THE HISTORY OF THE WORK JACKET
Born with the rise of industry at the end of the 19th century, the work jacket became one of the most iconic pieces of the French workers' wardrobe. Originally designed for craftsmen, factory workers and railwaymen in their daily work, it had to be above all hard-wearing, comfortable and functional.
Made from durable fabrics and fitted with large pockets to keep tools close at hand, it gradually became a true uniform. Its characteristic blue colour earned it the name “bleu de travail”, while the expression “bleu de chauffe” remained associated with the world of workers and manual trades.
More than a century later, this utilitarian garment has left the workshop without turning its back on its origins. Its simplicity, durability and timeless silhouette have made it a true icon of the workwear wardrobe, now worn as much for its functionality as for its style.
HOW DOES THE GERMINAL WORK JACKET FIT?
With the Germinal jacket, Bleu de Chauffe goes straight back to the origins of its name and its universe. Inspired by authentic French work jackets from the early 20th century, it retains their essential features while updating the proportions for a contemporary wardrobe.
It features a straight cut, deliberately generous across the shoulders to preserve freedom of movement, a traditional chevalière shirt collar, three patch pockets on the front and one inside pocket. These details are inherited from professional garments whose form was once dictated by function.
Bleu de Chauffe gives this historic silhouette a more precise construction and a more contemporary look. The Germinal therefore retains the character of a men's work jacket while fitting naturally into a modern wardrobe.
WHY IS MOLESKIN USED FOR WORK JACKETS?
A genuine moleskin work jacket starts with its fabric. The Germinal is made from 310 g/m² 100% cotton moleskin, a fabric historically associated with professional workwear for its durability, density and structure.
Despite what its name might suggest, moleskin is not an animal material. It is a particularly tightly woven cotton fabric, designed to create a material that is hard-wearing, supple and pleasant to the touch.
It is precisely this combination that made it so successful in the world of work: a fabric capable of withstanding daily use while gradually becoming softer over time.
On the Germinal, moleskin gives the jacket a clean structure while retaining the comfort needed for a garment designed to be worn frequently. With wear and washing, the fabric evolves and gradually develops its own character.
A WORK JACKET MADE IN FRANCE
The Germinal jacket is made in France in the Bleu de Chauffe workshop in Aveyron. A choice that naturally extends the history of the garment that inspired it and the craftsmanship associated with French workwear.
The jacket is assembled in the brand's workshop and every detail retains a precise function. The buttons allow for easy fastening, the buttoned cuffs can be rolled up effortlessly, and the three outer pockets follow the functional principle of traditional professional jackets.
The buttons are made from plant-based resin using recycled materials, while the 100% cotton moleskin contributes to a construction designed to last.
An approach true to the spirit of the French work jacket : a simple, functional piece designed to accompany its owner over time.
HOW TO WASH AND CARE FOR A MOLESKIN JACKET?
The moleskin work jacket owes much of its reputation to the durability of its fabric. To preserve the structure, colour and feel of the Germinal over time, a few simple precautions will help protect the material.
The jacket can be machine washed at a maximum of 30°C. Before washing, turn it inside out to reduce friction on the outer surface of the moleskin and wash it with similar colours.
Do not use bleach. After washing, choose natural air drying: the Germinal must not be tumble dried. It can be gently reshaped and left to dry naturally on a hanger.
When the jacket is not stained, there is no need to wash it too frequently. Airing it after wear helps space out washes and preserve the appearance and colour of the fabric for longer.
With wear and washing, the cotton moleskin will naturally soften and evolve. This gradual patina is part of the character of workwear garments: rather than remaining unchanged, the jacket develops progressively with time and use.
When ironing, make sure not to iron directly over the leather label.
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