: Barbour in The Gentlemen

Netflix’s The Gentlemen, a stylish spin-off of Guy Ritchie’s 2019 film, showcases the British underworld with a mix of modern grit and classic style. The show brings gangster bravado together with high-end taste, and Barbour jackets fit right into this gritty, high-style aesthetic. The Gentlemen takes place in both urban and rural settings, with characters often oscillating between high-stakes business dealings and muddy countryside confrontations. Barbour jackets, with their rugged durability and refined tailoring, suit this dual setting perfectly.

As characters navigate England’s criminal underbelly in their waxed, well-worn jackets, viewers can’t help but be drawn to the jackets’ understated style—subtly rebellious and effortlessly cool. This portrayal highlights Barbour's versatility, fitting seamlessly between social classes and settings. After all, a Barbour jacket feels as natural on a city street as it does on a country lane, complementing The Gentlemen’s balance of sophistication and grit.

A Slice of British High Society: Rivals and the Barbour Connection

Disney+’s adaptation of Rivals, based on Jilly Cooper’s 1988 novel, taps into Britain’s posh socialite scene. Set in the wealthy English countryside, Rivals delves into the personal and professional entanglements of the rich and glamorous, which is prime Barbour territory. Known as the unofficial uniform of the British upper class, Barbour jackets have been a staple of English countryside style for decades.

The characters in Rivals, with their horse-riding, estate-owning lifestyles, embody this aesthetic effortlessly. Whether they’re strolling around the estate or preparing for equestrian events, the Barbour jacket’s country charm and timeless elegance add authenticity to their wardrobes, capturing the world Cooper described in her novel. Rivals has reminded audiences of the quintessential countryside look that defined British aristocracy—and how Barbour jackets are still part of this heritage.

Other Recent TV Influences on Barbour’s Comeback

While The Gentlemen and Rivals are leading the charge, they join other popular series that have propelled the Barbour brand back into fashion:

• Succession: The hit series about the ultra-wealthy Roy family has done wonders for “stealth wealth” fashion—clothing that is high-quality and luxurious without overt branding. Characters like Kendall and Shiv Roy wear subtle but impeccably tailored outdoor wear, including Barbour jackets, capturing understated sophistication that appeals to affluent viewers.

• The Crown: In earlier seasons, members of the royal family—particularly Queen Elizabeth and Princess Diana—are often seen wearing Barbour jackets on their estates, reinforcing the brand’s association with British royalty and high society, and appealing to those who appreciate heritage and elegance.

• Peaky Blinders: While Barbour jackets aren’t directly featured, the show’s portrayal of gritty, working-class England has revitalized interest in traditional British workwear. This rugged style has reminded viewers of heritage brands like Barbour, especially as functional outerwear becomes increasingly popular in fashion.

Why Barbour Jackets Are Back in Style

What’s behind this Barbour resurgence? The timing of this trend speaks to several factors.

1. Heritage Appeal: In an era where consumers value authenticity and craftsmanship, Barbour jackets represent British heritage. Built to last, the waxed fabric ages gracefully, adding character over time. Viewers appreciate this in shows where high-society characters and hardened criminals alike wear Barbour, making the brand feel timeless and versatile.

2. Quality and Sustainability: Barbour’s focus on durable, long-lasting pieces resonates with today’s shift toward sustainable fashion. TV shows have tapped into this desire by featuring timeless pieces, suggesting a refined, practical style that resonates with audiences who want quality over quantity.

3. “Stealth Wealth” and Minimalism: Thanks to shows like Succession, the concept of “stealth wealth”—luxury without the flash—is on the rise. Barbour jackets align perfectly with this philosophy as they’re iconic without being loud, suggesting sophistication and substance. This reflects today’s taste for minimalist yet high-quality wardrobes.

How to Style Your Own Barbour Look

If you’re looking to channel the effortless cool of The Gentlemen or the countryside elegance of Rivals, here are a few styling tips:

• For an Urban Look: Pair a Barbour jacket with dark jeans, a classic white T-shirt, and Chelsea boots for a city-ready look that’s casual yet sophisticated. This style, often favoured by characters in The Gentlemen, is modern and understated.

• For a Countryside-Inspired Outfit: Embrace the Rivals style with a turtleneck sweater, riding boots, and slim trousers. Add a scarf for that extra touch of English charm, perfect for an outdoor stroll.

• Layer It Up: Barbour jackets are perfect for layering. Try a sweater or blazer underneath, depending on the season, and add a wool scarf for texture and warmth.

The Enduring Appeal of Barbour

Barbour jackets have reclaimed their place in modern fashion thanks to the recent wave of TV series celebrating their style and heritage. With shows like The Gentlemen and Rivals rekindling our love for the iconic waxed jacket, Barbour has proven it’s more than just outerwear—it’s a cultural staple, bridging different worlds with a single timeless design. Whether you’re inspired by British high society or rugged street style, a Barbour jacket makes a statement that’s simultaneously understated and iconic.

So, next time you’re looking for outerwear with depth, heritage, and undeniable style, reach for a Barbour jacket—and join the ranks of those who appreciate fashion that transcends time and trends.

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