Farmer Smock White

Sometimes the old can feel new again, and as we mould the narrative with each generation, with how we wear our garments and the things we see as appropriate, there are some surprises.
The Farmer Smock was borne out of a curiosity around home made garments of the 1800’s. Functional garments that moved from the home to the field, easily and comfortably worn with no regard to the fashions of the day.
A long pull over, with a bibbed front that has been pleated below the placket to create fullness through the body, the farmer smock is cut full, with shirred pleats at the yoke and cuff. With a small stand collar that can be pressed to a wing collar or left soft and straight, it falls mid thigh reminiscent of traditional garments from the Far East, despite its European provenance.
Worn tucked into full trousers and under a jacket it can feel the height of formality, but left untucked over trousers and sandals it has a painterly vibe, all summer days sipping mint tea on the verandah.
However you choose to style it, it is something different, but entirely functional. And it’s comfort dictates how I wear it most - as an elegant night shirt over shirt maker boxers, cashmere socks and slippers, for home wear that is just extravagant enough to sort the meek from the bold.