I recently noticed that there are more chances to pick up OK 40 to wear these days.

The photo is an OK40 from 2013S/S,  the latest version of seldom seen POST O’ALLS’ 2 pocket jacket variations.

In the vintage world, 2 pocket work jackets are also relatively scarce…many of survived examples are from during WW2 period.  They were made under War Restrictions – for saving materials due to the wartime shortage.

 There are also prewar 2 pocket jackets exist, but they are usually budget variants of more popular 4 or 3 pocket models.

 So, many manufacturers started coming up with their own version of stripped-down 2 pocket jackets during wartime….

 

This example is from OSHKOSH, from WW2.  This is actually OK40’s main inspiration.

 

The collar…… is borrowed from its regular prewar 4 pocket brethren. This ” open ” style collar gained its popularity by the end of 30s….replacing previous “ chinstrap “ style.

 

The button…..is swivel type in brass material….unlikely for wartime model….is also same as prewar model.  Many brands used plainer open-top (AKA Donut-style) or even generic wreath design without logo during that period.

 

Has only 2 below pockets. Looks like they simply took off upper pockets. Some models from some brands have upper left and lower right pocket, or some other combinations,,,,but most have lower 2 pockets like this.

 

In many cases, they switched to simpler cuff styles during the restriction, but this OSHKOSH still retains its Engineers’ cuffs from its prewar model.

There are many variations in these wartime models…it is an interesting category by itself.

 

 I didn’t include OK40 in our current 2014S/S list….but starting to feel like I should….( Takeshi )

 

P.S.

 

Discovered a cool piece……I bet it is about 10 years old.

 

I remember I stole this cool pocket idea from a sample bag I bought at a vintage store named SPEC’S in Shibuya …..the brand was possibly 70s R.E.I. Coop or something….I don’t remember exactly….where is that sample anyway?

 

Here’s another one….feeling like Hunting sort of jacket these days…

 

I found this jacket deadstocked….at old store in Jersey long time ago, along with many other interesting old stuff – denim, workwear, sneakers….. and outdoor wear ( which is pretty rare in Jersey ).

 

What separate this jacket from others except being fairy old – at least from ’40s –  is, it has tone – on – tone different fabric for collar….the shell is olive poplin and collar is olive bedford cord ( Pique).  As you know,  it is more common to see them with contrasting corduroy collar, or self fabric.

It is a welcome plus, especially for those who does not want to bother with unwanted colors in a garment,  which usually only limits the cordination flexibity.

 

Chest pocket.  These “pocket – over – pocket”  is always a plus.

 

Inside.  Game pocket can be reached from two long welt openings on back of each fronts.

 

Front opening close- up.  What is underneith the label?

 

It is a sand paper set under the goat skin holder……for liting matches!

 

Lower pocket.  A center seam separates it in two rooms.  A typical pre-war detail.

 

Back is rather plain, with understated game openings on sides.

( Takeshi )

 

P.S.

I bought this book recently…..I had one when I was a kid.

 

I was amazed that it is still available…..

 

This jacket came to me after…..several years’ wait.  My friend finally felt like to part with it…..good for me!

 

 Looks like a Hunting jacket…..

 

 with a typical front entry for game pocket.

 

 Yet…

 

 Yet NO game pocket on butt!!!  Thus, no side entry, neither.

Its entire fronts serve as pockets… which is, practically similar to our Royal Traveler construction.

 

So, it is actually not for hunting, I suspect it is made by hunting jacket manufacturer using their existing fabric and machinery and patterns less game pocket….for weekend wear or sort.

 

 Nice little label.

 

I have been thinking about making Royak Traveler Jacket for a while….I want a Traveler jacket which looks like it borrowed a lot from hunting / outdoor clothes, yet it stands on its own  as  a good jacket for daily use and travel.

 

Only 6 weeks left for 2014 S/S show…….  ( Takeshi )

 

 P.S. 

Cool book…..70s New York is always a huge inspiration to me…..

 

Great book.  It  is a culture itsef.

 

Here’s NEW from fake department….

 

 

 

( Takeshi )