Modern man’s wardrobe
contains a ubiquitous tuxedo without any expectation. But, have you ever
wondered where this modern day tuxedo or “dinner jacket” came from. Well! This
has a very interesting history. Modern gentleman tuxedo which is worn on
special occasion has today evolved from smokingrobe .
Tracing the roots
It all began during 18th century after England won the
Crimean War. This made fine Turkish tobacco available in England. Now, the
Englishmen were smoking more than usual and at the same time making the smoking
popular. But soon they realized that the fumes of pipes or cigar were damaging
their precious clothes. It became a necessity to make an outfit that would
protect their valuable clothes from ashes and odor of the cigars. So, that
requirement gave birth to Smokers robe .
The classical smoking jacket was mid-thigh length attire made out of silk or
fine wool. Within no time, this outfit became popular among the elite people in
England who used to don their colorful smoking jackets while relaxing with
friends in evening parties. It gained a position of vanity item for a
gentleman, and people were eager to get themselves portrayed wearing a silk robe de chamber.
New Tends
In the coming years, the influence and popularity of the smoking
jacket gradually diminished. New tuxedos and suits took over. Very soon smoking
jackets were out of the men’s wardrobe. They could now be seen only in old
movies or oil paintings.
Reviving the old fashion
Anything that combines form and function can never be out of
fashion. So is in the case of smokers robe. They are getting back to
gentlemen’s wardrobe with new look and texture. Traditional material has taken
over the newer one to fit in today’s modern life. They are introduced in new color variations
to suit every mood.
Smokers robes were there in the past and have been making a
comeback again. Now, a symbol of debaucherous lifestyle is finding a place in
modern men’s closet.
Smoking is injurious to health but wearing smoking robe is
definitely a sign of prosperity!
