Ahoy, matey!
The Reefer was an easy-fitting jacket that was thick enough to protect its wearer from ocean breezes and still allow him the range of motion necessary to do his job. Always double-breasted and often coloured navy blue, the Reefer started life as almost a nautical uniform jacket but passed into fashionable circles by the 1870s. Brass buttons and gold braid were quite common even on the Reefers worn by lubbers.
For that nautical look, get our pattern (based on an original tailor's draft from the period) for a double-breasted reefer or pea coat from the 1870s through 1900!
Fits chests 38" to 54". All sizes in one envelope.
Also included are assembly instructions, embellishment suggestions, and the extensive historical notes you've come to expect from Reconstructing History.
Suggested Fabrics: wool; linen or cotton for lining; heavy linen or canvas for interlining
Notions: thread; 6 to 8 buttons for front, 6 smaller buttons for sleeve decoration; buckram; wool felt or padding for collar; buttonhole floss
Yardage Requirements: Jacket 4 yds 60” or 5 yds 45” wide; lining 5 yds 45” wide; interlining 2 yds 45” wide