Leather Jackets

Leather jackets have gained iconic status. They are generally gray, black or brown in color. Today, the leather jacket is not only outerwear which provides comfort during winters, it has been connected to various subcultures and even complete lifestyles. One of its best uses is the intimidating appearance it offers to the wearer.

A leather jacket can be styled in many different ways and be associated with various lifestyles, professions and people. Leather jackets are a common feature among bikers, people in the army, navy and air force, policemen and outlaws.

The jackets come in many forms and styles like classic, motorcycle, bomber, leather blazer, scooter and racing jackets. Waterproof reversible leather jackets are also available. The waterproof jackets can be used as raincoats

Leather jackets are available in many materials, including buckskin, chamois, calfskin, goatskin, lizard skin, pigskin, ostrich, suede and cowhide.

Leather jackets are generally buttoned or zippered. The number of buttons available may differ. Also, leather jackets are available in hip length and waist length sizes. Leather jackets are also available in trenchcoats. Collarless leather jackets are also available. Leather jackets are available in many colors, though the most famous remain various shades of brown and black.

Leather jackets first gained popularity in the 1950s, when they were worn by two of the movies' most dazzling portrayals of machismo, by Marlon Brando as Johnny Strabler in 'The Wild One' and 'Rebel Without a Cause'. The leather jacket was later worn by other actors, and it became a famous pop icon.

The leather jacket once more won a place of honor when it was donned by Arnold Schwarzenegger in 'The Terminator'. Arnold's character supposedly stole the jacket from a Hell's Angel.

Leather jackets have been used by many other celebrities and in the world of entertainment to show off a level of machismo. Brad Pitt wore it to fall into his role in 'Snatch,' Johnny Depp wore one as 'Donnie Brasco' and Vin Diesel donned one for 'XXX'.

There are two types of leather jackets, fashion and utility. The utility leather jackets offer protection to the wearer, while the fashion leather jackets do not offer as much security as a utility leather jacket would.

Leather jackets come in a number of designs and go through various processes to add a distinct taste to the rugged leather. The leather is sometimes distressed, waxed or embossed to imitate crocodile, alligator or snakeskin. Some leather jackets are fur-trimmed or fringed. Leather jackets are also available in single, double-breasted and simple styles.

Leather has always been associated with extremes. While being used by many as a way of displaying their attitude, it has sometimes been used to display authority and lifestyle. Other leather clothing and accessories are available, including pants, chaps, shoes, boots, wristwatches, chokers, collars, chains, cuffs, hats and helmets. Some of the major brands making leather jackets include Schott, Andrew Marc and Jhane Barnes.

Classy Leather Jackets and Blazers

Possessing a classy leather jacket has become a symbol of status amongst the teenagers. You have plenty of choices in choosing these jackets and blazers. You can find classy leather jackets and classy leather blazers in various colors like black, red, gray, brown etc. Brown and black shades are the most popular shades when it comes to the color selection of leather jackets and blazers. You should not consider use of these jackets and blazers as a tool of protection in particular season. Wearing of these classy jackets and classy blazers gives an intimidating appearance to the person wearing it.

There are many ways in which a classy leather jacket can be styled. Classy leather jackets are popular mainly amongst bikers, personnel serving in the various arms of the Defense Services, college students and tourists.

Leather jackets and leather blazers can be classified in different categories either on the basis of purpose they are worn or on the basis of material they are made from. Some of the categories of jackets and blazers are

oClassic Leather Jacket

oClassic Leather Blazer

oLeather Motorcycle jacket

oBomber/flight leather blazer/jacket

oRacing and scooter jackets

oLeather waterproof jackets

You can find classy leather jackets and classy leather blazers made up of different types of leathers like suede, buckskin, cowhide, goatskin, ostrich skin, lizard skin and pigskin.

Usually you find leather jackets either with a zip or with buttons. Classy Leather jackets and classy leather blazers are available in different sizes. On the basis of length size these jackets and blazers are subcategorized as waist length size jackets and hip length size blazers. You can find these leather jackets and blazers in the market in different styles like trench-coat and collarless patterns.

Leather jackets gained its popularity mainly during 1950 after it was worn by famous movie star Marlon Brando in two movies. The other contemporary actors followed the suit and add to the popularity of leather jackets. Teenagers are very keen to imitate their filmy idols. This aspect helped in achieving more popularity for the leather jackets when it was worn by Arnold Schwarzenegger in one of his movie. Wearing a classy leather jacket or classy leather blazer is considered as a tool to show off machismo.

It is a fact that leather jackets and classy leather blazers are worn either as a fashion or as a garment which offers protection. Though leather jackets are mainly popular among men, women are no exception for their vouch for these classy leather jackets and classy leather blazers. Usually women wear these classy leather blazers to symbolize manliness and machismo. This factor has made the leather jackets a way of displaying life style, personality and attitude in the world of fashion.

As a woman, you have a wide range of classy leather blazers and classy leather jackets to choose like single and double breasted, without collars, close collars or open collars. There are number of designs of leather jackets which add to the beauty of woman. Some of the popular designs of leather jackets amongst women are suede leather jackets, classy leather blazers, overcoats, classy leather jackets, outwears and reversible jackets. Many leather jackets are embossed to make these classy leather blazers and classy leather jackets to make them more attractive and lure more and more customers. Embossing patterns like Crocodile, snakeskin and alligator are more popular.

Crowd Control Barricade Jackets - Security With Style

Introduction

Steel barricades accessorized with vinyl jackets are becoming an increasingly common sight at venues and events nationwide. When they feature jackets (also sometimes called covers), crowd control barriers not only serve their practical purpose, but also function as an effective marketing or communications tool.

Attendees of major sporting or concert events have likely seen barricade jackets which feature the sports team's (or league's) logo, or the logo of a major sponsoring corporation. But, as a company which has produced custom-fit barrier jackets for nearly 15 years, we have learned that this is far from a "one size fits all" market. From basic to sophisticated, a number of different jacket styles and sizes (as well as extra signage options) have found favor with customers depending upon their specific message needs.

