Farmer Pullovers: The Rugged Workwear Jackets Having a Fashion Moment

The Popularity of Farmer Pullovers

Farmer pullovers, also known as barn jackets or chore coats, have become an unexpected fashion trend in recent years. Originally worn by farmers, ranchers, and others who worked outdoors, these durable and practical jackets have been embraced by people far beyond the farm. So what's behind the popularity of farmer pullovers and barn jackets?

The Rise of Workwear in Fashion

Workwear styles like overalls, work boots, and chore jackets have become coveted fashion pieces. This workwear aesthetic echoes the popularity of other everyday, functional clothing like jeans and t-shirts. Brands like Carhartt and Dickies have experienced enormous growth thanks to the workwear trend.

Fashion is cyclical, and after years of more polished looks, there's an appeal in the authenticity of well-worn work garments. The sturdy fabrics and classic silhouettes of pieces like the farmer pullover exude realness and timelessness.

Practicality and Versatility

Farmer pullovers are valued for their practicality first and foremost. Typically made of cotton, canvas, or denim, they are breathable but also thick enough to stand up to daily wear and tear. The roomy silhouette allows for easy layering over hoodies, flannels, or heavier sweatshirts.

With both button and zipper front options, pullovers can be worn open or closed depending on temperatures. Multiple pockets provide ample storage space for pens, tools, phone, wallet, and more. Sleeves sometimes feature adjustable snap cuffs as well.

These jackets aren't just for farm work - their versatility makes them suitable for wear while running errands, camping, attending outdoor events, and relaxed social gatherings. They walk that fine line of being appropriate for manual labor but stylish enough for everyday wear.

The "Country" Aesthetic Trend

Barn jackets and pullovers fit right into the larger mania surrounding the "country" aesthetic across social media platforms like Instagram. Popular hashtags frequently associated with farmer pullovers include #country, #countrylife, #farm, and #farmtok.

Urban consumers are finding themselves drawn to pastoral aesthetic elements like wide open rural landscapes, picturesque barns, tractors, livestock, lush greenery, and rugged work garments. It's a nostalgia and longing for simplicity that chore jackets have come to represent.

Photos of pullover-clad farmers on both small family farms and larger commercial operations attract millions of views and follows. The garment choice implies an authenticity that followers seek to emulate through similar fashion and lifestyle choices.

Key Features of Farmer Pullovers

Not all barn jackets are created equal. When shopping for a farmer pullover, there are a few key features to look out for:

Durable Fabrics

Look for thicker cotton, canvas, denim, corduroy and even duck fabrics. These will stand up to daily wear without showing signs of fading, holes, or tears. Thinner materials may save on costs but won't deliver that classic workwear vibe.

Roomy Silhouette

A roomy, boxy fit allows for unfettered movement which farmers need during long days of physical activity and labor. For fashion purposes, the looser silhouette also permits layering over hoodies, button-ups, and thermals.

Storage Galore

The more pockets and storage options the better for people who need to carry multiple tools, gear, and accessories at any given time. Chest pockets, side pockets, interior pockets -- the farmer pullover should have space to spare.

Cuffs + Collar

Whether button, snap, or elasticized, adjustable cuffs allow wearers to seal out dirt and debris. An upright or fold-over collar adds a crisp finishing touch and another barrier against the elements when needed.

Dual Closures

The quintessential farmer pullover features both button and zipper front closures for maximum flexibility. Wear it open for ventilation or zip and button it fully closed in cold temps.

Finding the Perfect Farmer Pullover

Farmer pullovers need to check a lot of boxes - fashionable but functional, stylish but rugged, practical yet versatile enough for everyday wear. Evaluate the above features like fabric, fit, storage, adjustability etc. Stay close to that classic workwear look and feel. Neutral colors like navy, black, tan, brown, olive green, or grey make integrating this statement jacket into wardrobes easier.

When searching hashtags like #farm, #countrylife, and #farmtok, you'll see farmer pullovers from brands like Carhartt, Dickies, Wrangler, Patagonia, and Filson frequently making an appearance. While more expensive, these brands nail the aesthetic and tend to guarantee better construction and durability.

For a slightly more affordable option, Amazon's house brands like WYW (Weyouwant) provide a decent facsimile. Fleet Farm, Rural King, and other farm supply stores carry their own budget-friendly alternatives as well. With some diligence across reviews and user photos, scoring an attractive, real-deal farmer pullover is totally possible without breaking the bank.

FAQs

Why are farmer pullovers so popular right now?

Farmer pullovers tap into the workwear fashion trend and "country" aesthetic that's hugely popular on social media lately. Their authentic vibe and versatility as everyday pieces explain the current obsession.

What fabrics are best for a farmer pullover?

Thick cotton, canvas, denim, corduroy, and duck are durable, long-lasting fabrics that will maintain their integrity with consistent wear. They also provide that quintessential workwear look and feel.

What features make thebest farmer pullovers?

An ideal farmer pullover includes roomy silhouette, multiple pockets, adjustable cuffs and collar, zipper + button closure, and fabric that's soft yet rugged enough for farm work. High quality materials and stitching boost longevity.

What are some good farmer pullover brands?

Top brands for well-made and stylish farmer pullovers and barn jackets include Carhartt, Dickies, Wrangler, Patagonia, and Filson. Prices run on the higher side but quality is locked in with smart design details.

Where else can I shop for affordable farmer pullovers?

Amazon's house brand WYW offers cheaper facsimiles, as do rural and farm supply chains like Fleet Farm and Rural King. Check reviews carefully but scoring an attractive pullover under $50 is definitely feasible.