This winter, a classic wax jacket has become the must-have item for stylish and practical layering. While heritage brands like Barbour command premium prices, savvy shoppers have discovered a near-identical look for a fraction of the cost.
The High-Street Alternative Saving You Hundreds
Barbour's iconic wax jackets, favoured by style icons from the Princess of Wales to Alexa Chung, are renowned for their timeless appeal. However, their quality comes at a price. For example, the Barbour Aberford Wax Jacket in olive retails for £329 at ASOS.
In contrast, fashion retailer Roman offers a remarkably similar alternative. Their Khaki Waxed Longline Hooded Coat is currently on sale for just £99, down from £120. This represents a saving of £230 compared to the designer version, making the classic country aesthetic accessible to many more wardrobes.
What Makes This Coat a Standout Buy?
The Roman coat takes inspiration from high-end designs but adds its own practical features. It boasts a slightly longer, longline cut and includes an adjustable waist and a detachable hood for versatility. Practical details include long sleeves, a front zipper with popper fastenings, and handy pockets.
Available in sizes ten to 20, the coat comes in three versatile colours: khaki, chocolate, and navy. This ensures a shade to suit most personal colour palettes, as noted in a report by the Manchester Evening News.
Its design proves surprisingly adaptable. It can be paired with jeans and a jumper for a casual weekend look or worn with chinos and a blouse for a smart-casual office commute.
Shoppers and Rivals: How Does It Compare?
The coat has garnered an impressive 4.8 out of 5-star rating from over 80 reviews on Roman's website, with many customers highlighting its value and style.
One satisfied reviewer said: "Great coat. Waterproof, good length on me and I love the colour." Another added, "I've worn this coat all winter and it looks just as good now as when I first bought it. It looks classy with boots."
While one customer noted the fit was 'on the larger side', requiring a size exchange, the feedback remains overwhelmingly positive. A final shopper praised its timeless style, stating it had "already proved useful in the rain and cold."
The high-street market for wax jackets is competitive. Marks and Spencer sells a Waxed Pure Cotton Utility Jacket for £130, while Tesco's F&F offers a Shower Resistant Waxed Collared Longline Coat for £69.50. However, Roman's option strikes a compelling balance between price, positive customer feedback, and design details inspired by luxury labels.
For those seeking the Barbour aesthetic without the substantial investment, this under-£100 find presents a very persuasive case for updating your winter wardrobe.