This article will help those who are considering using barricade jackets understand the range of options available, and the most frequent uses of specific options. This knowledge will help you make the best decision about an effective barrier jacket style for your site.

Printed Jackets

As cited earlier, the most popular style of barrier jacket is one printed with a logo, or with a worded message. Text or logos can be placed anywhere on a jacket. When jackets are printed using the latest technology and attention to detail, the end result is attractive artwork that conveys a professional, market-focused image. A logo calls attention to the "visual identity" of a company or event. Thus, a barrier jacket compliments other, more traditional marketing/promotional activities.

The "Bleed Ad" variation of printed jackets enables the jacket to act as a billboard for a more detailed advertising message. On a standard printed jacket, the logo or message will be contained within a defined color border along the top and sides of the jacket. On bleed ad jackets, the photographic/graphic image spans the entire height and width of jacket, with no border.

Size variations

While the standard printed jacket will cover the entire barrier frame (leaving only the bases and hooks exposed), the "Picture Frame" style leaves the top, bottom and sides of the frame exposed. These four outer steel frames of barrier serve as picture frame for message. The material is pulled tight on all four sides of barrier with tie-wraps. This effect creates distinct visual impact, at less cost than full-size jacket.

More coverage is accomplished with a "Ground Length" jacket, which stretches below the bottom frame of the barrier to the ground. This size works most ideally with barriers that have flat bases. The benefits of a ground length jacket are two-fold: it increases available message space by 30%, and it will visually block anything (particularly any material hidden or stored) on the ground behind the barricade.

The "Extra-Wide Billboard" jacket covers both the barrier frames and the hooks. While this option also increases the potential size of the message, it (unlike other options) eliminates the barrier's ability to interlock. Using this option also requires extra anchoring when used in windy conditions.

Solid Color Jackets

Even with the option of printing logos or messages on jackets, some sites prefer to spruce up their barriers with a simple color jacket. Why? The goal of a jacket in a single solid color (which is how the first barrier jackets were produced in the mid-1980s) is straightforward - to make barriers more colorful and attractive. It is an aesthetic solution, rather than a marketing one. Single color jackets result in more attractive barriers, without the expense or logistical work necessary to produce a printed jacket.

Two-color jackets go one step beyond this. Uniform solid blocks of color (either horizontally or vertically) can match an event's color scheme, or match the colors of a team or sponsor. Additionally, using a light color for the top of a two-color horizontal arrangement stretches horizontal perspective and calls less attention to a barricade.

Sign Options

Many venues which use solid color jackets do so because they want to use the barriers to convey simple directional or instructional messages which are attached to the jacket via hook-and-loop fastener. "Parking," "Exit," and "Season Ticket Holders Only" are some examples of wording which is placed on a jacket. Directional arrows are also often utilized to point patrons in the right direction.

Signs can also be attached to a jacket with fastener. Such signs (which can be any size or shape) enable a site to easily change any message it wants to convey throughout an event without having to change the barrier jacket.

The "Mini-Wrap" sign option covers one side of a barricade. Consisting of larger material, a mini-wrap can be used over both jacketed and non-jacketed barriers, resulting in another way to easily change or alternate logos, other sign messages.

Conclusion

Barrier jacket options have increased substantially over the last 20 years, from single color to elaborate designs. Now, a number of different barricade jacket sizes and styles exist to serve a wide span of applications for differing events or venues. Because of their attractive and pervasive marketing potential, multi-color covers featuring logos or advertising messages continue to increase in popularity. Knowing all of today's options will help your site choose the jackets which will most effectively increase the value of your steel barricades.

Murray Bilby is president of The Tamis Corporation, parent company of Blockader Barrier Jackets Barrierjackets.com He has been involved in improving the process of producing jackets for crowd control barricades for over 15 years.

Indian Designer Bandhgala Jacket or a Nehru Suit Jacket

The Nehru Suit Jacket has been named as one of the must-haves for a man's wardrobe. This is a garment that oozes style and makes a man look extremely elegant.

The Nehru Jacket, as the name implies, was made popular by Indian politician Jawaharlal Nehru who was seen sporting one very often. Mr. Nehru often wore a Nehru Suit Jacket for formal and even state visits. The Nehru Coat, as it became commonly known during his time still retains its charm.

Anatomy of a Mens Nehru Jacket

In the most basic form, the Nehru Jacket features a front-buttoned placket and fabric covered large buttons. The Mandarin collar is the defining feature of Mens Nehru Jacket. The jacket is often worn along with a bright coloured pocket square.

A Nehru Suit Jacket is the term used for a Nehru Jacket and Trouser suit. This is similar to the western suit that often features a Jacket and Pants. A pair of trousers matching the Nehru Jacket completes the Nehru Suit.

A longer version of the mandarin collar Jacket is also called a Jodhpuri or a Sherwani Jacket. These are styles that are common in India and are often worn by people of all ages. While the Sherwani is the choice for weddings and more festive events, the Nehru Jacket is worn for formal and festive events. Festivals like Diwali, for which men usually dress us, are times that are popular for the Nehru suit Jacket.

Wearing a Nehru Suit Jacket

In the years gone by, men of distinction used to wear a Nehru suit Jacket in Black colour with a red coloured pocket square for all key official events like important state meetings or even corporate meetings.

The simple and elegant construction of the jacket, along with the fact that this is a versatile style that can be combined with either matching trousers or even be worn as a Blazer, makes this a must have garment for all stylish men. Black is usually a colour that is versatile, and the same is true for the Bandhgala. Chacha Nehru often donned the jacket in lighter and more pastel shades, but these had often been worn as part of a suit and not as a blazer or a stand-alone Jacket.

The Beatles are one of the most famous examples of international audiences admiring the Nehru Suit Jacket. In more recent appearances, important artists like Sting and Tom Jones have opted for the Bandhgala Jacket. The garment is here to stay and with such high profile artists donning the jacket, there is no doubt that the Bandhgala Jacket is indeed an uber-stylish garment. The Nehru Jacket is a must-have for every stylish man.

