The Harrington jacket: an iconic garment through the ages

What is a Harrington jacket?

The Harrington jacket is a lightweight, fitted jacket with a zip fastening, usually made from cotton, polyester or a mixture of the two. Characteristic of the Harrington jacket are the chequered lining, often in a tartan pattern, the elasticated cuffs and hem and the slanted pockets with flaps. The jacket is both functional and stylish and became popular in the 1960s.

History

Die Harrington Jacke wurde in den 1930er Jahren von John und Isaac Miller, den Gründern des britischen Unternehmens Baracuta, entworfen. Ursprünglich als G9 bekannt, war die Jacke für Golfer konzipiert, die eine leichte, wasserabweisende Jacke benötigten, die genügend Bewegungsfreiheit bot. Der Name “Harrington” wurde in den 1960er Jahren durch die amerikanische Fernsehserie “Peyton Place” populär, in der der Charakter Rodney Harrington, gespielt von Ryan O’Neal, oft eine solche Jacke trug.

Pop culture and subcultures

Die Harrington Jacke fand schnell ihren Weg in die Popkultur und wurde von Ikonen wie Elvis Presley und Steve McQueen getragen. Presley trug eine Harrington Jacke im Film “King Creole” (1958), und McQueen machte sie in “The Thomas Crown Affair” (1968) berühmt. Diese Verbindungen zu Hollywood-Stars verliehen der Jacke einen Status als modisches Statement.

In the 1970s and 1980s, the Harrington jacket was adopted by various subcultures. It was particularly popular with British mods, who combined it with slim trousers and polo shirts. Later, it was also worn by skinheads and punks, who used the jacket as an expression of their rebellion and individual style.

Brands such as Ben Sherman and Fred Perry have also been instrumental in keeping the Harrington jacket popular in these subcultures by combining classic designs with modern elements

Harrington jacket in today's world

Today, the Harrington jacket is a timeless garment worn by people of all ages and styles. It remains a staple of many fashion brands and comes in a variety of colours and materials.

The versatility of the Harrington jacket makes it an ideal choice for different occasions, whether casual or more formal. Its lightweight yet robust construction makes it ideal for changeable weather.

Summary

The Harrington jacket has a rich history and is deeply rooted in various cultures and subcultures. From its beginnings as a golf jacket in the 1930s to its status as a fashion icon in the 1960s and its popularity in various subcultures, it remains a symbol of style, functionality and timeless elegance. Thanks to brands such as Baracuta, Fred Perry and Ben Sherman, which continue the tradition of the Harrington jacket while giving it a modern interpretation, this garment remains an indispensable part of the fashion world.

What are creepers?

Creepers, also known as brothel creepers, are flat leather shoes with thick, soft crepe soles that are often up to 5 centimetres thick and have vertical grooves. These shoes, usually laced, are often made of suede. Nowadays, however, the shoe is also available in smooth leather and a wide variety of colours and designs. Their design and texture make them a striking fashion item that is particularly popular in subcultures and is always on trend.

History

Picture: George Cox Footwear

The origins of creeper shoes go back to the time after the Second World War, when British soldiers returned to London from North Africa. There they wore suede boots with thick rubber soles made by Egyptian and Burmese shoemakers. Called "Brothel Creepers" at the time, the shoes found their way into civilian life thanks to the veterans and were allegedly often spotted in the red light district of Soho, hence the name.

In 1949, the company George Cox Footwear the first fashionable version of the creepers was launched on the market, which became known as the "Hamilton". These shoes were manufactured in George Cox's factory in Wellingborough and quickly became popular.

Teddy boys and punks

In the 1950s, creepers were particularly popular with the Teddy Boys, a British youth culture. This culture was characterised by flamboyant clothing and a penchant for rock 'n' roll. Creepers became an integral part of their look, which combined elegant Edwardian fashion with rebellious elements.

In the 1970s, Creepers experienced a rebirth through the influence of Malcolm McLaren and Vivienne Westwoodwhich she sells in her London shop "Let it Rock" were sold. The shoes quickly became an important element of the emerging punk scene, worn by bands such as the Sex Pistols.

Creepers became a key element of the punk rock look. As punk evolved into new wave and post-punk, new styles gained popularity such as less extreme rockabilly styles worn by artists like Elvis Costello, Squeeze and Madness.

