Barbour Way of Life
Barbour: the British icon of country style since 1894
Barbour is an iconic British house, globally recognized for its waxed jackets, hunting apparel, and English country style. Founded in 1894 by John Barbour in South Shields, in the northeast of England, the brand has perpetuated for over 130 years a craftsmanship associated with outdoor life, hunting, and British elegance.
At Tweedchasse, Barbour is one of the historic brands in our selection. Its authenticity, the quality of its materials, and its timeless aesthetic perfectly match our vision of English style and the country lifestyle.
The history of Barbour, an English house founded in 1894
The story of Barbour begins in 1894, when John Barbour opened the "John Barbour & Sons" shop at 5 Market Place in South Shields, England.
From its beginnings, the house developed a business focused on clothing adapted to the harsh conditions faced by workers and people living or working outdoors. In 1908, Barbour published its first mail-order catalog. The brand was already seeing significant international success: approximately 75% of its orders at the time came from abroad, notably from Chile, South Africa, and Hong Kong.
The company continued its development under the leadership of John Barbour's sons, Jack and Duncan. During the Second World War, Duncan was mobilized, and it was his wife, Nancy Barbour, who took over the management of the company. Barbour then participated in the war effort and notably equipped British submariners with the Ursula suit.
Barbour jackets that have become iconic
In 1957, Barbour reached a new milestone by becoming a manufacturer and distributor. The company set up its production activities in South Shields, where the manufacturing of certain iconic pieces of the brand continues to this day.
Barbour's expertise is particularly expressed through its waxed cotton jackets. Designed to offer effective protection against wind and rain, they have become essential benchmarks of British country clothing.
Among the most famous models are:
- Barbour Bedale, created in 1980, which has become a benchmark of country and equestrian style;
- Barbour Beadnell, an iconic women's version inspired by the Bedale;
- Barbour Beaufort, launched in 1987 and particularly appreciated in the hunting world.
These models are distinguished by their waxed cotton, functional cut, generous pockets, and timeless British aesthetic.
The tartan lining is also inseparable from the Barbour identity: the pattern used is associated with the Barbour family.
Barbour and the Royal Warrants
The history of Barbour is also closely linked to the British royal family. On April 1, 1974, the house received its first Royal Warrant, granted by the Duke of Edinburgh.
Other distinctions followed with the Queen's Royal Warrant in 1982, then that of the Prince of Wales in 1987. Barbour thus became the only house to have simultaneously held these three Royal Warrants, a particularly prestigious symbol of its recognition in the United Kingdom.
Why are Barbour jackets so popular?
The popularity of Barbour jackets relies on a balance between functionality, durability, and style.
A waxed Barbour jacket is designed to accompany outdoor activities while providing protection against the elements. It also easily integrates into a daily outfit, with jeans, corduroy trousers, hunting trousers, or a tweed outfit.
It is this versatility that has allowed Barbour to go far beyond the world of hunting and become a true reference for British style.
What can you find in the Barbour collection at Tweedchasse?
At Tweedchasse, we have selected the iconic pieces of the Barbour world in order to offer a complete British wardrobe.
You will find in particular:
- waxed Barbour jackets;
- Bedale and Beaufort jackets;
- Beadnell for women;
- shirts and polos;
- gilets and quilted jackets;
- caps and accessories;
- footwear and other pieces inspired by English country style.
Whether you are looking for a Barbour jacket for hunting, a waxed jacket to protect you from the rain, or simply an iconic piece of English style, the Barbour collection meets various needs and styles.
Barbour, a benchmark of English country style
Today, Barbour is present in many countries and remains a family business. Margaret Barbour oversees its management, while her daughter Helen Barbour, representing the fifth generation, notably serves as vice-chairwoman.
More than a century after its creation, Barbour retains a particularly strong identity. Waxed jacket, waxed cotton, tartan lining, hunting, the English countryside, and British craftsmanship have become the hallmarks of a house recognizable among all others.
For Tweedchasse, Barbour perfectly represents this balance between British tradition, functionality, and country elegance. Discover our selection of Barbour clothing and accessories and compose your own English wardrobe.