The Stuff About Ladies Jackets

When people include the term jacket while they are speaking, they are usually speaking about the type of clothes which have long sleeves and which usually cover the body from the part of the neck down to the part of the waist. Today, the term jacket is often used interchangeably with the term coat.

Before the mid-nineteenth century, there were clear differences between a jacket and a coat. It is common for a jacket to be shorter with its length reaching just below the human waist and it is as well lighter.

The term "jacket" derived from the French term "jaquette" which means the coat that a man wears in the morning. The term may as well mean the suit that a lady is suitable to put on, the latter is usually known as ladies jackets. Jackets are usually used to serve as protective clothing. But, besides that purpose, some jackets are also used simply because of the fashionable styles they carry with them.

As what has been mentioned earlier, jackets are also available for ladies and such jackets are usually referred to ladies jackets. Ladies jackets also carry the same characteristics as those carried by men jackets. But there are, of course, some differences in the style to enable people to tell which jackets are to be worn by men and which ones are targeted for the ladies.

Ladies jackets are available in some variations. Arctic jackets are one of them. Arctic jackets are also recognized as the parka while in the UK it is known as an orak. This kind of jacket suits well in very cold climates since it is hooded.

The materials that make up those jackets which are worn by ladies also come in a wide variety to be chosen. Some of them are the silk or satin. The jackets which are made of these materials are suitable to be worn when the ladies are also wearing evening gowns inside.

Another type of ladies jacket available are the jean jackets that are comfortable to wear. To enrich the list of ladies jackets that are already available, manufacturers have invented leather jackets for the ladies to wear. The leather jackets are usually able to give sophisticated as well as luxurious appearance to the ladies who wear them.

Manufacturers have even manufactured the motorcycle jackets for ladies besides men in order to give ladies the necessary protection that they may need while they are driving. Even more, ladies are also offered winter jackets with nylon or microfibers as the main materials to keep them warm. But the range of jackets for ladies does not stop till there.

The fleece jacket is another alternative which is good to wear in the period between winter and fall. To protect the ladies from the rain, there are the rain jackets which commonly possess nylon as the main material and are waterproof besides windproof.

Now, if a lady feels like having business-like appearance, she may choose the blazers which will look even greater when a lady is working in the office.

Ladies can obtain these jackets from quite a few manufacturers on the market. They can even find such jackets from the online manufacturers. They offer the jackets to ladies in a comprehensive list with various brands, colors, sizes and prices. And there are more than one manufacturer that can be found on the internet.

Ladies jackets are available to be purchased at various prices, sizes, shapes and colors. The jackets can also serve ladies' needs for fashion besides protection. The jackets can even be purchased online so it is actually easy for ladies to buy them.

Leather Jackets Through Modern History

While fashion trends are constantly changing and new things come and go, there are certain items that always manage to stay in style. Leather jackets are one of these items. The particular style or cuts that are popular at any time may change. However as whole leather jackets of some sort are always popular. Today the variety available come in such a wide variety that no matter what your style may be, there is a leather jacket that will suit your wardrobe. Of course there are the always popular biker styles and bomber styles, but your options don't stop there. You can find styles for everyday casual wear as well as formal occasions. For the business person, options are even available as part of a formal suit.

The use of leather as a protective article of clothing can be traced back to the cave man who found that they could use smoke to dry the hides of animals. They would use plants that were available to them to help preserve these hides. These hides would then be used as rudimentary articles of clothing which would provide superior warmth and protection compared to those fashioned from plants that were available. In essence, these were the first leather jackets known to man. While these techniques were obviously very crude, they laid the ground work for the advanced techniques used in leather crafting today.

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In modern culture, leather jackets first became popular in the early 1900's with the bomber style jacket worn by aviators and members of the military. These jackets were worn as part of a uniform to help protect against the harsh conditions encountered at high altitudes. These bomber style jackets were valued for both their comfort as well as their durability.

In 1953, the movie "The Wild One" starring Marlon Brando introduced the iconic look of the biker jacket to popular culture. This started a trend tying Hollywood's stars to leather jackets which has been used many times since in movies when portraying a character as "cool". In the years since the release of "The Wild One" we have been given a wide array of memorable lead characters that were all decked out in their jackets of various styles. During the 1970's and 1980's the TV Show "Happy Days" featured one of its main characters "The Fonz" as the icon of what was cool, and of course rarely was "The Fonz" seen on screen without his motorcycle jacket. In 1978 John Travolta wore a leather motorcycle jacket to play the character Danny Zuko in the classic movie "Grease". Of course who can forget Arnold Schwarzenegger in the role of the T-800 in the 1984 smash hit "The Terminator' and its sequels. Harrison Ford donned a brown leather jacket in his portrayal of the iconic character "Indiana Jones" throughout the entire series of movies. The list of Hollywood superstars wearing leather to portray legendary characters goes on and on.

These jackets of course are also much more than a fashionable article of clothing. Leather motorcycle jackets or biker jackets are actually designed to function as a piece of safety equipment to help protect the motorcycle rider. These jackets are typically made of thicker and heavier grade leather in order to protect the rider from the various hazards they can potentially encounter while riding motorcycles. Motorcycle riders value these types of jackets for their protective nature and durable design. Leather motorcycle jackets come in a variety of styles and designs. Some of these leather motorcycle jackets incorporate additional padding or armor in strategic locations throughout the jacket to help protect the rider. This padding is placed in high impact zones in case of the event that the rider loses control of the motorcycle and ends up going down. Many people who do not ride motorcycles also value the motorcycle jacket both for their style as well as the fact that they are very durable and will last for many years of wear.

Many Italian fashion designers have also included leather into their lines of clothing. These jacket designs brought the leather jacket to areas of culture where other designs would not fit in. The variety of Italian designer jackets offers a style of leather to suit almost any occasion and almost any wardrobe. These jackets are available in a wide variety of designs for both men and women. Styles of jackets are available to suit clothing styles ranging from daily casual wear through to formal occasions. While traditionally leather jackets were only available in brown or black, today they can be found in virtually any color or combination of colors desired.

