In the ever-evolving tapestry of men's fashion, a remarkable chapter unfolds with the origin of the Cab Coat, often hailed as the Gab Coat or Ricky Jacket. Rooted in the soil of the 1930s, a period marked by the emergence of "sportswear," this distinctive garment was destined to become a timeless classic.
Picture the era when the term "sportswear" breathed life into the concept of casual, dressed-down attire. It was an age when action-back sportcoats, casual suits, polo shirts, and an array of jackets made their debut in an array of fabrics. Among these, gabardine, a twilled wool fabric synonymous with trenchcoats, took centre stage.
Gabardine, depending on its weight, could be as light as a whisper or as robust as a protector against the elements. It's this unique quality that birthed the iconic Gab Coat, later christened the "Ricky Jacket." Initially employed as workwear, these jackets swiftly transitioned into the realm of sportswear, becoming the go-to piece for a casual yet refined layering.
The design was simple yet enduring: button latch sleeves, two pockets (flapped-patch or regular), a zipper front, and a sharp collar. The versatility of these jackets was unmatched; whether paired with a tie after work or layered over sports shirts, they exuded a timeless charm.
Over the years, subtle variations graced the design landscape. Collars transitioned from their largest in the 1940s to shorter renditions in the 60s. Shoulder padding and quilted linings added nuanced character. Khaki versions became iconic, but the Gab Jackets unfurled in a spectrum of colours and prints.
Made in India
