Men's parka
What is it
The parka is one of the most popular men's winter jackets. This jacket provides excellent protection in cold weather. The parka is a versatile outerwear because of its practicality, as it is perfect for any image of the men's wardrobe - from classic to sporty. Today in the market you can see a huge variety of colors and styles of parkas.
A bit of history
The parka has a long history. It is believed that the prototype of the parka, which has survived to this day, is the long coat of the Eskimos in Canada. In such clothes they went hunting. The coat was made from the skin of reindeer and fur seals. This garment did not have any fasteners and was worn over the head. In order for the coat not to let moisture in, it was lubricated with fish oil. In one of the Eskimo dialects, the word skin is pronounced like a parka.
In the late 50s of the 20th century, similar clothes appeared among American soldiers. They were based on the Korean front, the climate there is harsh, the winters are very cold, so they needed clothes that protect well in the cold. The first parkas for them were made of satin and nylon, for convenience they had several pockets, the length was average. These clothes kept the heat well and did not let the wind through.In the 60s of the 20th century, such a jacket became popular among the general population, so it has come down to us, only changing styles and colors over time.
Features and Benefits
The main feature of the parka is that it perfectly protects in cold weather, from strong winds and retains heat well. In most cases, the jacket has a straight cut, mid-thigh length, a large hood and many deep pockets that perform not only a decorative function, but also help keep hands warm. Winter parkas are usually insulated with fur or artificial filler - synthetic winterizer. Be sure to have fur on the hood. Also, the jacket must have drawstrings at the waistline and at the hem, which helps to better protect against the wind.
Men's jackets look more restrained, brutal. The main colors for the same parkas are black, blue, khaki, gray, mustard. Recently, fashion designers offer various styles and colors for both men and women. Short, long, fitted, denim, leather parkas appeared. Women's parkas differ from men's in a wider range of colors. Also, recently, women's jackets are decorated with fur along the zipper line, decorate the hem and sleeves. The parka jacket never goes out of fashion, it is very popular not only among young people, but also among men and women of the older generation.
Popular models and styles
Popular models remain classic, as well as parks in a militaristic style. Popular remains a straight cut with a length to the middle of the thigh or to the knees. But there are also sleeveless parkas, reminiscent of vests. Of course, such clothes are not for cold weather. But in early autumn it is very useful to complement the casual style.
Hooded
Almost all models of parkas have a large hood. It serves as a reliable protection against strong wind and frost. In winter versions of parkas, the hood is necessarily decorated with fur, natural or artificial, for extra warmth and comfort. The spring version of the jacket is without fur, sometimes a textile lining is possible.
Military
The military style parka is very popular for several seasons. It is mostly khaki or swamp green. The jacket is comfortable and practical and not easily soiled.
Alaska
Frost-resistant Alaska jackets are distinguished by the fact that their filler is mainly down-feather or synthetic winterizer. Mandatory hood on faux fur, trimmed with long and fluffy fur.
windbreaker
Basically, these parks are used in cool spring or autumn weather. The lining may be textile or wool blend, or without it at all. The length of such windbreakers is mainly to the level of the waist, or to the middle of the thigh.
classical
Classic mid-thigh parka. There are no additional decor items. Convenient, comfortable and versatile jacket. In the winter version, it is insulated with fur or synthetic winterizer, in the spring version, on a knitted or cotton lining, or without it at all.
Fish tail
The main difference of this parka is that it is slightly longer in the back than in the front. At the back, the jacket has a slit, the so-called fishtail, which means a fish tail. Because of this, she received such a name. The fishtail gives an unusual look to the park and emphasizes its peculiarity.
fitted
A fitted parka helps create an elegant look with a slightly tapered fit. Drawstrings at the waist help to create an even greater effect of a narrow waist.
waterproof
For the most part, special dense waterproof fabrics are used for parkas. This is what sets it apart from other jackets. Since the park should create comfort and keep warm. Such parks are presented not only in winter versions, but also in spring ones.