Leather jackets are a timeless article of clothing that have found their way into cultures throughout the world and through history. Like any other article of clothing, styles and designs that are considered fashionable may change from time to time. However leather jackets of varying designs are always in style and a design of leather jacket can be found for any occasion to fit any wardrobe. Leather jackets have certainly evolved and advanced along with the processes used to make them since cave man first learned to fashion animal hides into clothing. Throughout all these changes and advances, leather jackets have always been with us and will continue to be a widely used article of clothing in many forms for the foreseeable future.

Quilted Jackets For Women

This time of year can be tough for those who experience all four seasons. They not only have to deal with those awkward temperature swings but the dwindling daylight as well as the unpredictable rain. These days, some people will wear a stylish outdoor jacket over a plain shirt. Quilted jacket is one of the popular choices because this outfit is such a trendy and classic answer to the winter or fall transitional conundrum. Quilted jackets for women will keep the wearer looking fresh, cozy and dry throughout the winter seasons. This jacket is widely available in the market and loved by many people due to its versatility and comfort.

Quilted jackets for women come in various designs which allow them to be one of the top rated jackets of all time. These outfits are so eye-catching that whoever wears this jacket will be so easily noticed from the rest. Versatility is the perfect word to describe this jacket. These outfits are so soft and light that they can be worn throughout the winter season while engaging in practically any activities including sports. On top of that, one can go on adventure trips while wearing them as an overcoat too. Generally, any shirt's color goes very well with this jacket as this jacket usually has a neutral palette.

There are various kinds of quilted jackets for women in the market, all of which serve slightly different purposes. These jackets are available in a variety of colors such as red. However, dark brown and black would be the most preferred color of all time as these colors trap heat better than any other colors. In addition, jackets with these colors are more easily preserved. Most of these jackets are padded to provide better insulation in cold temperature such as Sweden cotton-padded jacket. Nylon and polyester are the common materials of these jackets as they exhibit excellent jacket toughness. Their main function is to trap heat when extruded over softer insulation materials. Quilted nylon jacket with suede shoulder patch is one of the examples that made of nylon.

Besides winter quilted jackets for women, spring quilted outdoor jackets can be easily purchased from the market too. Quilted coats with long or short sleeves are available as well. Quilted jackets with different features such as denim cotton jacket with fur collar and hooded quilted jacket for women are widely available out there providing consumers a range of options to cope with different weather conditions. In addition, these outfits are usually slim fitting and non-bulky to give the wearer the best look.

Quilted jackets for women allow you to stay on top of fashion while having fun on daily basis without freezing in cold during winter seasons. While purchasing this jacket, one should make sure it fits the wearer perfectly and nicely to prevent any chilly air from passing through the jacket. In short, every woman's wardrobe should be equipped with quilted jackets to stay up to date on fashion trends.

Advertising On Crowd Control Barrier Jackets Come Of Age - Wrap It Up To Promote Your Message

Introduction

About 20 years ago, the steel barrier became the dominant crowd control device. Barriers increasingly became a common sight at parades, sports events, festivals, amusement parks, concerts, and conventions. Savvy companies and event management personnel soon came to the conclusion that barriers, being so noticeable (not to mention so physically close) to large crowds, might double as a marketing/communications tool, as well as a safety tool.

History

The first attempts to accessorize barriers involved the use of banners, which were tied to the barrier itself. However, banners were very susceptible to flapping or sagging, which detracted from the image that companies or events were trying to project.

Technological advancements made it possible for vinyl jackets to be produced at the same cost, and with the same quality, as banners. In the mid-1980s, the first barrier jackets were produced. Initially, the barrier jackets were simply one solid color.

The now-defunct Marineland theme park in California, and SeaWorld San Diego were among the first sites to use color jackets over their barriers. Solid blue-colored jackets not only appropriately matched the theme of these locations, but the jackets also protected the barriers by resisting the inherent moisture in these environments. Other sites soon began employing barrier covers for the aesthetic benefit of having their crowd control barricades fit into their color scheme

The next step was going beyond a solid color to actually convey a message on the jacket. SeaWorld San Diego was again an early adopter, as were a number of sports facilities or teams. Many of the earliest examples of printed jackets featured a sports team's logo, the name of an event's sponsor (often, in those days, beer companies), or simple directional instructions, such as an arrow and the word "Parking."

Today's Focus

But soon, the buzz word was sophistication - not only in terms of physical characteristics such as fit, color, and material, but in terms of marketing strategy. How barrier jackets would look, what they would say, and where they would be utilized, became an integral part of the marketing planning of sites, events, and sponsors.

Jackets, in effect, became ground-level billboards, and again, technical advancements made it easy - and cost effective - to reproduce high-quality, attractive images on a jacket. When an event received television or news coverage, the barrier jackets became a highly visible means of conveying an image or message.

Barrier Jacket Quality Primer

Through trial and error, a consensus regarding today's "standards" for barrier jackets has evolved. A quality barrier jacket will be designed with professional stitching and hems. It should be custom-fit to follow the crowd control barrier profile, and fit snugly to the corners of the barrier to eliminate any potential flapping. Jackets should have a minimum of three grommets on the bottom, allowing jackets to be locked on the barrier with tie wraps; otherwise, the jacket will flap in windy conditions.

Hook and loop fastener wraps are more secure than tabs or standard strips, and the ability to wrap at both end positions is critical - this eliminates confusion about a "right end" or a "wrong end" when putting jackets on the barriers.

