Practical short jackets were worn by workers and common men from late 18th to early 19th century. This single breasted style features stand-up collar and welt pockets. Experienced seamstresses and tailors can also alter the basic pattern to make an early 19th C. men's spencer jacket!

Sizes S-XL included (= Chest 85 - 120 cm = 34 - 48").

RH205    EURO 15.00

An anecdotic account of the development of the Spencer Jacket:

It is said that the Earl of Spencer's tailcoat once caught fire during a society event. He advised his servant to cut off the burnt tails and thus created the new fashion of a short jacket, which soon became popular amongst women as well.

Eventually men's spencer jackets are cut like Regency tailcoats - only without  or with very short tails (see below). Before 1800 the spencer is worn with breeches (exception: Incroyables and fashionale youngsters), afertwards with pantalons. It's an undress wear garment, oftenly used for leisure and sport acitivities (like hunting).

The young Incroyable pictured on the upper left wears his spencer with very short tails, while Isabey (left with his daughter, painted by François Pascal Simon Gérard, 1795) combines a short jacket without tails to his hunting outfit. A top hat and waistcoat are essentials!