
Quest for Robert Redford's Timeless Jacket from "Three Days of the Condor"
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French designer Nicolas Gabard, founder of Husbands Paris, admires the grey tweed blazer worn by Robert Redford in the 1975 film "Three Days of the Condor." Gabard mentions that many have tried to replicate the jacket, including Ralph Lauren, but no one has succeeded.
"Three Days of the Condor," a thriller directed by Sydney Pollack, was released 50 years ago on September 27, 1975. The film was described as good-looking and entertaining but not on par with stories in local newspapers. Robert Redford's character, Joe Turner, is portrayed as stylish, wearing the iconic grey tweed blazer.
The jacket, featuring a wide herringbone pattern, is distinctive with its two-button closure, broad notch lapels, and scarlet lining. Tailoring experts note the unique fabric and construction of the jacket, suggesting it may not be bespoke due to machine stitching and fused cuff buttons.
Despite efforts to identify the jacket and other clothing items worn by Redford's character, the origins of the jacket remain a mystery. The film's costume designer, Joseph Aulisi, recalls finding the jacket at Barney's men's store and modifying it to suit the character's style.
Aulisi describes the jacket as slick yet low-key, allowing for versatile pairing with other clothing items. Various brands offer similar versions of the grey herringbone jacket, emphasizing its timeless and adaptable nature.
While the exact details and maker of the original jacket are unknown, modern interpretations are available from brands like Drake's, Edward Sexton, Polo Ralph Lauren, and Husbands Paris. The versatility of the grey herringbone jacket makes it a timeless and accessible fashion piece for all individuals.