Actual colors
Recently, designers have presented us with a huge number of colors. Men tend to choose dark tones that don't get dirty quickly. Now men's parkas can be found in bright and saturated colors: lemon, bright blue, bright red, orange. For the most part, the younger generation prefers such bright jackets, while older men are adherents of classic dark shades.
materials
Leather
Now on the market you can find various types of leather parkas. Jackets can be made entirely of leather or only some parts of the jacket, such as sleeves. Leather is used as a decoration for pockets, cuffs, elbows, mainly in those places where the product is most subjected to abrasion. Some designers offer leather elements that look like lace as decoration, such as sleeves. Leather parkas are mostly mid-thigh length and are designed for cold weather. Accordingly, they have an insulated lining. Pockets in such jackets are often zippered. Fur for insulation is used more often short, for example, mink, than long and fluffy.
Denim
A denim parka is mainly created for autumn or spring. Mostly used by young and active people. For denim parkas, faux fur or sheepskin is used. Thick, long fur may adorn the sleeves and hood. But also, such a park can be found on a knitted lining or without it at all.
Cotton
A cotton parka is also most often used during warmer periods of time, just to protect from the wind or when the weather is chilly. It will not heat well, as it is simply not intended for this. This jacket will be ideal for forest or mountain walks, for outdoor sports.
Heaters
For warming winter parkas, natural and artificial fur are used, as well as synthetic insulation, such as synthetic winterizer, microfiber. Please note that the lining should be light, reliable and of very high quality. As a heater, manufacturers can also use down-feathers. The neck and cuffs can have additional protection - woolen or half-woolen jersey. Choosing the right parka with good insulation will help keep you warm in the most severe frosts.
Length
If earlier the parka was about the same length - to the middle of the thigh (this is the classic length of the jacket), now designers offer various models. For example, short and cropped parkas, their length is approximately to the waist. Basically, these are youth options and wear them in the spring and autumn. Long parkas - up to the knee or slightly lower. Because of this length, they can be called a coat. Such parks are most often chosen for the cold season, as they warm very well in severe frosts.
Models for children and teenagers
Designers do not forget about children and offer them a huge selection of parks. Of course, for children and teenagers, the jacket should be comfortable, warm, practical and safe. For young children, darker colors are presented, based on their practicality: black, blue, khaki, red, brown. For older teenagers, you can already find a wider selection of bright colors: blue, yellow, orange, pink.Such models are not inferior to adults, have the same practicality and versatility. Since the parks are wide, you don’t have to worry that the school uniform will be wrinkled under it. Often, artificial fur is used in children's parks, this is done so that the thing is more accessible. In terms of quality, warmth preservation, they are in no way inferior to natural furs.
Selection Tips
Approach the choice of men's parks thoroughly. It must be chosen in accordance with the climatic conditions where you will wear it. For our climate, it is necessary to choose well-insulated parks for the winter. When buying, make sure the top material of the jacket, it should be tight, not let air and water through. Metal zipper, as well as plastic, must be of good quality. The lining should be warm, of high quality. If the lining is natural fur, check its quality. The fur should be smooth, shiny, with a thick undercoat. Even faux fur and synthetic winterizer must meet all requirements. The hood should be large and deep and not fall off your head in a strong gust of wind. Pockets should be deep so you can protect your hands.
What to wear
Men are offered to wear parkas with almost any item in their wardrobe. It goes well with a business suit. Due to its length, the jacket will not be visible from under it. Since the jacket is wide, even if you are wearing a suit, it does not restrict your movements. Casual style is a great combination with a parka. Shirt, jeans, lace-up boots - it all looks great with this jacket. Wear a T-shirt underneath your shirt for a layered look and a stylish look. The military style is also suitable for the park.Turtlenecks, pullovers, sneakers or boots are perfect for this jacket.
What accessories and shoes are suitable
To look fashionable and stylish, you can use some accessories. For example, a shoulder bag or a backpack is suitable for this jacket. For business style, a leather briefcase is ideal. Absolutely any shoes are suitable: sneakers, boots, boots with thick corrugated soles. The parka is versatile, so it is easy to match both shoes and accessories.
Stylish images
This season, designers offer a variety of styles and colors. The olive classic has been on the catwalk for several seasons. These parkas represent the military style, which is very popular among men. They dilute classic jackets with fashionable decors, such as a placket with large buttons of an unusual shape, patch chest pockets, and hoods are trimmed with light fur. A lot of bright parkas are presented this season: bright blue, yellow, orange, red, green. Stylish images are complemented by large-knit scarves tied in the French style, insulated leather gloves, and even mittens, which is very rare in a men's wardrobe. Images for every taste and budget, the choice is yours.