The Duchess and the Dandy; celebrities and their wax jackets

Wax jacket enthusiasts generally fall into two distinct categories, each with their own compelling reasons for choosing these timeless garments.

The first category comprises those who value the jacket's functional qualities above all else. These are the countryside enthusiasts and outdoor professionals  such as farmers or hunters who require a dependable companion that offers both durability and practicality.

They need a coat that won't fail them in the elements, complete with those essential generous pockets for all manner of countryside necessities. I must confess, dear reader, that I count myself among this practical lot. 

Barbour Tartan Ashby. Image credit: Barbour

The second category consists of those who view the wax jacket as a statement piece. Here we find celebrities and fashion-conscious individuals who frequent the upmarket shopping districts of larger cities, ‘to be seen’ either displaying their refined taste or, dare I say, their well-lined pockets and back accounts. 

However, whether you align yourself with either camp is rather beside the point. The humbling truth is that these magnificent jackets will likely outlive us all, changing hands several times throughout their distinguished existence on this planet. With this sobering thought in mind, allow me to introduce you to some notable celebrity wax jacket aficionados - style icons, luminaries, and nobility alike.

1. Daniel Craig, arguably one of the finest James Bond portrayals we've seen, sports a splendid Barbour "X To Ki To" in Skyfall. It was a rather limited edition, and not for sale anymore. Or at least, not for a reasonable price.

2. The talented Natalie Portman graces the screen in Thor wearing a beautifully patinated Barbour Beadnell - perhaps one of the finest examples of the brand's craftsmanship.

3. David Beckham, one of football's most stylish exports, frequently dons various wax jackets, including both Belstaff and Barbour pieces.

4. Benedict Cumberbatch, celebrated for his role in the brilliant "The Imitation Game", often appears in a rather fetching blue Barbour Bristol.

5. The entire British Royal Family, and associates, consider wax jackets essential attire - when not engaged in formal duties such as cutting ribbons or fighting for their raison d'etre, naturally.

6. Alexa Chung, the model and fashion maven, frequently pairs vintage Barbour jackets with Wellington boots and dresses, creating an enviably effortless look.

7. The late Steve McQueen, the undisputed "King of Cool", was often spotted in a magnificent wax jacket - inspiring Barbour to create a dedicated collection in his honour.

8. James Norton, known for his sterling performance as John Brooke in "Little Women", is a devoted enthusiast of wax jackets and British country style.

9. Tom Cruise dons an impressive Driza-Bone Lasso Waxed Cotton Canvas Jacket in one of his blockbusters - an excellent choice from the Australian manufacturer.

10. Actor Laurence Fox occasionally sports a wonderfully worn-in wax jacket of what I believe is a Belstaff- and truly, these coats are at their most beautiful when they've acquired some character.

11. Helen Mirren, the queen of the silver screen, is renowned for her appreciation of these classic coats, and one imagines her wardrobe must house quite the collection.

12. Jeremy Clarkson, presumably Britain's best-known farmer and car critic, is often seen wearing a wax jacket.

    
    

13. Tom Hardy, who has played roles in series I have almost without exception watched with great pleasure, is often seen wearing various wax jackets.