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A Journey Through Time: The Story of J. Barbour and SonsWhen John Barbour opened his small shop in the bustling Market Place of South Shields in 1894, he could hardly have imagined the global legacy he was setting in motion. Starting as a humble importer of oilcloth, J. Barbour & Sons has grown into an internationally renowned brand synonymous with rugged elegance, British craftsmanship, and timeless style. |
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Roots Anchored in TraditionThe Barbour story begins with the grit and charm of the British countryside. From its early days, the brand catered to fishermen, farmers, and laborers who needed durable, weatherproof clothing. John’s practical designs quickly gained popularity, and by 1908, the company was mailing out catalogues that brought Barbour to customers as far away as South Africa and Hong Kong—a visionary move that accounted for 75% of its business at the time. In 1928, Duncan Barbour, an avid motorcyclist, added a thrilling twist to the Barbour narrative by introducing a range of motorcycling apparel. The now-iconic Barbour International jacket became the gold standard for motorcyclists, worn by British racing teams for decades. A Legacy of Innovation and ResilienceThe Barbour name is no stranger to reinvention. During World War II, Barbour demonstrated its resourcefulness by creating the Ursula suit, a waterproof ensemble that became essential gear for the British Submarine Service. The company thrived under the leadership of strong-willed family members like Nancy Barbour, who stepped in during wartime, and Dame Margaret Barbour, who has helmed the brand since 1973. Margaret’s vision not only modernized Barbour’s offerings but also cemented its reputation as a symbol of understated luxury. Her creation of the Beaufort and Bedale jackets, still beloved today, brought countryside functionality into the realm of fashion. From Countryside to CatwalkWhat started as a workwear brand for rural Britain has evolved into a global lifestyle powerhouse. Barbour now caters to men, women, children, and even four-legged friends, offering everything from waxed jackets to knitwear, dresses, and accessories. While its heart remains in South Shields, where every wax jacket is handcrafted with care, Barbour’s influence spans more than 55 countries, from the United States to Japan. Collaborations with brands like Land Rover and designers such as ALEXACHUNG have pushed Barbour into new fashion territory, appealing to younger, urban audiences while preserving its heritage. Even Hollywood has taken notice — James Bond himself sported a Barbour jacket in Skyfall. Heritage Meets SustainabilityBarbour isn’t just about looking good; it’s about doing good, too. With its innovative Re-Loved program, customers can trade in their old jackets for repairs or recycling, promoting sustainability while honouring the brand’s commitment to quality. Meanwhile, the Wax for Life initiative celebrates 100 years of re-waxing jackets, a testament to Barbour’s dedication to crafting garments that stand the test of time. Royal Seals of ApprovalFew brands can boast not one, but three Royal Warrants. Barbour’s relationship with British royalty began in 1974, when HRH the Duke of Edinburgh recognized the brand’s excellence. Subsequent honours from Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles III further solidify Barbour’s place in the pantheon of British heritage brands. The Barbour Way of LifeBarbour’s story is more than a tale of business success; it’s a love letter to craftsmanship, resilience, and the enduring spirit of the British countryside. Whether you’re hiking through rugged hills, navigating a city commute, or attending a music festival, Barbour’s beautifully functional designs ensure you do so with wit, grit, and glamour.Today, under the stewardship of Dame Margaret and Helen Barbour, this fifth-generation family business continues to innovate while staying true to its roots. As Barbour strides confidently into the future, one thing remains certain: the Barbour Way of Life is as timeless as the waxed jackets that started it all. So, whether you’re drawn to the brand’s rugged charm, its nods to nostalgia, or its forward-thinking approach, one thing is clear: Barbour isn’t just a jacket — it’s a lifestyle. |
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View Our Barbour Range |
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A Journey Through Time: The Story of J. Barbour and SonsWhen John Barbour opened his small shop in the bustling Market Place of South Shields in 1894, he could hardly have imagined the global legacy he was setting in motion. Starting as a humble importer of oilcloth, J. Barbour & Sons has grown into an internationally renowned brand synonymous with rugged elegance, British craftsmanship, and timeless style. |
Roots Anchored in TraditionThe Barbour story begins with the grit and charm of the British countryside. From its early days, the brand catered to fishermen, farmers, and laborers who needed durable, weatherproof clothing. John’s practical designs quickly gained popularity, and by 1908, the company was mailing out catalogues that brought Barbour to customers as far away as South Africa and Hong Kong—a visionary move that accounted for 75% of its business at the time. In 1928, Duncan Barbour, an avid motorcyclist, added a thrilling twist to the Barbour narrative by introducing a range of motorcycling apparel. The now-iconic Barbour International jacket became the gold standard for motorcyclists, worn by British racing teams for decades. A Legacy of Innovation and ResilienceThe Barbour name is no stranger to reinvention. During World War II, Barbour demonstrated its resourcefulness by creating the Ursula suit, a waterproof ensemble that became essential gear for the British Submarine Service. The company thrived under the leadership of strong-willed family members like Nancy Barbour, who stepped in during wartime, and Dame Margaret Barbour, who has helmed the brand since 1973. Margaret’s vision not only modernized Barbour’s offerings but also cemented its reputation as a symbol of understated luxury. Her creation of the Beaufort and Bedale jackets, still beloved today, brought countryside functionality into the realm of fashion. From Countryside to CatwalkWhat started as a workwear brand for rural Britain has evolved into a global lifestyle powerhouse. Barbour now caters to men, women, children, and even four-legged friends, offering everything from waxed jackets to knitwear, dresses, and accessories. While its heart remains in South Shields, where every wax jacket is handcrafted with care, Barbour’s influence spans more than 55 countries, from the United States to Japan. Collaborations with brands like Land Rover and designers such as ALEXACHUNG have pushed Barbour into new fashion territory, appealing to younger, urban audiences while preserving its heritage. Even Hollywood has taken notice — James Bond himself sported a Barbour jacket in Skyfall. Heritage Meets SustainabilityBarbour isn’t just about looking good; it’s about doing good, too. With its innovative Re-Loved program, customers can trade in their old jackets for repairs or recycling, promoting sustainability while honouring the brand’s commitment to quality. Meanwhile, the Wax for Life initiative celebrates 100 years of re-waxing jackets, a testament to Barbour’s dedication to crafting garments that stand the test of time. Royal Seals of ApprovalFew brands can boast not one, but three Royal Warrants. Barbour’s relationship with British royalty began in 1974, when HRH the Duke of Edinburgh recognized the brand’s excellence. Subsequent honours from Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles III further solidify Barbour’s place in the pantheon of British heritage brands. The Barbour Way of LifeBarbour’s story is more than a tale of business success; it’s a love letter to craftsmanship, resilience, and the enduring spirit of the British countryside. Whether you’re hiking through rugged hills, navigating a city commute, or attending a music festival, Barbour’s beautifully functional designs ensure you do so with wit, grit, and glamour.Today, under the stewardship of Dame Margaret and Helen Barbour, this fifth-generation family business continues to innovate while staying true to its roots. As Barbour strides confidently into the future, one thing remains certain: the Barbour Way of Life is as timeless as the waxed jackets that started it all. So, whether you’re drawn to the brand’s rugged charm, its nods to nostalgia, or its forward-thinking approach, one thing is clear: Barbour isn’t just a jacket — it’s a lifestyle. |
View Our Barbour Range |