With today's laser printing technology, anything that can be printed on paper can be printed on a barrier jacket. Text or logos can be placed anywhere on the jacket. If jackets are printed using the latest technology and great attention to detail, the end result should be very attractive artwork that puts forth a professional, market-focused imag

Barrier Jackets Marketing Primer

Perhaps most importantly, jackets can turn barriers from an expense to a revenue stream. This can happen directly - companies or sponsors will pay to have their logo/message on a jacket, or indirectly - the advertising/public relations exposure payoff can easily offset the cost of a jacket

Jackets can even have a bottom-line impact when they are used for informational purposes. When jackets provide directions, rules, or other information, it enhances the customers' experience, leading to a favorable impression - and potential repeat business - at your site or event

Widespread Use

Barrier jackets continue to grow in popularity, evidenced by high profile examples. Barrier jackets have been used by venues such as Radio City Music Hall and The Staples Center, sports franchises such as the Chicago Cubs and Washington Redskins, and major companies such as Budweiser and American Express

The Future

Improvements continue to be made in jacket design and printing which will only enhance clients' satisfaction. Jackets which "bleed" beyond the traditional margins, jackets sized to flush with the ground, and reversible jackets are just a few of the recent innovations which have been introduced to customer acclaim

Conclusion

Jackets can add significant value to steel barriers, and add sales and public relations value to any organization which utilizes them. They are a proven attention-getting device, an aesthetically pleasing visual alternative to an un-jacketed barrier, and valuable communications tool.


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Machine Embroidery on Jackets

Of all the different wearable items that can be embroidered, jackets would appear to be the easiest. When most of think of jackets in terms of embroidery, large areas for full back and left chest designs come to mind. What many of us often forget are the little curveballs apparel manufacturers are adding into their designs such as box pleats and seams down the back. Fashion forward styles may have things like raglan sleeves which can throw off design placement since they lack the guideline of a shoulder seam.

One sure way to begin with a jacket that is fit for embroidery is to focus on working with styles that give the fewest headaches. Therefore, do some research on the newest trends. In addition, start with a machine that is in top notch condition, with fresh needles and bobbins. Below are the other basic elements to consider in your quest for trouble-free jacket embroidery.

Choosing a hoop

The best choice in hoops for jackets is the double-high hoop. This hoop is taller than the average hoop so offers more holding power. You can wrap your hoop with white floral tape, medical gauze, twill tape or bias tape to prevent hoop marks and help give a snug fit. Tissue paper, backing or waxed paper can also be used. Hoop these materials on top of the jacket, then cut a window for the embroidery. A thin layer of foam under the tape can also help. But avoid masking tape as it tends to be sticky and leaves a residue on jacket and hoop. When choosing your hoops, remember that oval hoops hold better all the way around than do square hoops with oval corners. The "square oval" holds better in the corners than on the sides, top and bottom.

Needles

The size and type of needle will depend on the fabric of the jacket. Leather jackets call for an 80/12 sharp. (Wedge shaped "leather" needles tend to do more harm than good.) Use this same sharp needle on poplin and other cotton-type jackets. Use a 70/10 or 80/12 light ballpoint on nylon windbreakers and a 75/11 fine ballpoint on satins and oxford nylons to avoid runs in the fabric. Heavy wool jackets, canvas and denim jackets require a stronger sharp needle. Corduroy stitches well with either ballpoint or sharp. Remember that ballpoint needles nudge the fabric out of the way in order to place the stitch, while sharps cut through the fabric. A good rule of thumb is to use the same size needle to embroider as you would to sew the seams of the jacket in assembly.

As for thread, polyester is a good choice for embroidery on jackets that will be exposed to the weather and coastal climates. Be sure to include washing and dry cleaning instructions with your finished product. Consider choosing a large-eye needle when working with metallic and other heavy specialty threads

Placing the design

Hold a straight-edge across the jacket back from side seam to side seam at the bottom of the sleeves. Mark a horizontal straight line, then double check this with a measurement from the bottom of the jacket to the same line. Jackets are not always sewn together straight. Measure the straight line and divide in half to find the center of the jacket. Place a vertical line through the horizontal line at this point. The intersection of the two lines will be the center. If you are rotating the design to sew upside-down or sideways, take this into consideration when measuring and later when hooping. Use tailor's chalk, disappearing ink pens or soap to mark your garments. Avoid using pins. Masking tape is available in thin strips at graphic and art stores. It is easy to remove and leaves no marks. Wider masking tape, though, can leave residue.

Centering the design eight inches down from the back of the collar is a good place to start, and should work with most jackets. Small sizes may do better at six inches; very large ones may end up at 10 inches. The top of the design should fall about 2 ½ inches down from the collar of the jacket. But remember that this will change if the jacket has a hood. Then it will be necessary to place the design below the hood.

The best way to determine the center point of the design is to have someone try the jacket on, or invest in a mannequin. Pin an outline of the design or a sew-out to the back, making sure to include lettering and graphics to determine size and placement. Left or right chest designs should be centered three to four inches from the edge of the jacket and six to eight down from where the collar and the jacket body intersect. When embroidering on jackets with snaps or buttons, use the second snap or button as a guide.

Be careful not to place the design too close to the sleeve side of the jacket. Designs are not to be centered on the left chest. The correct placement is closer to the placket than to the sleeve. The center of a sleeve design should fall three to four inches below the shoulder seam of the sleeve. When placing a design on the sleeve of a raglan style jacket, mark the placement using a live model or a mannequin.
Backings

The complexity of a design will often be the major factor when choosing a backing for embroidery. Stitch intensive designs may need the extra stability backing provides. Even jackets made of fabrics such as poplin and satin (that might not otherwise cry out for a backing) can benefit from its use, especially if the design is complex. Consider attaching the backing to the jacket with spray adhesive before hooping to increase stability. Attaching a piece of light cut-away backing-or even rear-away-to a satin jacket can hold the jacket better while stitching, allowing for good registration in your design. And, if you should need to remove stitching, the presence of a backing can make your job easier and safer. Backing can also prevent residue from coated canvas fabrics from raining down into the bobbin housing.

Most jacket materials do not require topping. The exception to this might be the corduroy or fleece jacket where the use of a topping can tame the fluff of the fleece and prevent stitches from falling into the valleys of the corduroy. The use of underlay does a better job than topping for challenging fabrics-and as an added benefit, it does not wash away.

Hooping technique

When hooping, especially large or bulky items, start from the "fixed" side of the thumbscrew and travel around the hoop to the "free end." Use the heels of your hands to alleviate stress on your fingers and wrists. When hooping flat on a table, make sure that there is nothing between the hoop and the table. If any adjustment is needed, hold as much of the upper hoop in place as you can while adjusting. This prevents the garment from popping out of the hoop.

