What is the old name for jacket?

Short answer: centuries before we said “jacket,” people wore doublets and jerkins. The doublet was a close-fitting, long-sleeved upper garment (think 14th–17th century Europe), while the jerkin was often sleeveless, worn over the doublet for warmth and style. Over time, these evolved into various “little coats”—the word jaquette in French—until “jacket” became the everyday term we use now.

But why does that matter today? Because the spirit of those pieces—function, protection, and identity—lives on in modern outerwear, especially in the versatile anorak. And when you take that classic into the present with personalized anorak jackets, you don’t just wear a layer; you wear your story.

A quick timeline of jacket ancestors

• Gambeson (medieval): Quilted, padded protection. Practical first, style second.

• Doublet (Renaissance): Tailored, structured, and often decorative—the early blueprint of the fitted jacket.

• Jerkin (Tudor/Elizabethan): Sleeveless outer layer over a doublet; leather and wool were common.

• Greatcoat & Mackintosh (18th–19th century): Heavier, weather-ready layers; the idea of “utility first” returns.

• Anorak (20th century): A hooded, pullover shell with roots in cold-weather survival—streamlined protection for wind and rain.

Each step blends utility with identity—exactly what your brand, team, or organization wants from modern uniforms and merch.

From doublets to anoraks: same purpose, smarter build

The old names tell us what people needed: warmth, durability, and a canvas for rank or affiliation. Today’s anorak keeps that DNA but updates the details:

• Weather-smart shells: Lightweight, water-repellent or waterproof fabrics protect without bulk.

• Hooded pullover silhouette: A timeless look that shields from wind and light rain.

• Customizable real estate: Front panels, sleeves, and hoods become prime spots for logos, event marks, and team identity.

When you make personalized anorak jackets, you’re tapping the same tradition as the doublet and jerkin—clear identity, built to last—just optimized for modern movement, climate, and brand storytelling.

Where personalized anoraks shine

• Teams & clubs: Pre-game, post-game, and travel layers that unify the squad.

• Outdoor crews & events: Weather shifts? Zip pocket, hood up, go.

• Retail staff & pop-ups: A cohesive look that stands out in crowds and photos.

• Campus & org merch: A staple that gets worn every week (great visibility for your mark).

Make it yours: smart customization ideas

Placement that pops

• Left-chest embroidery for a timeless, premium feel

• Bold sleeve prints for modern street appeal

• Oversized back art for event or campaign statements

Design treatments

• Tone-on-tone for sleek corporate minimalism

• High-contrast gradients for sports and student orgs

• Patch + print combos to echo that “doublet + jerkin” layered heritage—texture and graphic together

Functional upgrades

• Media-friendly pockets

• Adjustable hems/hoods

• Mesh linings for tropical comfort

Craft Clothing’s difference: built like it matters

At Craft Clothing, we’re artisans at heart. We obsess over stitching, fabric hand, and finishes because your name sits on our work. Share your idea; we’ll translate it into a crisp mockup, fine-tune the details, and produce personalized anorak jackets that feel as good as they look—wash after wash, season after season.

Ready to turn heritage into a modern classic? Explore our anoraks here: personalized anorak jackets

FAQ: Old names, new layers

So… what is the old name for jacket?
Historically, doublet (close-fitting, long-sleeved) and jerkin (sleeveless over-layer) are the most cited ancestors.

Is an anorak just a “rain jacket”?
Not exactly. Many anoraks are water-repellent or waterproof, but the hallmark is the pullover + hood combo with functional pockets and a clean, athletic profile.

Can we combine embroidery and printing?
Absolutely. Pair a stitched chest logo with a printed sleeve or back graphic for depth and durability—old-meets-new in the best way.

From doublet and jerkin to your team’s signature shell: the name changed, but the mission stayed the same—protection, pride, and craft. If you’re ready to outfit your crew with that legacy, let’s build your personalized anorak jackets today: Shop the collection.