Oftentimes, the word quilt makes one think of an old blanket. One neatly folded in the hallway closet, only to be taken out on the weekend visits to Grandma’s house. Though it’s fringing at the edges and cold and heavy, being swaddled beneath that blanket results in the best sleep you’ve ever experienced.
Those blankets, however, are being taken out of storage and making their comeback … as jackets.
Its Beginnings
The quilted jacket was first created in 1965 when Steve and Edna Gulyas decided to make a jacket that would sustain them through their favorite hobbies: hunting and fishing. This resulted in the brand Husky, which later became a staple of the UK royal family. Since then, the quilted jacket has been pulled out of closets every fall season, but this year, there’s a new look.
It is no secret that European styles heavily influenced many U.S. clothing trends in the months prior. In the early summer months, you could not turn a corner without seeing one of these jackets accompanying an outfit. However, if you asked someone in the U.S. then, there is a likely chance they have never seen this style.
The Journey Across Seas
Today, these jackets are sold in different variations in almost every large retail brand in the States. Why? Because fashion is a kaleidoscope of different ideas and cultures, never staying in one place. The art of fashion is drawn from small bursts of inspiration found all over the world.
This has always been the case, but now with social media, trends circulate like never before. Styles we see in one country now will become popular in countries on the other side of the world in a few short months, largely from how fast media can share information.
This fall, a staple piece to have in your closet is these quilted jackets. You can elevate a simple jean look or pair it with a fun pair of patterned pants. If you are looking for a plain piece, check out these items on H&M, Nordstrom or Amazon. For the more colorful and patchwork-like jackets, VALLEY recommends checking out some of our favorites on Urban Outfitters, Amazon and GDW Designs!
This addition to any outfit is a perfect way to dress up a simple dress or make your casual pumpkin patch fit all the cuter. It is lightweight so you can feel comfortable when the fall breeze blows through, but the sun is still shining down on you.
We cannot wait to see how you style this trend! Share it online and tag @VALLEYmag on Instagram to see how you inspire others with your look!