Always make sure the jacket lining is smooth, and double check to determine that the outer shell and the lining are even. Turning the sleeves inside out can help with hooping a lined jacket.

Hooping too loosely can cause puckering, too tightly can cause fabric burn. It can also stretch the fabric causing it to "spring back" when unhooped, meaning more puckering. Tips to prevent puckering include lightening the tension upper and lower, using tear-away if lettering is fill, using mid-weight cutaway if lettering or design is satin stitch. Adjust the hoops before hooping the garment and do not pull or stretch the fabric after it is hooped. Puckering is a risk when stitching on satin, and the lighter the weight of the satin, the more the danger of puckers. You will have the best results when the hold is firm. If you can move the satin around in the hoop, it will move while stitching.

A light pressing or steaming of the area to be embroidered can improve results and ensure that lining and jacket are lined up correctly. While you are checking to make sure your bobbins are full, it is a good idea to check that no part of the jacket is doubled up under the hoop. And please make sure you are not sewing pockets shut, especially inner ones.

Hooping the jacket upside-down and reversing the design is a good way to keep the bulk of the jacket away from the needles. Make sure the arms of the jacket are out of the way of any stitching before you begin. Use clothespins, bulldog clips, quilting clips or even large hair clips. Make sure that you support the weight of the jacket during embroidery to prevent the fabric from slipping out of the hoop, and to help ensure good registration. Embroidering jackets on the tabletop instead of in the tubular mode can help prevent the weight of the jacket from hampering the job. Check also to make sure the material is flat against the throat plate. If you can push down the fabric, the presser foot will too, and this can cause flagging. Flagging can cause stitching problems and poor registration.


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An Introduction to the Suit Jacket

Without a doubt, the most elegant item of clothing in a man's wardrobe is the suit jacket. It comes as part of a set with matching trousers and sometimes with a vest in the same or contrasting fabric.

There are two main types of suit jackets - the single-breasted jacket, usually with notch lapels and the double-breasted jacket, strictly with peak lapels. Occasionally, you may find a suit with a mandarin collar but it's not mainstream. Shawl lapels are commonly use in a tuxedo jacket.

Single-breasted jackets have a single row of buttons down the front, usually two or three; there may be an occasional four, commonly for very tall men. The jacket's front sides only overlap enough to permit buttoning.

A double-breasted jacket has two rows of buttons, and the front overlaps enough to allow both front sides to be attached to the opposite row of buttons. These jackets were all the rage in the 80s and seem to be going through a revival of sorts with some recent high-profile adopters in David Beckham, Jake Gyllenhaal and even Prince Charles. The current double-breasted jackets though are only remnants of their former selves - gone are the big shoulder pads, they are cut shorter and the bulk factor is removed altogether allowing shorter men the opportunity to don one without looking all swamped up.

Jacket Fit. The fit is the most important part of the jacket and I can't stress that enough. People have different comfort levels with how tapered they wear their jackets. This is usually done at the waist to allow the jacket to closely follow the contours of the body. It all depends on how comfortable you feel in the look. You may have noticed men who power-dress, bankers and management consultants for instance all wear tapered jackets as it is what basically creates the image. To look good in a suit, you need not have your jackets fitted to that level unless you like it that way. Although be careful that it's not too loose either as that creates the opposite effect of a shabby image. Make sure it's shaped well on you and the fabric does not pinch at some corners and hang loose at others.

Here are a few things other you will want to look at to ensure the rest of your jacket fits well. The waist button should rest just below the natural waist of the wearer. The length of the jacket should be in line with the middle knuckle of the thumb and the back should rest just a little below the bottom. The cuffs should rest just a little above where the wrists. This leaves room for the shirt cuffs to be seen, usually around half an inch.

Jacket Shoulders. Jackets are usually built around the shoulders, and this structure is essential to the fit of the garment. The most important function of the jacket shoulders is to create symmetry. People come in different shapes and sizes and that is true of their shoulders too. Some men have extremely broad shoulders, others drooping and some will even have shoulders of different heights. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that and a well-stitched bespoke jacket will easily help to create symmetry. The padding of the shoulders is the place to start. Make sure the shoulder lines are well-defined but not exaggerated. For most people excessively large shoulder pads, for instance those that extend beyond the natural shoulder line creates a disproportionate look. On the other hand, if you naturally have small shoulders, having the shoulder pads very slightly extend beyond your shoulder line, will correct the look for you. It's all down to your body type.

The thickness of the padding is the next thing to look at. If you naturally have shoulders of different heights, you can use the padding of varying thickness to easily correct that for you. As a general rule with shoulder padding, gone are the days when bulky shoulder pads were in trend. Today's jackets largely have a thin padding with a slightly downward natural slant. Over-padding causes the neck and head to be engulfed by the jacket, and too thin padding does not allow the jacket to have the formal look that a suit jacket is supposed to create. What a bespoke jacket does is to create evenness and symmetry no matter what your natural shoulders are like.

Jacket Lapels. Lapels are the folded flaps of cloth on the front side of the jacket; a continuation of the jacket collar that stretches down to where the buttons begin. Lapels come in different styles and options. The most common variance of the lapels is the width. For a classic look, a moderate-width lapel is best and it works well on most occasions.

There are three basic types of lapels. The most common is the notched lapel and is the type used on single-breasted jackets. A suit jacket with notched lapels is often considered the most formal way of dressing and the type adopted by businessmen across the board. The second type, the peak lapel is more dressy than notched and commonly used on a double-breasted suit. Peak lapels create a broader and stronger silhouette with it's fuller looking edges and arched angles - more of an occasion look and might be a bit much for the working day unless of course it comes on a double-breasted jacket. Shawl lapel is the third type and is usually found on tuxedo and dinner jackets. Here, the lapel and collar are not separate - the under collar is cut in one garment front with the centre back seam joining the two halves.

Jacket Sleeves Buttons. One of the things that distinguishes a bespoke jacket from an off-the-rack one is functioning sleeve buttons. In fact it has become fashionable to leave the last one unbuttoned as a statement to say that the jacket is custom-made. Most suits these days have four sleeve buttons but three is not uncommon. Regardless of the number, there should be at least as many of them as there are buttons on the waist, and they should be placed within a half-inch or so above the hem. Also sleeve buttons should always match the waist buttons.