"Not just the UK, but throughout the world, where pioneers such as Blue Moon in Germany, John Fluevog in Canada, Let it Rock in the USA, Figgins in Australia, Booster in Switzerland and American Import Export in Italy were introducing British subculture to their respective markets."

Quote from the Website of George Cox

 

Creeper in the modern age

In the 1990s, creepers became popular again thanks to celebrity wearers such as the Spice Girls and Gwen Stefani. In the 2010s to 2020s, they experienced another renaissance, worn by artists and celebrities such as Rihanna, The Weeknd, Rita Ora, Katy Perry and Miley Cyrus.

In fact, Rihanna was so inspired by the Creeper that she launched a joint shoe collection with Puma in 2015 called Puma Creeper which was honoured as shoe of the year in 2016.

Today, creepers are not only an integral part of the fashion world, but also a symbol of style and rebellion. They are appreciated by various subcultures and fashion-conscious individuals and can be seen both on the street and on the catwalks. Brands such as George Cox and Steelgrounds continue to set the standard in the production of these iconic shoes.

Picture: George Cox Footwear

Buy Creeper

Irene and Pierre Montandon, the Founder of Boosterwere probably the first to import and sell the iconic shoe in Switzerland. To this day, the Creeper is an integral part of our range, which has continued to enjoy great popularity over the years. Including, of course, the Creeper from George Coxwhich are still "Made in England" today, but also less expensive models from Steelgrounds or T.U.K Footwear.

Click here for our Creeper range!

A short intro to the types of loafers

Loafers are a firm favourite in the world of fashion. With their versatile appeal and effortless elegance, they have found a permanent place in many people's shoe wardrobes over the years. In this section, we take a look at the different types of loafers, their characteristic features and historical origins.

Types of loafers and their characteristic features

Whether tassel, penny or horsebit, each type of loafer has its own unique characteristics. Tassel loafers are characterised by their decorative tassels, penny loafers have a distinctive strap over the instep and horsebit loafers are known for their metal buckle detail (often the typical Gucci design).

The historical origins and development of loafers

The history of loafers goes back a long way. Originally intended as a simple slipper, the loafer has evolved over the years to become a stylish part of modern footwear.

The unique contribution of loafers to the fashion world

From casual Fridays at the office to relaxed Sunday brunches, loafers have proven that they can be both formal and casual. They offer a perfect balance between comfort and style.

1st tassel loafer

Solovair Tassel Loafer

The Tassel loaferor in German, the Men's shoes with tasselsThe tassel shoe has its origins in the 1950s and has been an integral part of fashion ever since. This shoe is characterised by the small tassels on the front, which give it its name. As a rule, tassel loafers are slip-on shoes with a flat heel and thin sole.

Style counselling

Thanks to their classic look, tassel loafers go well with both formal and casual outfits:

• Formal: Combine your tassel loafers with a suit for a smart business look. A dark loafer goes well with a navy blue or charcoal grey suit.
• Casual: For a relaxed look, wear your loafers with chinos or jeans. A light brown or blue loafer looks great with light-coloured trousers and a casual shirt.

2. penny loafer

Vagabond Penny Loafer

Features and style advice for penny loafers

The Penny Loafera classic men's loafer with a strap and cut-out, is a shoe fashion icon. This shoe is characterised by the "penny slot" in the leather strap above the instep. Originally, this was used as a practical place to keep a small amount of money.

• Materials: Leather types such as calfskin or suede are popular.
• Colours: From black and brown to bolder colours such as burgundy red or navy blue.
• Soles: Vary from thin leather soles to thicker rubber soles for more durability.

Styling tips:

• Formal: Combine penny loafers with suits or fine chinos for the office or events.
• Casual: They go just as well with jeans or shorts for a relaxed look.

The timeless elegance of the penny loafer over time

Since its creation in the 1930s, the penny loafer has constantly evolved without losing its elegant lines and minimalist design. Its versatility makes it a favourite for any wardrobe.

Famous wearers of the penny loafer

Numerous icons, from film stars like James Dean to former presidents, have worn the penny loafer, cementing its status as a stylish must-have. Women like Audrey Hepburn have also elegantly styled this type of shoe, emphasising its unisex appeal.

3. horsebit loafer (Gucci Loafers)

Vagabond Horsebit Loafer

Introduced in the 1950s, the Horsebit loafer a luxurious side to the loafer style. Made famous by designer brands such as Guccithis loafer style is characterised by a striking metal design element - the Horsebit or horse bit.

