1960’s Vintage Wool Flannel Plaid Shirt Jacket
•A Closet Staple•
Made in the USA
Fits Men’s/Unisex Size: Medium
Tagged Size: n/a (interior tags removed)
Color: Beige/Cream, Brown & Mustard
Pattern: Plaid
Material: 100% Heavyweight Woven Wool Flannel
Bust: 21” flat
Length: 29”
Shoulders: 18”
Sleeve: 23”
Brand: Unknown (no label)
- nautical anchor buttons
- interior neck locker loop
- dual pointed flap chest button pockets
- full button-down front
- rounded hem
- 1-button sleeve hem
- nylon lined collar, placket & pocket flaps
- military inspired
Good vintage condition with signs of wear. I mended a small hole that was on the back shoulder. There are some small discolorations work stains - nothing major - see all photos.
There are no interior brand, size or material tags.
MORE INFO:
What is a CPO Overshirt Jacket?
The story of the CPO jacket begins in the 1930s, when the U.S. Navy introduced it as part of the standard uniform for Chief Petty Officers. Officers needed a piece of clothing that could withstand harsh maritime conditions without sacrificing flexibility. Sailors needed to be able to complete their physically demanding tasks while staying warm.
The earliest iterations of the CPO jacket were made from heavyweight wool, a fabric known for its ability to retain heat even when wet. (Perfect for enduring drenching storms and tossing waves). The jacket’s design was simple but functional: it featured two large chest pockets — one with a button closure — and a straight, boxy fit that allowed for layering over uniforms.
After World War II, veterans brought their jackets home, where they were just as useful for life on land as they had been at sea. The durable wool and comfortable fit made the CPO jacket ideal for outdoor work, particularly in cold-weather regions like the Northeastern U.S., where it quickly became a favorite among fishermen, dock workers, and outdoor laborers who needed a reliable jacket for braving the elements.
By the 1960s and 1970s, the CPO jacket had gained widespread popularity among outdoor enthusiasts. Hikers, hunters, and campers were drawn to its simple design and reliable warmth. Military surplus stores, long depleted, couldn’t meet the demand for this adventure essential.
Civilian brands were quick to meet the surging demand. Designers were attracted to the CPO’s rugged charm and saw its potential as a fashion staple. Fabrics, colors, and patterns expanded.