Jacket Pockets. There are three typical styles of pockets on a jacket. The first is the jetted pockets. This type of pocket is sewn into the lining of the jacket and only a narrow horizontal slit appears on the side. As they appear nearly invisible, it contributes to a very sleek and polished look and frequently found on formal wear.

The second type of pocket is called the flap pocket. Flap pockets are like jetted pockets with an additional flap sewn into the top of the pocket, thus the name. It covers the pocket's opening. Flap pockets are the most common type on suit jackets and nowadays is tailored such that the flaps can be tucked inside the pocket thus creating the jetted pocket appearance. This gives wearers' the option of wearing the suit one day with the jetted pocket look and another with the flap pocket look.

There are also patch pockets, the least formal, and like the name suggests, a cloth is patched on the outside of the jacket to make it into a pocket.

Some bespoke jackets also come with a ticket pocket, another customisation that distinguishes a bespoke jacket from a ready-made one. It's a smaller pocket placed above the standard pocket on the right side or occasionally on the left if that's the wearer's dominant hand.

Pockets are, usually, horizontally cut, but on some less formal jackets like the sports jacket you will find that they are made with a slight slant.

Moving up and common to all jackets is the breast pocket - basically a jetted pocket found on the upper-left chest. It's purpose is not that of a pocket as such and is used more commonly for putting a display handkerchief or pocket square.

Inside pockets differ from jacket to jacket. Off-the-rack ones don't often come with one. On a bespoke suit, it depends on the customisation requests but as a standard there is normally one on the left side and it is sewn into the lining. Some additional inside pockets for holding pens and/or credit cards are also not uncommon, another signature that the jacket is bespoke.

Jacket Vents. Vents are flap-like slit(s) in the back bottom of the jacket designed to accommodate freer movement while a person is seated for instance and for easier access to trouser pockets for the wallet. On the bespoke jacket there are three options - ventless, center vent and side vents.

Ventless jackets as the name suggests have no vent and is commonly found on Italian-style suits offering a sleek look for the back side of the jacket. Center vent is one single slit in the center of the jacket. A jacket with side vents has two vents, one on either side, usually where the trouser pockets are placed.

If there's one point to take away after reading through the article, make sure it's "fit". A well-fitting suit covers a multitude of sins you may make in fabric, color and style.


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Buying Guide For Ski Jackets

Types of Jackets

When shopping for a ski jacket you are going to find two different types that are available. One is an insulated jacket and the other is a soft shell jacket. The most common question that people have is, "which one should I buy?" The simple answer to this question is that there is no right answer. The reason for this is that each person has a different body temperature regulation. Some people will get hot very quickly and thus having an insulated jacket would cause them great discomfort. Others, however, are routinely cold and having an insulated jacket only makes sense because a soft shell jacket would leave them even colder. With this being said, the first step to selecting the jacket that is best for you is by determining if you are warmer or colder person by nature. Once this is determined, you can then move forward in the process of selecting your jacket.

Insulated Jackets

The construction characteristics of an insulated jacket include an outer layer that is waterproof and windproof, along with an insulated layer that is built directly into the jacket. The insulating inner layer is likely to be made of fleece, down, or a synthetic fabric such as Primaloft. Also, many insulated jackets will contain an additional insulator piece that can be removed. These types of insulated jackets are some times referred to as system jackets or 3-in-1 jackets.

The insulation that is found in insulated jackets is most commonly measured in grams. The greater the number weight in grams, the warmer the jacket will be. Insulation types can range as low as 30 grams and go as high as 800 grams, which is most commonly found with Down material. For people who are colder by nature, an insulated jacket is the most suitable option.

Soft Shell Jackets

Soft shell jackets are windproof, waterproof jackets that have no internal insulation and are highly breathable. Now, you might wonder why anyone would choose a jacket that contains no internal insulation. The reasons for this are several, one of which has already been identified; being a warmer person by nature. Another reason that one may choose this type of jacket is because they prefer to have added mobility that is not available with an insulated jacket. As soft shell jackets are usually worn over a base layer and a mid layer, soft shell jackets do not have the added bulkiness of an insulated jacket. This means that you can contain the warmth of your body via your base layer and mid layer, but have added range of motion.

A soft shell jacket can be worn on its own on warmer days or layered with base and mid layers for colder days. However, for extremely cold temperatures and extended periods of time outdoors, a soft shell jacket is probably not the best option, but the final decision is ultimately up to you. For more information on base and mid layers, please review our article on the importance of layering.

Waterproof Rating

Probably the most important characteristic of any ski jacket is the waterproof rating. This rating tells you how quickly your jacket will become saturated and begin allowing water to penetrate to the layers below. Waterproof ratings are measured and indicated in millimeters(mm). The level is determined by placing a tube filled on the fabric and filling it with water. The level at which the water begins to penetrate through the fabric is the waterproof rating. The higher the number, the more waterproof the jacket is and the longer it will withstand snow and rain. For a jacket to be deemed legally waterproof, it must achieve a minimum 1,500mm rating. Jackets can be rated as high as 20,000mm, but the average rating is typically between 5,000 and 10,000mm. Keep in mind that as the rating goes higher, so too will the price.

There are many different types of waterproof fabrics that are used on the market today. Among the more well-known materials that are used are Gore-Tex, Hyvent, and Event. What makes materials such as these so effective is that they contain pores which are larger than a molecule of sweat, but smaller than a molecule of water. This means that not only is the material waterproof, but also very breathable.

Breathability Rating

Just like the waterproof rating measures how effective a jacket is at keeping water outside, the breathablity rating of a jacket measures how effective a jacket is at transferring moisture from inside to the outside. The same fabric pores that help prevent water from penetrating inside a jacket, allow sweat molecules to escape and ultimately keep your warmer.

