Micro Trends We Love: Fisherman Core

Fisherman - A Legacy on the Sea

The world of nautical wear is steeped in history, reflecting the enduring spirit of the many fisherman, sailors and explorers who have braved our vast oceans.

Their clothing, designed to withstand the elements, has transcended its original purpose, becoming a staple in everyday fashion - particularly now with the emergence of Fisherman Core!

Known for its practicality, warmth and durability, fisherman/nautical clothing embodies an admirable, carefree simplicity. Fisherman in the North Atlantic have long worn woollen garments thought to have been introduced by the vikings when settling on the coasts of Scotland, Ireland and Northern France. Used for its warmth as well as the lanolin oil naturally found within it's fibres, which gave wool a somewhat natural water-resistance, this wool knitwear became essential. Often produced amongst small island communities - each with their own unique characteristics - think Aran, Shetland, Gurnsey and Fairisle - modern fisherman jumpers have their roots in the 1800s where they were sold and commercialised outside of these small communities.

We often think of fisherman's clothing in shades of blue as well as stripes - see our History of the Breton Stripe Blog here - however these beloved styles have, like all things, diversified over the years.

The Fisherman Jacket

From the very early days of seafaring, fishermen have sought ways to stay dry and warm amidst unpredictable weather conditions. One of the earliest innovations in nautical outerwear was the oil-treated cloth jacket. Crafted by treating fabric with resin or fat, which in turn created a barrier that repelled water and kept the wearer's woollen clothing dry beneath, these were initially produced in muted tones. As dying techniques progressed, however, they began to appear in the brighter hues of orange, yellow, and red with which we may first think of today. For fisherman of course, the colour development meant enhanced visibility if a sailor fell overboard.

Despite the practical benefits, traditional oil cloth jackets had their drawbacks - namely their smell and degradation over time. As technology advanced, oil cloth was eventually replaced with rubberized cotton parkas, offering a more durable and less odorous alternative!

From Fisherman to The Navy

When it comes to the Navy, we see perhaps the most influential of all military institutions - at least in men's dress - on clothing and its adaption into modern day wear. Whilst Naval organisations existed throughout Europe from as early as the 1500s, uniforms weren't introduced until much later. And their influence on fashion? Almost immediate, from pea coats to bridge coats and blazers.

What is perhaps most interesting, is that all of the styles many of us have adopted or indeed think of when fisherman aesthetic is mentioned, are an amalgamation of uniform pieces from all over the world:

Peacoat - Referring originally to the Dutch cloth is was manufactured from - Pije - it was mentioned in manuals as far back at 1720.

Bridgecoat - An officers jacket with two patch pockets and epaulets to the shoulder often denoting rank. 

Duffle Coat - A hooded overcoat with toggle fastenings, named after the town in Belgium in which the fabric was originally produced. Issued to sailors in the first world war as cold weather clothing.

The Ultimate Explorer

While wool beanies or watch caps have been a staple of fisherman and seafarer's for years, more modern styles are often based upon the US Navy's Watch Caps - with their flattened top and ridged fisherman knit.

Of course, when thinking of colourful beanies and the sea, it is hard not to think of Jacques Cousteau, whose personal style was as distinctive as his contributions to marine science. His iconic look, often featuring a red watch cap and blue chambray shirt, has become synonymous with his adventurous spirit. This simple yet stylish ensemble is widely recognised and has been embraced by fashion enthusiasts as a symbol of curiosity and exploration.

And we would be remiss if we didn't mention Deck shoes or wellies! Created to provide sailors with a firm grip on wet surfaces, both are an enduring fashion staple for street style, festivals and beyond. The deck shoe, made from water-resistant leather and featuring non-slip soles, are as practical on land as they are at sea. Whilst wellies, a traditional rubber boot which kept ankles warm as well as dry, remain a favourite for winter walks and muddy fields.