Made famous by Noel Gallagher when he wore the lightweight anorak on stage with Oasis, the Pac Jac is back for a new generation of rock’n’roll stars…
It’s late April 1996; the Britpop phenomena is at its height, and the scene’s most successful band are solidifying their status as rock’n’roll legends. Following the release of two classic albums, Oasis are playing a series of homecoming gigs at Maine Road, the hallowed ground of their beloved Manchester City Football Club. The immense performances at Knebworth House later that year might be more famous, but the shows in Manchester held a special significance to brothers, Noel and Liam Gallagher. Playing for 80,000 fans just a stone’s throw away from where they’d grown up was the full circle validation they had been building towards.
One thing Manchester is not known for is its weather. Speaking to BBC ‘s Reel Stories in 2019, Noel recalled, “Someone was saying, 'You can't play outdoors in Manchester in April, it'll rain!’ I was like, 'It f**king rains in August! What's the difference?’” Noel’s interrogator continues, “‘And like it'll be freezing!’” before the guitarist concludes, “I was like, ‘Well, wear a coat!’" And he did just that.
Setting out to source a jacket accomplished enough to fend off the elements, offering ample maneuverability for showmanship, as well as look the part for such a momentous occasion, Noel settled on the Pac Jac. Bringing together the function and form Penfield was renowned for, the lightweight construction packs a lot in to its striking design, as well as literally packing into its own design! Sporting two different colourways across two different shows, so that fans could identify exactly which night they attended, the Pac Jac has gone on to achieve cult status among fashion aficionados and music enthusiasts alike, with previous releases consistently reappearing across vintage resell sites.
Joining Penfield’s Icons Collection for Spring Summer 2024, its reintroduction pays homage to the lasting allure of nineties streetwear and Penfield's storied legacy in crafting enduring outerwear. Released here in its most famous colour palette, the signature design features a true red hue for the sleeves and hood, juxtaposed with a stone-coloured body, delivering a vibrant yet versatile aesthetic.
As the name suggests, the Pac Jac is a packable jacket, capable of folding away into its front pocket for convenience and easy transportation. A PFC-free durable water repellent coating provides enhanced protection against the wind and the rain – perfect for a wet night in Manchester! A bungee drawcord hood and elasticated cuffs offer personalised adjustability, while a functional mesh vent at the back ensures breathability during active pursuits – such as guitar solos and general godlike behaviour. The iconic Penfield logo adorns the front kangaroo pocket, while an archive three-quarter length zip puller and woven label underscore the jacket's heritage-inspired design.
The Pac Jac’s resurgence ties in with a 90s fashion revival, joining returning trends of oversized denim, sports influenced casuals and utilitarian outerwear, all accessorised with a healthy dose of attitude. Best worn with relaxed jeans, and minimal trainers, it's the perfect layering piece for those transitional seasons when the weather can't make up its mind – just ask Noel! Throw it on over a graphic tee for an effortlessly cool daytime vibe, or pair it with a crisp button-down shirt for a more versatile look.
Reclaiming its status as a must-have item for those who crave a dose of nostalgia with a contemporary edge, Vogue dedicated an article to Noel Gallagher's indelible connection with the Pac Jac and its revered status within fashion fandom folklore. The magazine stated, "With his devil-may-care attitude, the Britpop star's influence went beyond the music, and his distinctive personal style filtered down to the wardrobes of legions of fans.” Vogue concluded, “Consider the Pac Jac, a cool look whether you’re in the band or not.” And we couldn’t agree more.
