Finally Filson for Her at Westley Richards

If you imagine a pre-war US hunter clad in black and red check, he's wearing a Filson patent Cruising Shirt, first offered in 1914. In fact, that shirt/jacket is still available, now called the Mackinaw Cruiser in Red & Black Plaid. The  ladies version is very much true to the original, with four big external, button-down ,patch pockets and adjustable button cuffs.

Westley Richards has previously only offered Filson menswear but it has been an ambition to add items from the ladies wear lines that are now emerging. They remain rugged and true to the outdoor philosophy that made the company famous but with a more feminine cut and size profile.

Our latest offerings include The Ladies Duster Coat, a full length waxed cotton classic, with corduroy collar and press stud and zip front fastening to repel the wind and rain. It has all the classic looks and practical features of the original, made for torrential rain, with a secondary shoulder cover to force the rain to run off, flap pockets with press stud fastening and generous cut in body and sleeve for ease of movement.

We are also stocking the Filson Women's Field Chamois Shirt, which is a thick, heavily napped cotton fabric with a tight weave, which, despite its softness, blocks wind and light rain nicely. It is ruggedly made to the best standards and is designed to last for years. The dual, buttoned chest pockets add a degree of practicality. This shirt looks great and wears hard.

It might be argued that the concept of a shirt-jacket originated with the Filson style we have come to know and love. Heavy cotton or wool-blend, loose fitting shirts with pockets can be worn over a light sweater or a shirt or T-shirt offering remarkable flexibility. More weather resistant than a common shirt, with more stowage, yet lighter and less structured than jacket and in a softer, fully flexible fabric.

The Filson Women's Seattle Wool Jac-Shirt takes that concept into the 21st century as a versatile outdoor staple. Cut from tightly woven 100% wool, it resists the elements while remaining soft and functional. With twin, button-down breast pockets and side-access hip pockets it provides plenty of space for stowage, while the big buttons and moisture-wicking cloth offer practical benefits for those working or playing outside. Cut with a slightly nipped waist for a more flattering shape than the typical men's shirts, it offers a feminine ruggedness that is hard to find and harder to beat.

We are confident that this will not be the last addition of Filson garments to the Westley Richards line-up; the brand really does offer a level of North American style and hardiness not found anywhere else.