The Fedora Lounge - Outerwear http://www.thefedoralounge.com/ Bomber jackets to trench coats. en Wed, 22 May 2013 18:00:42 GMT vBulletin 60 http://www.thefedoralounge.com/images/Styles/Blackend/misc/rss.png The Fedora Lounge - Outerwear http://www.thefedoralounge.com/ The Few FW 2013-14 @ Mushmans http://www.thefedoralounge.com/showthread.php?71944-The-Few-FW-2013-14-Mushmans&goto=newpost Tue, 21 May 2013 12:34:16 GMT Thought some of you guys might find this interesting. Mushmans is currently holding a show for their collaborations with The Few for Fall/Winter... Thought some of you guys might find this interesting. Mushmans is currently holding a show for their collaborations with The Few for Fall/Winter 2013-14.

This one is still somewhat under wraps but I'm quite sure it's in blue Badalassi.





http://blog.mushmans.com/?eid=845

I'll stop over there sometime this week and take some pics. ]]> Outerwear Ishmael http://www.thefedoralounge.com/showthread.php?71944-The-Few-FW-2013-14-Mushmans Alexander Leathers oil pull tan steer Roadster with zip sleeves http://www.thefedoralounge.com/showthread.php?71938-Alexander-Leathers-oil-pull-tan-steer-Roadster-with-zip-sleeves&goto=newpost Tue, 21 May 2013 01:29:43 GMT About 4 weeks after my trip to Scotland I received an AL oil pull tan steer roadster with zip sleeves, size 38. I used to think those sleeves were... About 4 weeks after my trip to Scotland I received an AL oil pull tan steer roadster with zip sleeves, size 38. I used to think those sleeves were naff but after seeing them up close I realised I think they're actually pretty cool, in a classic kind of way. I initially only tried on a jacket with them because it's sleeves, I was told, were longer than the standard version's.

Brendon, the cutter, measured me up and I went along with all that he said. The back is exactly the 25.5" long it was meant to be and the sleeves are exactly the 27.5" long they are meant to be. The leather is pristine all over with no 'jerky' bits. He has not let me down

Then it was over to Moira Johnstone who put it together. I know that because Moira puts her full name on the labels. I'm certainly no stitch counter, but in my not so humble opinion as far as I can tell this effort of hers is flawless. I feel quite sure this Lady must take a pride in what she does, and that would perhaps explain in part the full name thing.

Something I'm particularly pleased about is her handling of the inside pocket. The top corner of that - which I've noticed has a tendency to show through on jackets - is perfectly aligned behind the corner of the outside breast pocket therefore negating that issue. On that pocket I asked if instead of a snap closure or zip, I could have a button with a loop. I also asked for a shirt style open pocket to be sewn onto the other side of the lining. That one I will basically use to stow anything that's worth keeping but isn't important enough to make it into my wallet. For durability a 4 inch cord strip was sewn onto the hem. Sleeves are cotton drill, body is moleskin

When looking around at tan leathers I could not see a better option and so felt pretty good about this order. IMO the leather is such a great colour; it's a really rich and full shade of tan. Admittedly this one did catch my eye too http://www.insurrectionvintage.com/o...schotthalfbelt but it costs a heck of a lot more (£654 which is before shipping and the customs fees that I btw always pay in full) plus it's not customisable either. All of which meant going made to measure with AL for £500 was a pretty easy call.

And I'm glad I made it. The leather is 1.3mm which is substantial without being overly heavy. Of course, we all have a slightly different take on what the ideal fit is, but according to mine it's this. Simply put this is the best fitting jacket I've had in about 8 years' worth of buying. Conclusion: that god awful drive to Scotland was worth it!!!


Pictures

I've taken a few snaps and will try to add a front shot with it done up in the coming days if we get some sunshine. Don't be surprised if that one has me in a balaclava though, as a lot of the time I seem to be wearing strange facial expressions at the critical moment, or blinking




Does my bum look big in this? (the back with the zip zipped)


side on with it zipped up


Inside button loop pocket


inside shirt style pocket
]]> Outerwear schitzo http://www.thefedoralounge.com/showthread.php?71938-Alexander-Leathers-oil-pull-tan-steer-Roadster-with-zip-sleeves Good Wear 1939 Werber Sportswear A2 in Cowhide http://www.thefedoralounge.com/showthread.php?71917-Good-Wear-1939-Werber-Sportswear-A2-in-Cowhide&goto=newpost Sun, 19 May 2013 12:02:39 GMT Since the publication of Gary Eastman's A2 Flight Jacket Identification Manual it is known that Cowhide was used in the 1939 contract. Therefore John Chapman decided to make a reproduction of this small contract using cowhide. The russet cowhide is soft with many areas of grain and the caramel knits provide a nice contrast. The 39-2951-P contract was the last to have the waistband seam top stitched and the first to be made without the leather jetting down the leading edge of the front left lining panel. The zip is a copy of the M-34 Talon no. 7 and is stamped Waldes on the puller. It is identical in every respect (except the name) to the Hookless zipper used by ELC on their 1933 Werber.

