The Search For Smock.

Given that Nautical is clearly not going anywhere just yet (see exhibits A, B, C & D), I decided to throw my hat in the ring and cast my vote for the freshest bit of nautical gear out there. The Fisherman’s Smock is a humble bit of Breton outerwear that’s been around for well over a century. You can find them in various forms and styles, but a traditional one should have a slash collar with a single button closure and one (or occasionally two) large inner pockets that boatmen would use to keep their tobacco dry.

The smocks are traditionally made from Cotton Drill – “Sailcloth” if you prefer – and often have a thin coat of resin applied to increase their impermeability. While not entirely waterproof, these garments are surprisingly water resistant and they function as an excellent wind-shear as well. What I like about them most is that (much like great denim or a great coat) they will age beautifully over time, developing a ton of character in the fabric – a reflection of the wearer’s unique physical attributes and the activity performed while worn.

I chose a smock by Mat de Misaine who are a fairly young company in the Breton clothing trade (Est. 1990). I love the ecru interior of the smock and the substantial metal button on the outside (as opposed to the traditional mounting of the button on the inside) of the collar. There are a few other smocks out there from the people you would expect to be making great traditional Breton apparel. Saint James and Armor-lux make solid alternates.