Sea of green: how to vary a classic

I have a tricky relationship with Parkas. People will kill me for saying it, but I originally thought the sage green parka is a little bit of a Mod cliche. Nevertheless, I can’t help but feel a slight hint of warmth when I see a decent-looking one belonging to a true fan, covered in badges and looking the business. Especially if there’s a decent suit underneath. Parkas have a special place in the heart of every Mod, young and old and that’s the truth.

PARKAS: A PRIMER

• M-51: “Military 1951” - standardised for the Korean War. Composed of three detachable parts; outer shell, synthetic fur lining and hood lining. Distinctive “fishtail” back with tie strings.​

• M-65: “Military 1965” - standardised features similar to M-51, but with removable quilted liner and a completely detachabland synthetic fur-lined hood.

M51

M65

I admit I have never had a classic green M65 so worn by Jimmy in Quadrophenia. Indeed, it just so happens that I am without a Parka at all at the moment. But it’s okay - the stylish creativity that ought to be the priority of Mod is at work now in the world of the Parka.

Now, I have to boost up my favourite Mod shop Jump the Gun here: my old Parka was one of JTG’s slick black M51, with a golden Vespa badge on one sleeve. But my other two favourite examples of this are the cover of Oasis’ Be Here Now album, picturing Liam Gallagher in a smart chocolate brown M-51 and Pretty Green’s Lansdowne parka; navy blue with a fur hood. Both are strong looks that keep with the Parka tradition without losing you in the sea of green.

If you’ve got any other strong examples of a new Parka, post ‘em here or on twitter or fb!

Lansdowne (Pretty Green Winter Collection 2015)