Connolly Drop Back Car Gilet

Consider the gilet, that armless garment, no, actually consider it. 

Is there a more underrated fabric based symbol of belonging? From Canada Goose Freestyle for cameramen, to Gyakusou Aeroloft 800 for runners, Engineered Garments’ Upland for menswear lads, Stone Island garment dyed down filled for lads lads lads and in the country? No Schoffel, no party. 

Yet, whilst the idea of giving credit to an item of clothing is a step too far, the humble gilet is perhaps not quite given the respect it deserves. 

Form stripped back to its functional best, keeping the wearer warm whilst allowing freedom of movement. 

Subconscious symbolism aside, my choice is Connolly’s Drop Back Car Gilet in navy wool. What that says about me I do not know? Well I have an idea, but, that’s for you to infer (wannabe 90’s playboy). 

This is a clever bit of kit. With a drop back and shawl neck, it is slightly longer and more flattering than most other gilet’s. 

Made in England from 100% pure new warm wool that although dry to the touch is fine for sensitive skin. 

Bought mere moments after Connolly’s Clifford Street rebirth and worn in all weathers since, I do, as the name suggests wear it to drive but, also to do most other things. It’s a fairly constant commute companion, adding warmth under or instead of your winter coat, two way RiRi zips to play with when bored, and lacking the bulk to annoy when taken off. 

Speaking of features, a moment’s pause for the pockets, which, despite looking like they would repel any items placed in them, are ingenious. Deep enough to accommodate most trinkets and taut enough to hold them, they are a sure fire sign of a garment well designed and made.