Leather waistcoat for workmen

[Graham Ashford]

Hi there

I am still building up my library and references for this period. As such I've not been able to find any pictures/references for leather working man's waistcoat, but I have such a limited pool of resources at the moment I wondered whether anyone had heard of such a thing?

They seem to make a practical, hardworking sense and I have some spare leather perfect for the job, but can't find a reference for them - did such a thing exist?

Thanks for any help you can offer.

[kael]

I've not come across a leather waistcoat, but there are examples of leather aprons that attach to the top button of a waistcoat and tie at the back, and full length leather aprons that have an integral shoulder/neck strap worn over a shirt and waistcoat.

[Kingofderby]

I've seen pictures of workmen, but it's apron over normal clothing that I see being worn, not leather waist coats.

[Graham Ashford]

I figured it would probably be the case, it's a lot of work for something that will ultimately be wrecked. I liked the idea and thought I'd take a look and see.

Thanks for the time and input .. apron it is

[wurzul]

Sleeved waistcoats in leather yes. But not for working class, but as hunting coats.

[kael]

Ooo interesting. What's the source for a period leather sleeved waistcoat? Sounds like a project.

[Le Loup]

Hi there

I am still building up my library and references for this period. As such I've not been able to find any pictures/references for leather working man's waistcoat, but I have such a limited pool of resources at the moment I wondered whether anyone had heard of such a thing?

They seem to make a practical, hardworking sense and I have some spare leather perfect for the job, but can't find a reference for them - did such a thing exist?

Thanks for any help you can offer.

To date Graham I have not been able to document the wearing of leather vests/waistcoats for the 1700-1750 period. Personally I would have thought that the use of leather for a waistcoat would have been fairly common, but this does not appear to be the case. Linen & wool only for the middling sort. If you do find any primary documentation, please let me know.
Regards, Keith.