French fisherman smock 80s faded blue L

French fisherman smock from the 80s, brand Mat de Misaine.

Measures:

Recommended size: L

Length: 73cm

Sleeve length: 60cm

Shoulders: 51cm

Width: 53cm

History:

The fisherman's smock is a garment made of durable sailcloth, fully reversible and typically dyed indigo, white or red. It was once worn as an outer garment by Atlantic fishermen from Cornwall to Brittany and the Channel Islands, often over a knitted gansey.

Historically, this apron was made from recycled old sails, a strong and durable cotton fabric, ideal for weathering and enduring the rigors of work. It was designed with a loose fit to allow for ample arm movement and worn over a pure wool fisherman's sweater or a Breton jumper, acting as both a windbreaker and a raincoat.

Since 1874, the apron has been part of the French Navy uniform, consolidating itself over time as an essential piece of every sailor's wardrobe. The Breton sailors, already eco-friendly before the concept was invented, made their aprons from the remains of the sails of the boats. This made it possible to recover the cost of resistant fabrics, which were quite expensive. However, the manufacturing process was not easy for the tenacious sailors, more skilled at mending nets than sewing.