Norfolk Jackets and Tweed Collection
Born in the county of Norfolk, England, in the mid-nineteenth century, the Norfolk Jacket (also called a shooting or hunting jacket,) was made for rugged use. Featuring sturdy box pleats, heavy gusset pockets, and a matching belt, English gentry would wear them for hunting, shooting, fishing, or any other outdoor sport requiring freedom of motion.
Each hunting coat showcases the quintessential features that defined Victorian sporting life: durable box pleats for freedom of movement, deep gusset pockets, and a traditional belted waist. Made from premium wool-blend herringbone tweed, these vintage sport coats evolved beyond the shooting field to become essential wear for early motorists and cyclists during the Edwardian era.
Perfect for historical shooting events, vintage car rallies, period cycling gatherings, and sporting demonstrations. Create a complete Victorian ensemble by pairing your Norfolk shooting jacket with our matching tweed trousers or traditional knickerbockers. Each jacket combines authentic period details with practical durability, making them ideal for both historical reenactments and modern sporting pursuits.
Our authentic Norfolk Jackets are made of a sturdy wool blend herringbone tweed, and can be paired with matching tweed trousers or knickerbockers for a suited look. We also offer a full line of mens flat caps, perfect to top off your sporting attire.
We are proud of our Norfolk Jackets, and consider them comparable to other coats that cost hundreds of dollars more. We invite you to browse our line (and read the enthusiastic reviews!) and please contact us if you have any questions.
What is a Norfolk jacket?
A Norfolk jacket is a loose, belted, single-breasted tweed jacket with box pleats on the back and front, with a belt or half-belt. It was originally designed as a shooting coat that did not bind when the elbow was raised to fire, offering excellent freedom of movement for outdoor activities.
Who invented the Norfolk jacket and when?
The Norfolk jacket was invented by the Duke of Norfolk (Henry FitzAlan-Howard) in the mid-19th century, specifically for hunting and outdoor activities. It became popular in the late Victorian era around the 1860s to 1870s and remained a staple of country attire through the early 20th century.
Are there modern takes on the Norfolk jacket?
Modern takes on the Norfolk jacket include streamlined versions with less pronounced pleats, contemporary materials alongside traditional tweeds, and updated fits while maintaining the distinctive belted silhouette and pleated design elements. Many designers have revived the style with contemporary touches for today's fashion market.
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What is a half Norfolk jacket?
A half Norfolk jacket features pleating and belting only on the back portion of the jacket, while maintaining a more conventional front appearance. This hybrid style offers the distinctive Norfolk character with slightly less visual complexity, making it a more subtle option for those who appreciate the style's heritage.
How to style a tweed jacket?
Tweed jackets can be styled with complementary wool trousers, quality denim, a crisp button-down shirt, and classic leather shoes for a refined look. For casual settings, pair with chinos and a lightweight sweater or turtleneck, and consider accessories like pocket squares or wool ties to complete the ensemble.
Is the belt real on the Historical Emporium Norfolk Jacket?
The belt on the Historical Emporium Norfolk Jacket is a functional belt that can be adjusted and buckled, staying true to the authentic design of traditional Norfolk jackets. This detail is part of what makes their reproduction historically accurate rather than merely decorative.
How to size myself for a Norfolk Jacket?
To size yourself for a Norfolk jacket, measure your chest at its widest point, ensure you can comfortably button the jacket without pulling, and check that the shoulders align with your natural shoulder line without extending beyond. Consider allowing extra room if you plan to wear layers underneath the jacket.
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Are there matching pants for the Tweed Norfolk Jackets?
Yes, matching pants for Tweed Norfolk Jackets are available as part of tweed shooting suits or country suits, often sold as separates that can be purchased to create a complete coordinated ensemble. Traditional options include both full-length trousers and matching tweed knickers, which were historically worn for hunting and country sports with long socks.
Is a Norfolk Jacket warm?
Norfolk jackets are typically made from medium to heavyweight tweed, making them quite warm and suitable for cool to cold weather, especially when layered with appropriate undergarments. The dense weave of traditional tweed provides excellent insulation and wind resistance for outdoor activities.
Is the Historical Emporium Norfolk a real jacket? Why is it so much less than Norfolks from the UK?
Yes, the Historical Emporium Norfolk is a real jacket, well made of good weight tweed. It is comparable to jackets costing hundreds of dollars more, and we've sold hundreds of jackets and matching tweed trousers and knickers, with very high customerratings.
