Did you see Sherlock, the BBC adaptation of the Sherlock Holmes stories, recently? Do you remember that dramatic, sweeping, Sherlockian coat he wears? Well, that’s a Belstaff piece and it’s set to bring this classic British brand back into focus.
Sherlock is normally known for his uncanny powers of deduction and precise turn of phrase. This time he’s gaining somewhat of a reputation for being the dandy too, with a dapper wardrobe to challenge the new Doctor Who, another fine vintage-styled chap.
The Milford coat, by Belstaff, features in all three episodes of the finely written first series. It’s not cheap at £1,350, but the quality of Belstaff is such that you can guarantee their garments will last you a lifetime.
Belstaff is a brand with great heritage. It was founded in 1924 in Stoke-on-Trent, England, by Harry Grosberg. The original line consisted of waterproof garments for men and women. It developed wax cotton, and became a pioneer in the creation of safety wear for motorcyclists. By the Thirties, Belstaff was making outer garments and accessories for aviators, bikers, the army and anyone living an outdoor life.
In 1943 Belstaff created the iconic “Black Prince Motorcycle Jacket”, the best-selling waterproof jacket of all time. Made using traditional English manufacturing methods, Black Prince jackets will hold their value, and early pieces are very collectable.
Sherlock isn’t the first time Belstaff has hit the screen. The brand dressed Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman for the motorcycle trek in Long Way Down.Belstaff jackets have been worn by Hollywood movie stars including Leo DiCaprio, Tom Cruise and Will Smith, on movies such as Mission Impossible, The Aviator and I Am Legend.
We bow down in awe at the craftsmanship and heritage incorporated in every Belstaff product, and relish it’s long-lasting appeal. A Belstaff jacket would make a great cycling choice too, especially for its combination of safety features and stylishness.
It’s perhaps not surprising that Sherlock Holmes has chosen a brand that incorporates Slow Fashion principles. It’s simply logical, no?
