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Continue ShoppingWomen's Classic Gilet Guide
Compare our classic gilet shapes and fits.
At Lavenham, the gilet is an integral part of our brand. Since crafting the world's first quilted nylon gilet in the early 1970s, we've continued to refine and reimagine this versatile piece. Every Lavenham gilet is made in our Suffolk factory, using traditional machinery and premium materials to create durable garments designed to last. Over the years, we've explored various fits, fabrics, and styles - but the essence of our gilets remains unchanged. Our Classic gilets are the styles closest to original Lavenham gilet designs. This guide explains the differences between the styles, how to wear them, and how to find your ideal size.
The Thornham
The Thornham is the layering gilet. It is designed to be worn as either an outer gilet or as a mid-layer gilet. Its collarless neckline and neutral straight fit enable it to sit seamlessly under coats or jackets, however, as it is not completely form-fitting it also works as a top layer. It is the most versatile of our classic gilets, and can be worn year-round with different layers.
- Layering gilet
- Straight, neutral fit
- Can be worn as an outer gilet or inner gilet
- Collarless neckline
- Lightweight yet warm wadding
- 100% recycled Lavenster™ polyester
- 2 x Patch pockets
- 1 x Interior chest pocket
- Organic cotton corduroy binding
Sizing Advice: Take your usual size if you prefer a neat fit and would like to be able to wear this layered under a coat. If you prefer a more oversized relaxed fit, then take a size up. If you are unsure about which size to take, compare the actual gilet measurements found on the product page with a garment that you already own and like the fit of.
The model is 181cm / 5 ft 11.5 in and is wearing a size 8.
The Cocoon Thornham
An outer gilet with a sculptural silhouette. A pleated back creates a softly structured cocoon shape, offering both form and ease of movement. It wears well in place of a jacket on mild days or for relaxed days staying warm whilst at home or working. It is worth noting that this one is a little more difficult to layer underneath coats and jackets due to its ‘cocoon’ shape.
- Outer gilet
- Back pleats for a gentle ‘cocoon shape’
- Collarless neckline
- 100% recycled Lavenster™ polyester
- Lightweight yet warm wadding
- 2 x Patch pockets
- Organic cotton corduroy binding
- Also available in a Lightweight version
Sizing Advice: Take your usual size if you prefer a neat fit. If you prefer a more oversized relaxed fit, then take a size up. If you are unsure about which size to take, compare the actual gilet measurements found on the product page with a garment that you already own and like the fit of.
Aimee is 175cm / 5 ft 9 in and wears a size 10.
The Cropped Raydon Gilet
The Cropped Raydon Gilet is a clean-lined outer gilet. Cropped, with an a-line silhouette and corduroy collar and binding. This gilet works best as a top layer.
- Outer gilet
- Fits like a jacket without sleeves
- Room for layers
- Cropped length
- A-line silhouette
- Corduroy collar
- 100% recycled Lavenster™ polyester
- Lightweight yet warm wadding
- 2 x Patch pockets
- Organic cotton corduroy binding
Sizing Advice: This gilet is true to size. Take your usual size and there will be room for layers underneath. If you plan to wear this under a jacket or coat or prefer a closer fit then we would recommend sizing down.
Josi is 176cm / 5 ft 9.5 in and wears a size 10.
The Cornard
The Cornard is the inner gilet. Designed to be layered underneath a coat or jacket it is cut to sit close to the body with a straight fit. The wadding is a touch lighter than our other classic gilets to avoid overheating, and the gilet features two internal patch pockets.
- Inner gilet
- Close fitting, designed to be a jacket liner
- Straight fit
- Hip-length
- Lightweight yet warm wadding, slightly lighter weight then other classic gilets
- 100% recycled Lavenster™ polyester
- Lightweight yet warm wadding
- 2 x Internal patch pockets
- Organic cotton corduroy binding
Sizing Advice: This gilet fits true to size but is designed to be close fitting. If you prefer a roomier fit then take the size up.
The model is 175cm / 5 ft 9 in and wears a size 10.
The Barton
The Barton Gilet is the outer gilet. Think of it as a jacket without sleeves and wear it on milder days year-round, layered accordingly. The gilet features a clean a-line silhouette, large hood and large pockets.
- Outer gilet with hood
- Roomy fit
- A-line sillhouette
- Jacket length
- Lightweight yet warm wadding
- 100% recycled Lavenster™ polyester
- Lightweight yet warm wadding
- 2 x pockets
- Organic cotton corduroy binding
- Also available in Lightweight and Unwadded weights
Sizing Advice: The Barton is true to size and allows room for layers underneath. If you would like to layer this gilet under a coat or jacket we would advise sizing up.
Josi is 176cm / 5 ft 9.5 in and wears a size 10.
Finding the Best Fit
All of our size recommendations are based on our team's own sizes and preferences. The exact measurements for each gilet can be found on the product page. We recommend comparing these with a garment that you already own and like the fit of, to work out your ideal size.
For more personalised advice and guidance, don't hesitate to reach out to us on social media or email us at customerservice@lavenhamjackets.com. We would love to hear from you and help you find your ideal Lavenham gilet.