Barbour: A Brand Built on British Heritage

Few clothing brands can claim the kind of unbroken legacy that Barbour has. Founded in South Shields in 1894 by John Barbour, the company started life outfitting dock workers and fishermen with tough, wax-proofed oilskin garments capable of handling the harshest British weather. More than 130 years later, the brand still manufactures many of its iconic waxed jackets at its factory in Simonside; the same town where it all began.

That story matters, because it's baked into every stitch. When you pick up a Barbour piece, you're buying something with genuine provenance. The brand has been worn by everyone from farmers and gamekeepers to Steve McQueen and the British royal family. It crosses subcultures, generations and dress codes with remarkable ease.

Why We Recommend Barbour

1. Quality that outlasts trends

Barbour garments are built to a standard that fast fashion simply can't touch, and that applies across the whole collection, from waxed jackets and quilted coats to knitwear and shirting. The waxed cotton used in their classic jackets is a proprietary blend that has been refined over decades, and the same commitment to durable materials runs through the rest of the range. Properly cared for, a Barbour piece can last for decades.

2. Versatile style that works across occasions

One of Barbour's great strengths is its ability to move between contexts. A Bedale or Beaufort jacket looks equally at home on a muddy coastal walk, layered over a chunky knit for a weekend in the countryside, or worn over a suit for smart-casual city dressing. Their quilted jackets, knitwear, shirts and accessories carry the same cross-occasion versatility. It's the kind of wardrobe investment that earns its keep.

3. Functional design with real-world thinking

Barbour doesn't do style for style's sake. Their outerwear is loaded with practical details like multiple pockets, corduroy-lined collars, storm flaps, and adjustable cuffs, because it was originally designed for people working outdoors in wet, cold British conditions. That functional thinking runs right across the range and remains present even in their more contemporary or fashion-forward pieces.

4. A range that goes far beyond the waxed jacket

While the waxed jacket is Barbour's iconic product, the collection extends much further. Lightweight quilted jackets offer packable warmth without the bulk. Fleece liners and knitwear layer underneath outerwear or stand alone on milder days. Shirts and casual staples round out the clothing line, while Barbour's accessories carry the same design language and quality benchmarks. It's a brand you can build a coherent, hard-wearing wardrobe around, whatever the season.

Caring for Your Barbour

Barbour waxed jackets should never go in the washing machine; the heat strips the wax and damages the fabric. Instead, sponge clean with cold water and a soft brush, then re-wax periodically (once or twice a year, depending on use) with Barbour's own wax dressing. Applied in a warm room and buffed in with a soft cloth, re-waxing restores water-repellency and brings the jacket back to life. For non-waxed Barbour pieces like quilted jackets, knitwear, or shirts, follow standard care instructions as labelled.

Barbour Sizing: What to Know

Barbour sizing tends to run true to a traditional British cut, meaning they're made with room for layering underneath, particularly in the classic jackets. If you're buying a waxed jacket to wear over thick knitwear or a fleece liner, your usual size will typically work well. If you prefer a more fitted, modern silhouette, consider sizing down. For the majority of other products, your usual size should be good. Our team at Fat Buddha Store are always happy to advise - just drop us a message before you order if you're unsure.

Why Buy Barbour from Fat Buddha Store?

Fat Buddha Store has been a trusted independent retailer in the UK since 2001. We stock brands we genuinely believe in, and Barbour sits comfortably alongside the other heritage and lifestyle labels our customers love.

- Carefully curated edit: We stock the Barbour pieces that our customers actually want and that we'd wear ourselves.

- Expert team: We know the brands we carry inside out; if you have a question about fit, care or what to pair with what, we're here

- Fast UK shipping: Orders are dispatched quickly, with free and next day shipping available on qualifying orders.

- Easy returns Our 100-day returns policy is simple and hassle-free.

- Independent retail done right: When you buy from Fat Buddha Store, you're supporting an independent business with a real passion for the brands it stocks