Characterised by its smooth leather construction and the distinctive metal piece above the vamp, the horsebit loafer offers a unique blend of casual and formal. It is available in classic colours such as brown or black as well as in more modern variations with colourful metal details and elaborate embroidery.

Other types of loafers

Aside from tassel, penny and horsebit loafers, there are a variety of other styles that bring just as much charm and style to men's fashion. Two such styles are the Kiltie loafer and the Boot Loafer.

The Kiltie loafer originally comes from Scotland and is characterised by its distinctive fringing - also known as a "kiltie". These fringes are usually made of leather or suede and give the shoe a unique and unmistakable look. Despite its Scottish roots, the kiltie loafer has found its way into international fashion and is now available in many different colours, materials and designs.

Another interesting style is the Boot Loafera combination of boat shoe and loafer. This type of shoe combines the casual elegance of a boat shoe with the comfort and convenience of a loafer. It is ideal for outdoor leisure activities or for any occasion where a relaxed but stylish look is required.

The versatility of these different types of loafers shows once again how flexible and changeable the world of men's shoes can be. From formal to casual, from traditional to modern - there is a loafer for every taste and every occasion.

The importance of craftsmanship for loafers

Loafers are not only a fashion statement, but also a testimony to European craftsmanship. The quality of loafers is closely linked to the traditional shoemaking skills used in their production. Here are some reasons why the craftsmanship of loafers is so important:

Precision and attention to detail

The craft of shoemaking requires a high degree of precision and attention to detail. From the selection of materials to the assembly of individual components, every step must be carried out carefully to ensure a high-quality end product.

Handmade uniqueness

In contrast to mass production, loafers are made by hand. Each pair is unique and demonstrates the craftsmanship of the shoemaker. This handmade uniqueness gives the loafers a special charm and value.

Durability and comfort

By using high-quality materials and careful craftsmanship, handmade loafers are often more durable and comfortable than their machine-made counterparts. The shoemakers place great importance on fit, cushioning and sole construction to ensure maximum comfort for the wearer.

Preservation of traditional techniques

The traditional craft of shoemaking has a long history and is part of our cultural heritage. By purchasing handmade loafers, you support the preservation of these traditional techniques and contribute to the continuation of the craft.

It is important to note that the quality of loafers depends not only on the shoemaker's craftsmanship, but also on the choice of high-quality materials and the care taken at every step of the manufacturing process. By opting for handmade loafers, you can be sure that you are purchasing a product of the highest quality that is both stylish and durable.

Tips for choosing and caring for loafers

When buying loafers, there are some important factors to consider to ensure you find the right pair for your style and comfort. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:

1. materials

Choose high-quality materials such as leather or suede to ensure your loafers are durable and comfortable.

2. fit

The right fit is crucial for the comfort of your loafers. Make sure that your toes have enough room and that the shoe is not too tight on the back of your foot but does not slip off either.

3. style

Choose a style that suits your personal taste and style of dress. Tassel loafers, for example, are more formal, while penny loafers are more versatile and can be worn with both formal and casual outfits.

Once you've found your perfect loafers, it's important to look after them properly to prolong their life. Here are some care tips:

1. cleaning

Regularly remove dust and dirt from your loafers with a soft brush or cloth. If necessary, also use special cleaning products for leather or suede.

2. impregnation & leather wax

Protect your loafers from moisture by treating them regularly with a waterproofing spray. This helps to repel stains and water marks. Use leather wax to nourish the leather.

3. shoe tree

Use shoe trees to maintain the shape of your loafers and prevent creasing. This is particularly important if you do not wear your loafers for a long time.

4. storage

Store your loafers in a clean and well-ventilated area to prevent mould growth. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources, as these can damage the leather.

By following these tips for choosing and caring for loafers, you can ensure that your loafers are both stylish and durable and will last you a long time. So let's get started - find your perfect pair and rock the loafer look!

You can find more tips on caring for leather shoes here!

You can find our range of loafer shoes here!

Caring for leather shoes is not just a question of aesthetics, but above all of longevity and comfort. High-quality leather shoes such as Loafer, Low shoes and Chelsea boots deserve special attention. Here are the reasons:

• Longer shelf lifeRegular care preserves the elasticity of the leather and prevents premature cracking

• Weather resistanceWell nourished leather is water repellent and keeps your feet dry.

