For centuries, the kaban has been the work jacket of Breton fishermen. However, it was not until the early 19th century that the originally white jacket (Breton: kap gwenn, white fabric) began to be dyed blue. In this form, the kaban took the European naval and merchant fleets by storm, becoming the quintessential maritime garment. Armor lux produces it exclusively for us using the following materials: The outer fabric is a medium-weight, tightly woven cloth made of pure wool. The lining is made of pure viscose, backed with a cotton fleece and quilted in a diamond pattern. The straight-cut kaban features a high-closing lapel collar with a buttoned storm flap. It fastens with three pairs of metal uniform buttons, as has always been the tradition for this style of jacket. Two side slit pockets and two interior pockets with metal zippers provide storage for small everyday items.

“Armor” is the Breton word for “sea,” and “lux” can only refer to the light on the coast. To this day, many of the garments produced by Armor lux retain a maritime character—sweaters and shirts, dresses, pants, hats, caps, and scarves. Founded in Quimper in the late 1930s by a Swiss entrepreneur, the company combines simple, comfortable cuts, classic colors, and uncompromising quality in both materials and craftsmanship. A significant portion of the collection is still manufactured at the company’s headquarters in France— Armor lux also operates production facilities in other countries.