Does anybody have any fresh suggestions? I've got four old Keydge jackets, which I've worn a lot over the years, but a couple are really starting to show their age now. I found them particularly useful as knockabout, everyday jackets. I bought a Vetra recently which I'm pleased with, but it needed a few alterations before I was fully happy with it. Be good to find something which works more or less off the peg, save sleeve adjustments.
This Vetra hopsack jacket doesn't look too bad, though it's lacking cuff buttons, which I think would get on my nerves.
https://www.vetra.fr/en/french-workwear-dungaree-mens-jackets/2666-hopsack-canvas-cotton-linen-workwear-blazer.html#/2-size-42/31-colour-navy
I see Keydge is posting sporadically on Facebook, but not answering important questions, like "are you back in business?" and "will you take orders on here as your website's not working?"
You can email the owner directly? ff at jkeydge.com
Or try atelieratemel at gmail.com, who I believe designed the pattern and now making versions.
As it happens, I received a box of j keydge jackets from a friend in LA just yesterday. The length really varies, but I really like them a lot.
Ever so slightly different 'vibe' to the John Simons jacket I think...
I have experience of both the new Keydge and the hopsack Vetra so hope this helps.
I like both but they are very different animals. The Keydge is closer to a proper jacket whereas the Vetra is very basic workwear so you miss out on certain details.
The navy Vetra hopsack jacket is superb. I have a vented version and, unusually, the quality is much better than the price point. My local tailor did a slight alteration on the collar and also steamed a subtle roll down to the middle button. I liked the jacket so much I would of also purchased the ecru version but I have a previous seasons Vetra that although unvented is very similar. Last Autumn I went on to buy the olive micro cord that's also really nice.
I purchased a new Keydge Seersucker jacket about three years ago. Although it's the Ivy cut the lapel was slightly wider than previous. Once you add on the duty it wasn't cheap. I have subsequently had a load of swatches from the company but didn't take it any further down to cost.
Whilst JS has attempted to replicate the Keydge I would suggest that the fit isn't quite as good. It feels slightly narrower. On positive note that are trying out better quality materials such as the hopsack.
Thanks both, that’s very helpful. My only concern with ordering a new Keydge is spending a significant amount on a jacket sight unseen. Since the site is down, did you both get them based purely on descriptions and prices, or will the owner send you photographs and measurements of his latest range?
The Vetra hopsack sounds tempting though.
My wife who is fluent in French had along conversation with the guy.
The initial contact was made through Insta
I was interested in J Press's latest collaboration with Buck Mason. It's a brand I wasn't familiar with.
I initially noticed some good looking, high waisted chinos on their website. I subsequently realised that an unstructured jacket was also available.
At around $340 for a suit I thought this was good value in comparison to the current Vetra suits that retail for £450.
I liked a lot on their website. Whilst not full-on Ivy it's a nice evolution.