the autumn jacket

frosty morning

embrace from an old friend

tattered autumn coat

A year or two ago my eldest son bought a used coat: a Barbour, which is a classic British waxed cotton jacket. I think they were originally hunting jackets, but now worn by many, and adored by many. They are expensive too, and high quality and made with care. Sourcing a used one, at a good price, is a nice find.

The jacket was too big for my son, so he ended up giving it to me towards the end of last winter. The coat was truly battered and tattered. It was well worn, some rips in the arms, but it was perfect.

It is heavy (in a comfortable way), smells great, and fits perfectly.

As the weather cools in this part of the world, pulling out the warmer clothes is a ritual, one that signals the changing of the seasons, the shorter days, and reflections about transitions.

The coat needed some repairs so I recently dropped it off at a vintage/thrift shop in Montreal- called mervmatsui. The owner is obsessed (in a good way) with Barbour jackets. He saw my love of the old tattered jacket and agreed to repair and re-wax it “let’s call it a project” he stated. I am getting the coat back this week and I can’t wait.

A favourite jacket is more than practical. This one reminds me of my son, the beauty of changing seasons, and an appreciation for well-made things, even if tattered.