Barbour jacket

Barbour's advertising slogan in the 1980s was: "The best British clothing for the worst British weather." Cut from waxed cotton, Barbour jackets have been designed and made in England by the Barbour family for almost 130 years.

In 1894, John Barbour opened a shop in South Shields, selling high-quality waterproof clothing. His son, Malcolm, expanded the business, using mail order. In 1928, John's grandson, Duncan, joined the firm. He developed a waxed motorcycle clothing range, which was worn by stars like Steve McQueen.

Later, the firm was given new energy by Margaret Barbour. In 1980, she designed the lightweight, thornproof Bedale riding jacket. With a corduroy collar and two-way zip, it was a huge success, as was the longer Beaufort jacket. Worn by Princess Diana, Barbour became a luxury brand with three royal warrants. Barbour repairs and rewaxes more than 25,000 jackets each year. Hard-wearing and comfortable, a Barbour jacket is like an old friend.