1950s French Workwear Leather Utility Jacket

Produced during the years of post war industrial expansion in France, this 1950s leather utility jacket reflects a period when durable outerwear was essential rather than optional. Designed for long working days in unheated spaces and exposed conditions, it carries the quiet practicality typical of mid century French workwear.

Cut slightly longer through the body with a clean straight zip front and structured collar, the silhouette is balanced and purposeful. The brown mid weight leather shows natural grain character and tonal variation throughout. Decades of wear have developed a rich patina, particularly along the sleeves and high contact areas where the surface has softened and burnished naturally. There is light age related chapping in places, entirely commensurate with age and long term use, yet the hide remains strong, supple and structurally sound with no cracking or weakness. Creasing sits honestly through the arms and body, exactly where a working garment should show it.

Construction is straightforward and durable. The original brass front zipper runs smoothly. Angled front pockets are neatly integrated into the body, while buttoned cuff adjustment tabs and rear waist adjusters provide subtle shaping and practical function. The interior retains its brown and green plaid wool lining, which remains intact and warm, with only a couple of small stitch repairs to the inner lining that are discreet and secure. This jacket originally featured a detachable fur collar and a zip out lining, both now absent, leaving a cleaner profile while retaining full wearability and structure.

The jacket has been specialist leather cleaned in the workshop, removing years of soiling and odours. It has been lightly conditioned to preserve suppleness without altering its natural character. It will arrive clean, fresh and ready to wear.

An honest and increasingly scarce example of mid century French leather workwear, preserved with care and ready for continued use.

Key Identifying Features

• 1950s French workwear leather utility jacket
• Brown mid weight leather construction
• Original brass front zipper
• Angled front hand pockets
• Buttoned cuff adjustment tabs
• Rear waist adjusters
• Brown and green plaid wool lining
• Light age related chapping commensurate with age
• Small stitch repairs to inner lining

Garment Measurements Laid Flat

• Chest (armpit to armpit): 23"
• Shoulders (seam to seam): 20
• Sleeve length (shoulder seam to cuff): 24.5"
• Sleeve length (underarm seam to cuff): 16"
• Back length (collar seam to hem): 32

Best suited to a 42 inch chest/ medium frame depending on desired fit. Please compare measurements with a similar garment to ensure correct fit.