Tarierjacket

Tarierjacket is a traditional form of protective outerwear associated with tar workers and sailors. It denotes a sturdy, weather-resistant jacket designed to withstand wet, oily work environments where tar and marine conditions were common. The name derives from tar, the sticky waterproofing substance used in ship maintenance, combined with jacket. Earliest attestations appear in late 19th-century maritime and industrial catalogs and worker reports.

In design terms, tarierjackets were commonly made from waxed cotton canvas or oilskin, sometimes reinforced with leather patches at the shoulders and elbows. They typically feature a high collar, a storm or placket, large patch or side pockets, and adjustable cuffs or a waist belt. The outer surface was often treated to reduce tar adhesion and to shed water, while the interior aimed to be breathable and durable.

Variants include different pocket configurations, color schemes (traditionally dark blues or browns), and levels of lining. In some regions, tarierjackets were worn as part of a broader workwear ensemble, alongside bib overalls and heavy boots. Modern fashion has revived the silhouette, with designers borrowing its rugged lines and hardware for casual and outdoor wear, while the original use remains largely historical.

See also: oilskin jacket; waxed canvas workwear; tar; workwear history.