The jacket is tagged a 46, but fits like a Wartime 44 and is extremely comfortable to wear. Here are some pictures taken today.








]]> Outerwear aswatland http://www.thefedoralounge.com/showthread.php?71917-Good-Wear-1939-Werber-Sportswear-A2-in-Cowhide New Aero FQHH Half-belt arrived...Breaking in question. http://www.thefedoralounge.com/showthread.php?71913-New-Aero-FQHH-Half-belt-arrived...Breaking-in-question.&goto=newpost Sun, 19 May 2013 04:35:41 GMT Hi Guys,
I'm still on the Aero learning curve here. I just received my first brand new Aero, and it's a beauty. It's a 30's half-belt in FQHH black. The arms are the perfect length, the body is the perfect length, I love the style and quality, the lining, the hardware. Everything about it. But the only thing I'm concerned about is that the shoulders are too tight. The shoulder area actually seems to unnaturally fold where it's pulling. I have relatively wide shoulders. I've been told that since it's horsehide, the shoulders will stretch out by about an inch. It just needs some breaking in. I have no problems with breaking it in, in fact I rather relish the experience. But I don't want to go through the trouble and then find out months or a year down the line the jacket is still too tight and always will be. I've never owned Aero horsehide or any horsehide before. Every leather jacket I've owned or still own has comfortably fit right from the beginning, but they've all been steerhide, or cowhide. Has anyone else found that their Aero FQHH jacket was too tight to begin with but it eventually stretched out to mold to their particular body? Is this typical of Aero horsehide? Am I deluding myself here? ]]> Outerwear technovox http://www.thefedoralounge.com/showthread.php?71913-New-Aero-FQHH-Half-belt-arrived...Breaking-in-question. Can you show me your US Authentic A-2s http://www.thefedoralounge.com/showthread.php?71898-Can-you-show-me-your-US-Authentic-A-2s&goto=newpost Sat, 18 May 2013 19:48:43 GMT Does anyone have a photo of a really well broken in US Authentic A-2 preferably in russet? From all the pictures I see floating around the internet,... Does anyone have a photo of a really well broken in US Authentic A-2 preferably in russet? From all the pictures I see floating around the internet, it looks like it almost has the color sprayed on in some acrylic like coating, and I was wondering if it looks more like real leather after a few years. I have an unknown brand G1 made in the USA from Id imagine the late 70s or early 80s and it has that strange, fake looking coating sprayed over top and Id really like to stay as far away from that as possible. If it doesn't look at least a little better than the photos on the website, Im not so sure Id feel okay about dropping $500+ on it. However the claims of it being indestructible are enticing (My life entails a lot of working on greasy cars, motorcycles, and carrying tons of firewood, that would probably have most jackets trashed within 2 years)

Thanks all ]]> Outerwear Xopher http://www.thefedoralounge.com/showthread.php?71898-Can-you-show-me-your-US-Authentic-A-2s <![CDATA[A-2, G-1 & M422 Repro jacket knits. Comparisons.]]> http://www.thefedoralounge.com/showthread.php?71896-A-2-G-1-amp-M422-Repro-jacket-knits.-Comparisons.&goto=newpost Sat, 18 May 2013 18:37:25 GMT Gents, I realize WW2 jacket knits came in all shape and sizes and many jackets had replacements knits by John Doe, that being said... Regarding... Gents,

I realize WW2 jacket knits came in all shape and sizes and many jackets had replacements knits by John Doe, that being said...

Regarding our top repro premium jacket makers, the likes of Goodwear, Eastman, Bill Kelso, Aero, Lost Worlds, etc...
In your opinions, who makes the best A-2 knits?
I am thinking, who's knits stay tight and hold their shape the longest?
Who's knits are the most period accurate?

I think G-1 & M422 knits could be considered separately due to them being made in a different way, ie single weave.
Am I correct?
That being the case, whos M442/G-2 knits hold their shape the best?

