what is a pea coat

A pea coat is a short, double-breasted wool coat usually in navy blue, originally worn by sailors of European and later American navies. The name "pea coat" is believed to have originated from the Dutch word pijjekker or pijjakker, which referred to the type of cloth used, a coarse kind of twilled blue cloth with a nap on one side. The coat is characterized by short length, broad lapels, double-breasted fronts, often large wooden, metal or plastic buttons, three or four in two rows, and vertical or slash pockets. While the original design and composition have been maintained, modern renditions have evolved to include hoods and a variety of fabrics and colors. Pea coats are still well-loved as a functional yet stylish type of outerwear and have definitely reached iconic menswear status. They are versatile and can be styled in many ways and for many occasions, and can be worn with casual pieces like jeans, chinos, sweaters, open-buttoned shirts, or even a t-shirt in the fall.