The safari jacket traverses the ages without ever losing its splendor. An iconic piece of both women's and men's wardrobes, it embodies utilitarian elegance — that garment which unites function with form, military rigor with contemporary fluidity. At Coulange, it is a signature.
A story born in the desert
The safari jacket finds its origins in the colonial uniforms of the early 20th century. Designed for officers stationed in arid regions, it was distinguished by its four patch pockets, its adjustable belt, and its loose cut allowing freedom of movement. The fabric was light yet resistant — often linen or thick cotton — capable of withstanding the heat while protecting from the sun.
In the 1960s, Yves Saint Laurent brought it into civilian fashion. He made it a centerpiece of his Saharienne collection, diverting it from its military function to reveal its incredible aesthetic potential. Since then, it has never left the runways or the dressing rooms.
What makes a true safari jacket?
An authentic safari jacket is recognised by several signatures:
- The four patch pockets — two on the chest, two at the waist. They are not decorative: they structure the silhouette and create that visual balance which gives the garment all its strength.
- The belt — often tied rather than buckled, it allows you to adjust the cut and define the waist.
- The officer collar — straight, sharp, it gives that immediate bearing that elevates any outfit.
- The epaulettes — discreet but present, they reinforce the shoulders without weighing them down.
- The material — linen, cotton, gabardine or cashmere. The safari jacket lives in noble materials.
How to wear the safari jacket today
For her
The women's safari jacket is worn over raw denim and a white t-shirt for an impeccable everyday look. Over a flowing dress, it creates a contrast of textures that makes all the style. Worn open over a silk camisole, it becomes the centerpiece of a casual evening outfit. The belt tied at the back — a gesture borrowed from trench coats — refines the silhouette while keeping the jacket in place.
Sand, khaki, and beige tones are the great classics. A white linen safari jacket, worn in summer, is a statement in itself. For winter, the cashmere or wool cloth version slips under a coat without losing an ounce of character.
For him
The men's safari jacket works on the same principle as the bomber: it's the piece that finishes an outfit. Over chinos and an oxford shirt, it advantageously replaces the blazer. Worn over a fine turtleneck in winter, it creates a layering that has presence without being pompous.
The water-repellent gabardine versions convince with their functionality — rain slides off, style remains. The cashmere version transforms the safari jacket into a lightweight coat for mid-season.
Why choose a Coulange safari jacket
Since 1918, Maison Coulange has crafted jackets and coats in the purest French tradition. Each safari jacket is cut and assembled in our workshop, by hands that know the right gesture. The materials — French linen, long-fibre cotton, exceptional cashmere — are chosen for their hold, their drape, their ability to stand the test of time.
A Coulange safari jacket is not a purchase. It is the beginning of a long story. Each piece is guaranteed for life — because we know it deserves it.
Caring for your safari jacket
Linen is worn, washed, ironed — and improves with the years. A 30°C wash, air drying, and it gains suppleness with each season.
Cashmere requires a little more attention: hand wash in cold water, dry flat, and it will reward you for twenty years. Avoid the tumble dryer and direct sunlight — cashmere likes neither brutal heat nor prolonged UV.
Water-repellent gabardine cleans with a damp sponge. For deep cleaning, entrust it to a trusted dry cleaner.
The safari jacket in the contemporary wardrobe
What gives the safari jacket its strength today is its ability to be everything at once: utilitarian and elegant, masculine and feminine, timeless and perfectly current. It's worn as well with sneakers as with derbies, with jeans as with a skirt. It doesn't go out of fashion because it was never a fashion — it's a wardrobe foundation piece, like the trench, like the peacoat.
Discover our safari jacket collection →
Also discover our safari jumpsuit and dress collection and our men's safari jacket collection.