Breathability rating is measured and indicated in grams (g). The measurement is determined by finding the Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MVTR). The MVTR determines how many grams of sweat per 1 square meter can escape a jacket in a 24 hour period. The higher the number, the more moisture escapes and the more breathable it is. Entry-level breathable fabrics will have MVTR ratings in the range of 2,000-3000g. Fabrics at the high end of the breathability scale will have an MVTR around 25,000g.

Fabric Durability

Contrary to what many people believe, ski jackets are different than your everyday winter jacket. Yes, you can wear your ski jacket as your everyday jacket, but if you haven't purchased a jacket specifically for skiing, you're best not to wear the everyday winter jacket that you bought at the department store to the slopes. The reasons for this are several, but one of the most important ones is that your ski jacket is going to be far more durable.

Ski jackets are made of tightly woven nylon or polyester. Materials which are designed for high performance use in the elements of winter. Extended exposure to high winds and the wet elements of the winter is what makes the construction of a ski jacket different from your everyday winter jacket. This is also why you'll find that ski jackets will cost more than a jacket you'd buy from the department store.

Seams

Fully Taped

Fully taped seams is exactly what it sounds like. All of the stitched seams have been taped for waterproofing. This is done with a waterproof tape that is glued on the interior and exterior of the seam. Fully taped seams are the best option if you want to be waterproof in these important areas that are prone for moisture. They will, however, cost more than jackets with critically taped seams. As an additional note, higher-end garments will offer Welded Seams, which are even more effective at protecting against moisture penetration at the seams.

Critically Taped

A less expensive option than Welded or Fully taped seams is Critically taped seams. Critically taped seams means that only some of the seams are taped and protected against moisture penetration. On a jacket this is not necessarily a bad thing, so don't be scared off by the fact that not all seams are covered. As long as you don't spend long periods of time in wet weather, or spend a lot of time falling in the snow, Critically taped seams will offer the protection you need.

Features

When shopping for ski jackets it is important to know that beyond how waterproof and breathable a jacket is, there are a number of features that you can expect to find available to you. In the following sections, we'll cover many of these features so you will know what to expect when shopping from one model to the next.

Front Zipper Cover: This feature is sometimes referred to as a storm flap. The purpose of this feature is to cover the front zipper of your jacket to prevent the wind and moisture from penetrating inside. As the zipper can be a highly prone area for moisture, this is considered by many as a must have feature.

Powder Skirt: A powder skirt is an elastic band that is located inside of a jacket at the waist. It provides a snap closure in the front and is intended to keep snow from going up the front or back of your jacket. Additionally, it help retain heat and keep you warmer when you're out on the slopes. This also means that if you're starting to feel a bit warm, you can unsnap the skirt for a moment to allow heat to escape and cool you down, then snap it back up to protect against the snow. This features is considered by many as a must-have, and it is highly recommended for maximum comfort when out on the snow.

Hood: While not all jackets offer a hood, those that do will offer a hood in one of several options: attached (non-removable), detachable, or stowaway. Attached hoods are fixed to the jacket and cannot be removed. Detachable hoods offer the luxury of protection on windy or snowy days, while also offering the versatility to be removed on warmer or fair weather ski days. Stowaway hoods offer the same luxuries as a detachable hood with the difference being that stowaway hoods do not need to be removed from the jacket. Instead they will tuck into a designated area of the jacket.

As your hood is intended to protect your head and neck from the elements, you want to make sure that your hood can fit over your helmet. Your hood should have enough room so you can look from side to side, and it should also adjust for your helmet size so it isn't too large or too small. The bill of your hood should be generous enough in size to shed rain from your goggles and eyes. Hoods, regardless of their style, are highly recommended for protection against the elements.

Wrist Closure: Wrist closures are one of the common adjustability features you can expect to find on jackets. Wrist closures will be present as an elastic, Velcro, snap, or thumbhole adjustment. This purpose of such an adjustment is to help keep cold air and snow from going up your arms. You will want to make sure that the wrist adjustment will work in tandem with your gloves.

Cinch Cord: Another adjustment feature that you can expect to find is a Cinch Cord adjustment. This is located at the bottom of the jacket and can be tightened so your jacket and pants are positioned closely together. This will help keep snow and wind from creeping up inside your jacket.

Pit Zips: Under arm zippers, or Pit Zips, are temperature regulating features that are present on many ski jackets. Pit Zips are zippers located under the arm that can be adjusted on the fly to help retain or release heat that builds up inside a jacket. If you're cold, or the temperate starts to drop, you can close them up to help keep heat close to the body. On warmer days these can be opened up fully to allow heat to escape while you remain fully protected from the elements everywhere else. While not considered a must-have, they are certainly suggested if you want the luxury of regulating your core temperature easily.

Pockets

Electronics Pocket: Thanks to the influx in portable electronic devices (e.g., cell phones, personal audio players, digital cameras), having a pocket designated specifically for electronics is a must have for many. For others, it's not a make or break feature. The important thing to understand is that pockets do exist for such items and they are certainly a convenience if you own such items. For those who enjoy listening to music while on the slopes, this pocket is extremely useful because electronics pockets have openings for wires to be run for headphones. This keeps the electronic device protected and the wiring internal so it is not ruined.

Goggle Pocket: Like an electronics pocket, the goggle pocket is designated specifically to house your goggles when you're not wearing them. This pocket will also typically house a goggle cloth that can be used to wipe your goggles if they get foggy.

Additional Fabric Lining: On many higher-end jackets you are likely to find additional fabric lining the inside of the jacket. This added fabric liner starts at the wrist and extends down over the palms with holes provided to insert your thumbs. This added lining adds extra warmth to the palms and wrists.

Avalanche Rescue System: Built into a select number of jackets an avalanche rescue system can be an invaluable feature if you're the type of skier who ventures into areas that prone to avalanches. Unlike a separate beacon system, jackets with this feature have a small, weightless transponder that is easily detected by a search rescue team. This feature is not necessarily a must have, but for safety is recommended. If you opt against a jacket with a built-in rescue system, you can always purchase a separate rescue system at a later time.

Hopefully all these guidelines will help you determine the best jacket is right for you.

Brigitte Liedke
Ski Apparel Buyer
Summit Sports