IMO. All of my ELC A-2's knits lost their shape pretty fast, except my B-10, its as amazing throughout as the day I bought it. Didn't have my LW, GW long enough to comment. Aeros have stood the test of time (although not as historically accurate). Not yet had a BK, can't comment. ]]> Outerwear Brettafett http://www.thefedoralounge.com/showthread.php?71896-A-2-G-1-amp-M422-Repro-jacket-knits.-Comparisons. Aero Baseball Jacket http://www.thefedoralounge.com/showthread.php?71880-Aero-Baseball-Jacket&goto=newpost Fri, 17 May 2013 23:09:49 GMT I saw this on the Aero sales page earlier, and since no-one's mentioned it, I figured that I'd post it.



Incidentally it's a 38 to 40 long (sorry Worf and Butte :D), and I'm sure that Holly will sort you out if you want it.

I think that it's stunning. I'm looking forward to seeing the final product. ]]> Outerwear Graemsay http://www.thefedoralounge.com/showthread.php?71880-Aero-Baseball-Jacket Groups http://www.thefedoralounge.com/showthread.php?71863-Groups&goto=newpost Fri, 17 May 2013 00:39:33 GMT A few folks seem not to be aware of the recently created Groups created since Nathan switched on the permissions. So here is a list of the current... A few folks seem not to be aware of the recently created Groups created since Nathan switched on the permissions.

So here is a list of the current ones:

Goodwear(ers)
Good Wear jackets. This is the group to discuss and share Good Wear jackets info. All military and civilian models are wanted.

Friends Of Aero Leathers
What it says on the tin.....

Selfedge Loungers
For fans of vintage and repro Denim

Simonds Caps - Fans
A group for people to discuss caps made by Barry Simonds. A place to post photos of his work and to discuss new styles that we would like to see Barry experiment with.

Borsalino Brotherhood
Those of us who love, admire and wear the magnificent hats of Italy's Borsalino Hat Company.

Brotherhood Of The Thin Ribbon
Lovers of fedoras with thin ribbons!

Carolina Loungers
For Loungers from North and South Carolina.

Okies Of The Fedora Lounge
The title really should give you an idea.


And how do we get to these groups? Simply click on "Community" in the top bar, and hit "Groups" in the drop down.

Go on, give it a try. Join a few - or maybe even start your own!:D;) ]]> Outerwear majormajor http://www.thefedoralounge.com/showthread.php?71863-Groups New Aero Highwayman http://www.thefedoralounge.com/showthread.php?71859-New-Aero-Highwayman&goto=newpost Thu, 16 May 2013 20:45:47 GMT Hello all,

Received my brown Highwayman (ok, dream jacket :)) yesterday from Insurrection.
As some here know I'm a tall guy and can hardly buy anything off the rack, so I always have to go the custom route.
Anyhow, I received this "tall" Highwayman and I'm very happy with it. It's the first Aero I've ever owned and it is something else. I was curious to find out "how stiff" the jacket would be and IMO it's not that bad. I'm looking forward to breaking it in. I also think it will drape a bit better after giving it some time.
So for the FQHH, yes, it IS stiff, but its of no real concern. I've noticed much more the weight of the jacket. Very heavy but does not feel so when worn. Arm movement is relatively restricted but I'm not worried as I don't do a lot of physical activity anyway.
What's funny is that I forgot all about the smell of the new leather until receiving it. It always seems to shock me at first. It's a pleasant smell, but I don't know if I'd like to be in Aero's shoes and have to smell it for 8 hours a day!
I should give a big nod to Insurrection, who made the entire process very easy. I changed my mind a few times over details before it was over and they were just great about it.
I also want to thank Moiria? (I'm sure I spelled that wrong, as I couldn't make out the tag) for making the jacket. I have a strong feeling that FQHH jackets are really difficult to construct. Great job to her.
A size 38 was what I ended up going with. A size 36 was initially recommended but I feel I need plenty of room for my future beer gut. I'm 23 and I hope to be able to wear the jacket long down the road.
Anyhow, here are some amateurish fit pics I took of myself from this camera self-timer app. Hope you enjoy.
Thanks again to everyone here as well.

http://i1272.photobucket.com/albums/...ps54fdb5d8.jpg
http://i1272.photobucket.com/albums/...ps95b08143.jpg
Shirt untucked:
http://i1272.photobucket.com/albums/...ps06e3b2c9.jpg ]]> Outerwear nick123 http://www.thefedoralounge.com/showthread.php?71859-New-Aero-Highwayman Can anyone please recommend further reference books ? http://www.thefedoralounge.com/showthread.php?71857-Can-anyone-please-recommend-further-reference-books&goto=newpost Thu, 16 May 2013 18:49:07 GMT Good day all,

Just coming from another thread that's straying slightly off-topic but it's raised a great point about something I've wanted to ask for a while ...