• Aesthetics preservedLeather wax ensures a lasting shine and a supple surface so that your shoes still look like new even after years.

• Comfort: Well-maintained leather adapts better to the shape of the foot and is therefore more comfortable to wear.

Unkempt leather shoes, on the other hand, become brittle, the material cracks and they lose their shape. Stains and watermarks can set in - the shoe looks worn out more quickly and is more likely to break. With the right care routine, you can avoid these problems and wear your high-quality shoes for many years to come.

Different types of leather shoes and their specific care

Not all leather is the same. Different Leather types require customised care methods to maintain their quality and appearance. The following types of leather are most commonly found in shoes:

Smooth leather

Smooth leather is characterised by its smooth surface and is one of the most popular types of leather for shoes. Care includes:

• Regular cleaning
• Apply shoe polish or wax to nourish the material and protect it from external influences.
• In some cases impregnation spray

Suede leather

Suede, also known as suede, has a velvety surface and is particularly susceptible to stains and wear. The care of this material includes:

• Use of special brushes for cleaning
• Use of foam cleaners to remove stains
• In some cases impregnation spray

Suede leather

Suede is similar to suede, but has a rougher texture. The care of this material requires:

• Special brushes for cleaning
• Sprays to refresh the colour and protect against moisture.
• In some cases impregnation spray

Patent leather

Patent leather is a leather with a lacquered surface, which is covered with a shiny and smooth film. Patent leather often only requires a damp cloth for cleaning. When using waterproofing sprays, make sure that they do not contain solvents. This can attack the lacquer coating and leave matt stains.

• Clean with a damp cotton cloth and warm water
• Special care to nourish the patent leather
• In some cases impregnation spray
• No brushes!

The need for customised treatment is based on the fact that every material reacts differently to moisture, dirt and mechanical stress. The reaction to care products also varies. Careful selection of the right products is crucial for maintaining the appearance and longevity of your leather shoes.

It is generally advisable to test new care products in a small amount on a non-visible area of the shoes to see how the material reacts to the product.

Step-by-step guide to caring for leather shoes

Proper care of your leather shoes is crucial to prolonging their life and keeping them looking their best. A comprehensive routine includes cleaning, conditioning and waterproofing. Here is a detailed guide:

1. Preparation

Before you start, remove coarse dirt with a soft brush. Remove the laces so that you can reach all areas of the leather.

2. Cleaning leather shoes

• Dry cleaningBrush the shoe thoroughly to remove dust and dirt.
• Moist cleaningUse a slightly damp cloth to gently clean the leather.
• DryingAllow the shoes to air dry, but not in direct sunlight or next to a heat source.

3. Grease leather shoes (conditioning)

• Selection of productsChoose a suitable leather cream or wax. We usually recommend beeswax-based products to our customers. There are coloured or colour-neutral products.
• ApplyApply a small amount of the product to a clean cloth and massage it into the leather in circular movements. If necessary, also use a brush.
• Allow to take effectGive the leather time to absorb the care products before you put the shoes back on. It is best to leave the shoes to soak in overnight.

4. Impregnating leather shoes

• Protection from moisture and dirtWaterproofing spray protects against water and facilitates future cleaning processes.
• ApplicationSpray the waterproofing agent evenly onto the cleaned and conditioned leather, keeping a distance of about 30 cm. You do not need to completely soak the shoe in the spray.
• DryingAfter treatment, the shoes should be allowed to dry thoroughly again.

Caution: With chrome-free tanned leather, an impregnation spray may attack the leather. Clarify this in advance or test the spray on a concealed area first.

This care routine not only preserves the appearance of your leather shoes, but also makes them more resistant to daily wear and tear. Regular use of these methods will significantly extend the life of your valuable shoes.

Special tips for the care of suede shoes

Suede, also known as suede, is characterised by its velvety surface. This material gives shoes a special aesthetic, but it can present challenges when it comes to cleaning and care. It is therefore important to know how to Suede leather can treat.

Why is the care of suede shoes so challenging?

Suede is particularly susceptible to stains and water damage. Its rough structure attracts dirt particles and absorbs liquids quickly. Without the right treatment, these factors can severely impair the appearance of your shoes.

How do you remove stains from suede surfaces?

