Constantly walking around in cold weather in a coat, fur coat or down jacket is not always convenient, not always useful, and sometimes it’s just boring. I want something simple, warm and comfortable. In this case, the park or, as it was called before, Alaska comes to the rescue. Some time ago, such outerwear was considered exclusively for men, but women could not ignore its convenience, and now such a jacket is considered a unisex item. Let's talk about it in more detail.
What does a parka jacket mean?
The word “parka” itself is translated as animal skin. The idea for this item began with the outerwear of the Eskimos. They decorated it with fur, rubbed it with animal fat and insulated it with skins. Later, men began to wear this type of jacket when going hunting and fishing. Also, the so-called Alaskans were used in the winter uniform of soldiers. To this day, the cut itself has hardly changed, the distinctive features remain the same. Let's look at them in more detail.
Note!
The Eskimos rubbed their outer clothing with fat so that they would not allow moisture and cold to pass through. Today's jackets have the same capabilities thanks to the thick fabric used to make them.
Distinctive features of the parka jacket
Every year designers offer something new and improved. The situation is the same with Alaskans: new trims, patch pockets, and different fasteners appear. But the main features of the park still remain:
- mid-thigh length;
- fastens with a zipper;
- hood, decorated with fur;
- additional strip with Velcro;
- sewn-in elastic cord that tightens at the waist.
All modern Alaskans, oddly enough, have these characteristics. They have not changed because they are very practical.
What is the difference between a parka and a jacket?
To figure out what is an Alaska jacket and what is a regular jacket, pay attention to the following characteristics.
The parka is shown on the left, the jacket on the right.
- Length. The parka always has an elongated straight cut. It covers the thighs to the middle. This jacket also allows you to wear warm, chunky sweaters underneath, but gives you the opportunity to emphasize your waist.
- Textile. When sewing Alaskans, I always use dense protective material that has moisture- and dirt-repellent properties.
- Finishing. In this case, stylists do not try to decorate outerwear with something bright and lush. Fur, buttons or snaps, a couple of fasteners are enough to complete the product.
- Pockets. Alaska always has a couple of pockets; they can be internal or patch pockets.
Features of women's parka jacket
Although down jackets are considered more feminine, the modern world demands more from women than just looking beautiful.The fair sex loves this version of jackets and uses it in everyday style.
Stylists immediately began to give parkas a more feminine look to satisfy all women's whims. Thus, Alaskans have become more neat, compact and less heavy.
Women's styles are varied; they are decorated with fur on the hood, sleeves and pockets, and stripes. Another change in classic parkas that appeared thanks to women is the variety of colors and shades.
Designers offer short and long styles of alaskas, sew jackets from various fabrics and are constantly adding something new to their works.
Important!
Now you can see special parks for pregnant women. Such models are very warm and practical. And the drawstring from the waist area is moved a little higher to make it comfortable for expectant mothers.
Features of men's parka jacket
Men choose Alaska for several reasons: firstly, it retains warmth and does not restrict movement, secondly, it looks stylish and adds courage, and thirdly, it has the optimal length.
Men's models of such jackets are not as diverse as women's, but the stronger sex still has plenty to choose from. Most often, fabric for men's alaskas is used in dark colors: black, brown, blue, burgundy and green.
The color of the fur on the parkas is neutral or dark, and the fasteners are invisible. Most often, men's jackets are heavier than women's ones, due to the fact that coarser materials are used to make them.
When can you wear a parka jacket?
If previously a parka was considered an exclusively demi-season item, now you can buy an insulated winter version and even a summer jacket.Alaska will protect you from cold, wind and rain and will not lose your good views due to bad weather conditions.
Attention!
Special models of these jackets, such as denim, with elegant fur, leather and wool, are worn for more business and evening looks.
It is worn every day with casual and sporty outfits with jeans and comfortable shoes.
Features of a winter parka jacket
For the winter version of Alaska, good insulation is used: synthetic, natural or fur. When choosing such a jacket, pay attention to the composition, type and quality of the filling.
Another feature of winter parkas is a large hood with fur and ties, which protected the face from cold gusts of wind and snowfall.
Important!
A jacket with synthetic filling costs less, does not lose shape and weighs less, but it is not as warm as a parka with natural fur or feathers.
Features of a demi-season parka jacket
Since it often rains heavily in autumn and spring, fur is used less frequently on hoods and trim. When choosing demi-season outerwear, special attention should be paid to the material. It could be:
- canvas is a very hard and rough material that is not afraid of either rain or wind;
- taslan – waterproof fabric;
- nylon - has the same abilities as taslan, but this material is lighter and thinner;
- Fleece is a very thick and soft fabric that does not protect against water and is used in modern outfits.
When choosing a parka, check the condition of the material, touch it and, if possible, check its durability.
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