I have the Art Of The Flying Jacket book by Jon Maguire and it's been indispensable to me and worth every cent. It's shown me so much about A2's and the patches and jacket art of the various theatres of war and has served as great inspiration for how I'd like my jackets to look.

So if I like that book (and I adore it) - can anyone please recommend another like it ?

Thank you!
Stand By ]]> Outerwear Stand By http://www.thefedoralounge.com/showthread.php?71857-Can-anyone-please-recommend-further-reference-books Rare Original photos of A-2s http://www.thefedoralounge.com/showthread.php?71851-Rare-Original-photos-of-A-2s&goto=newpost Thu, 16 May 2013 15:11:07 GMT Not sure if anyone’s ever seen those pictures, but just found them (was randomly searching A-2 images on the net). These are high quality 8th Air... Not sure if anyone’s ever seen those pictures, but just found them (was randomly searching A-2 images on the net). These are high quality 8th Air Force colour pics from 1942, I think they look great – you almost feel like you’re there! Some great quality photos of A-2’s in there. Can anyone tell what type of A-2s they are?

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/arti...h-Command.html ]]> Outerwear JB Cottus http://www.thefedoralounge.com/showthread.php?71851-Rare-Original-photos-of-A-2s Darkening a leather jacket http://www.thefedoralounge.com/showthread.php?71841-Darkening-a-leather-jacket&goto=newpost Thu, 16 May 2013 05:11:07 GMT I've been researching threads here about conditioners and darkening. Most conditioners, it seems, will darken temporarily, as I would have expected. And I've seen one or two mentioned that do not darken.

Well, I'm looking at an old jacket on eBay. And if I get it, I'd like to bring some "life" back into the leather and darken it.

What conditioner do you recommend for "permanent" or "long term" darkening?

Oh, it's front quarter horsehide. Here's a photo...



Spasibo. ]]> Outerwear Physicist http://www.thefedoralounge.com/showthread.php?71841-Darkening-a-leather-jacket AAF Shoulder Decal. To apply a meatball or not? http://www.thefedoralounge.com/showthread.php?71822-AAF-Shoulder-Decal.-To-apply-a-meatball-or-not&goto=newpost Wed, 15 May 2013 18:29:20 GMT So, as the thread title suggests, I'm trying to decide if I should put one on my GW Dubow or not? For daily wear, patched up jackets are not my thing but the shoulder decal is appealing and I do like the way they look when they crack and fade. So what are peoples general thoughts on the subject? ]]> Outerwear devilish http://www.thefedoralounge.com/showthread.php?71822-AAF-Shoulder-Decal.-To-apply-a-meatball-or-not Aero A-2 Sale in June... http://www.thefedoralounge.com/showthread.php?71820-Aero-A-2-Sale-in-June...&goto=newpost Wed, 15 May 2013 15:52:15 GMT I ripped this from VLJ this AM. Hopefully, Ken doesn't mind it being posted here - I don't think he will do it otherwise. Thought I'd put this up for anyone looking at an A-2 at a good price from a good maker...I know some have had trouble finding good Aeros on eBay ;)
Scott
Quote:
(I took some VLJ specific talk out - Scott)
"...We've recently completed a large trade order for a full range of Aero Type A-2 jackets, 38-1711-P, 40-3785-P, 42-15142-P and 42-18775-P.It was a very complicated order with lots of different specs, zippers, plus more than one change in the order during production, various colours and hides used, some adapted lengths etc, and, OK we didn't keep on top of things as well as we could and this has left us with a fairly substantial surplus of A-2 jackets left over from this order, overmakes, slight seconds etc , These will all be listed for sale next month, all at the very special price of £360 each, there are a two or three seconds but at least 95% are perfect, anyone looking for a bargain before June should mail christine@aeroleatherclothing.com with the contract number they are looking for plus the size and we'll see what we've got."There are about 40 jackets in all, one or two of the 1938 contract with Hookless zippers are already on our website at £425CheersKen
]]> Outerwear ButteMT61 http://www.thefedoralounge.com/showthread.php?71820-Aero-A-2-Sale-in-June... Aero ebay frustrations http://www.thefedoralounge.com/showthread.php?71816-Aero-ebay-frustrations&goto=newpost Wed, 15 May 2013 10:01:08 GMT Waiting for an aero on ebay is just like waiting for a bus. Nothing in my size for months then about 5 come along at once. Waiting for an aero on ebay is just like waiting for a bus.
Nothing in my size for months then about 5 come along at once. ]]> Outerwear Alistar79 http://www.thefedoralounge.com/showthread.php?71816-Aero-ebay-frustrations