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Barbour - Our Archive Re-Imagined

Since 1894, we have drawn deeply on our rich archives to inspire timeless collections that blend heritage with contemporary style. Every stitch tells a story - rooted in the rugged landscapes of the British countryside and the spirit of durability and craftsmanship. By revisiting iconic designs and reimagining them for today's world, we continue to honour our legacy while evolving with each new generation.

This season, our designs take the iconic Solway Waxed Jacket as a central source of inspiration, designed to exemplify our enduring commitment to craftsmanship, functionality, and timeless style. It's distinctive detailing, practical silhouette, and heritage appeal have been thoughtfully reinterpreted throughout the collection - honouring tradition while evolving for the modern wearer.

Our Heritage

The Solway Firth, a rugged stretch of coastline that marks the border between England and Scotland, is deeply woven into the Barbour story. It was across this very border that our founder, John Barbour, journeyed - from Dumfries to South Shields - laying the foundations for a legacy rooted in craftsmanship, resilience, and the spirit of the British countryside.

Archive Image of Solway Waxed Jacket Catalogue

The Solway Waxed Jacket

The Solway Jacket draws its name from the dramatic landscapes of the Solway Firth. First introduced in 1957 and officially appearing in the Barbour catalogue by 1960, the original Solway Jacket quickly established itself as a versatile staple for life in the British countryside. Crafted in robust 8oz Beacon Thornproof waxed cotton, it was designed to withstand the elements - equally suited to walking the moors as it was to sporting pursuits.

Recognised for its three large outside pockets which featured special protective flaps, a large internal pocket and foldaway hood, the Solway became a trusted companion for generations remaining a core part of our collection until its retirement in the 1990s.

Archive Catalogue Image of the Solway Jacket

Past meets present.

This season, we’ve reintroduced the Solway Jacket from our archive - honouring its storied past while re-imagining it for today. Meticulously updated, it blends timeless craftsmanship with contemporary design sensibilities, offering a fresh perspective on a true classic. Discover the evolved Solway, redefined for the modern wardrobe.

The Modified Solway Wax

The Solway jacket shot at its origin.

First introduced in 1960, the original Solway was built for the outdoors – rugged, reliable, and ready for anything. This season, we’ve given it a fresh twist without losing its roots. Crafted from hard-wearing 6oz Sylkoil waxed cotton, it’s finished with our signature corduroy collar, a detachable hood, and spacious bellow pockets – built to stash everything from dog treats to train tickets.

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The Solway Waxed Trench

Engineered to last.

The Barbour Solway Trench Waxed Coat breathes new life into a heritage icon. Inspired by the original Solway Waxed Jacket from our archives, this modern revival is crafted from robust 6oz waxed cotton – made to weather the elements with effortless style. A fixed hood, chest pocket, and generous side-entry pockets bring functional design to the forefront, while its timeless silhouette nods to decades of outdoor tradition.

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The Campbell Graphic Tee

Mr Solway. Borrowed from 1960.

The Campbell Oversized Graphic T-Shirt puts a playful twist on our archive styles with the Mr Solway character. This character was developed from archival Solway prints, wearing a Solway Waxed Jacket to finish.

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The Modified Solway Wax