To remove stains:

1. Carefully brush off the dry dirt.
2. Use a special suede eraser for stubborn stains.
3. If the stain is still visible, moisten a sponge and apply a small amount of suede soap.
4. Rub the sponge carefully over the stain.

Remember to allow your shoes to dry completely afterwards.

How do you freshen up the surface of suede shoes?

Over time, suede can lose its velvety lustre. To restore it:

1. Use a special suede brush to straighten the fibres.
2. Spray your shoes with a suede renovator spray to refresh the colour.
3. Leave the shoes to dry.

It is important to always be careful and patient when caring for suede shoes. Avoid over-wetting or over-brushing your shoes as this can damage the material. However, with the right techniques and products, your suede shoes can look and feel great for a long time.

Recommended products for leather shoe care

The right choice of shoe care products is crucial for the preservation and appearance of your leather shoes. Here are the essential products that no shoe care kit should be without:

1. Shoe polish

It moisturises, refreshes the colour and makes the leather supple. Make sure you choose a cream that matches the colour of your shoes. Or buy a colourless shoe polish.

2. Hard wax

After applying shoe polish, hard wax provides an additional protective film and makes your shoes shine. It is particularly useful for areas subject to heavy wear.

3. Waterproofing spray

To protect your leather shoes from water and dirt, a waterproofing spray is useful. It forms a water-repellent barrier and should be used regularly.

4. Leather soap

For thorough cleaning, we recommend using a special leather soap that removes dirt without damaging the material.

Often, however, simply greasing your leather shoes regularly with a good shoe wax is enough!

Tips for selecting high-quality products

High-quality products can significantly extend the life of your leather shoes. Here are some tips for quality assurance:

• Check ingredientsNatural ingredients such as Beeswax are often better for the leather and more environmentally friendly.

• Feedback from other customersOnline reviews and testimonials can help to assess the effectiveness of the products.

• Use counsellingSpecialist staff in shoe shops can give you valuable tips on which products are best suited to your shoe type. Simply drop by our shop and let our staff explain the process to you in detail.

Vegan alternatives for leather shoe care

If you want to avoid animal products when caring for your shoes, you can now find a wide range of vegan leather shoe alternatives. Brands such as Buffalo have specialised in producing fashionable and sustainable shoes that do not contain any animal ingredients. These shoes are often made from artificial leather, which is made from synthetic or plant-based materials.

For the care of vegan imitation leather shoes it is important to use products that have been specially developed for the needs of these materials. Here are a few points on vegan shoe care:

• Use Cleaning agentswhich are free from animal ingredients and suitable for artificial leather.

• Choose Care creams and spraysthat are explicitly labelled as vegan.

• Make sure that the Waterproofing spray is vegan to protect your shoes from moisture and dirt.

The selection of vegan care products is constantly growing and offers a good alternative for anyone who values ethically responsible fashion. These products can be used to effectively clean and protect vegan shoes so that they stay beautiful for a long time.

Again, test the care products on a small area first before rubbing/spraying the entire shoe with them.

Have it done by a professional: service by a shoemaker

Sometimes the best decision is to turn to a Shoemaker to ensure the durability and appearance of your leather shoes.

Why go to a shoemaker?

A shoemaker has the necessary expertise to professionally assess and treat material fatigue and signs of wear. They also have years of experience in what works and how to restore a shoe to its former glory.

He can also glue areas that are coming loose, sew cracks and much more. The price of such a shoe service can range from around CHF 15 - 30.

We also work closely with our neighbouring shoemaker Fera together to carry out repairs and services.

Conclusion

Whether loafers, boots or low shoes, the basic principles remain the same. Clean, condition and waterproof your leather shoes regularly to keep them in top condition.

Especially before the winter months, it makes sense to take care of your shoes once again, as salted roads after snowfall are particularly hard on the leather.

Vintage dresses

Get your exclusive second-hand vintage piece to mix and match, as an accessory or as a collector's item. According to the motto renew and reduce: Come by now and secure selected vintage pieces - new in the Booster Secondhand Vintage Corner at our Niederdorf store in Zurich!

Secondhand clothes

You can now find a wide range of second-hand clothes on the upper floor among our selection of shoes. Whether it's an 80's ski suit, snakeskin print flare trousers or simply a cool pair of sunglasses. Let us surprise you. We have fair prices and a constantly changing selection, so it's best to come by regularly to get hold of the best pieces