History of the Parka Jacket

 

The parka (or Anorak I should say) is known for its heavy weight, big hood, drawstrings and fur lining.

Originally invented by the Eskimo people from the Arctic region, the parka jacket has become a very desirable fashion item found in wardrobes of many as an essential winter garment.   

It didn't appear in England until 1924, eventually being made from nylon and then poplin (a rich luxury fabric) in 1959 where it finally featured in Vogue. It was then, that the parka jacket became a desirable fashion item.

 

Then there was the “fishtail parka” which was first used by the United States Army in 1951. This particular parka was known for the back being longer than the front (hence why it was called fishtail).

By the 1960s the fishtail parka jacket was a prime symbol for the mod-subculture. Due to the fact that it was affordable, very available and practical, it was seen as the ideal jacket to protect the smarter clothes worn underneath.     

 

Overall I would say that doing this project has helped me in a great deal to gain a better understanding of fashion terminology and how garments are constructed to perform well to their chosen purpose. I would also like to say that the parka jacket is a flexible item as it can be worn on many different things. Plus it never fails it purpose to keep warm in the winter making it a sought-after winter essential.