Faireware Jerkin-Reversible (XL-48, Brown/Khaki)

One reviewer (who didn't own the item) called it a shirt, but it is made up of thick durable material which I would compare to two layers of apron material stitched together. It's thick and rigid enough it's not going to "hang" on you like a shirt at all. The material is at least partly synthetic but this will not be at all obvious unless you're really up close (it may be part cotton blended).I bought this and immediately returned it because it was much longer than I expected. The seller was very courteous and prompt. Based on the picture I expected it to be about even with my wrists, but it was about 30 inches from my shoulder (closest to the neck) to the bottom edge. The seller explained these are usually worn with a belt or sash around them which makes the bottom come up higher. Without a belt, in my case (5ft11 tall) the bottom hung 2 or 3 inches below the crotch of a pair of pants. The thick lacing looks very synthetic and if I kept them I'd probably replace it with leather cord or something else that looks more natural, which is easy enough switch.Hopefully this description will help you make sure whether this is what you are looking for. The main reason I give it four stars is because when I'm wearing a period costume I don't want the materials to look like synthetic modern materials. However I think synthetics like this are probably very common in dress at renaissance faires and the like and not obvious to most people. However if you're a cotton/wool/flax purist take note.

Order 2 sizes up if you want some looseness. The measurement they list is AS-IS precisely, leaving little - to no room for moving.

The jerkin fit very well. I wore it for two days at the Renaissance Festival, once with each color. The only improvement I would suggest is the addition of pockets.

The jerkin, along with the cap, breeches & shirt that I also purchased from Designs by Kate/Faireware, impressed my Ren Faire friends. I am very satisfied with the product & plan to do business with Kate again in the future. Jerkin-Reversible (L-44, Brown/Forest)

I wore this to Renaissance Faire and people kept thinking I was staff and asking me where to find things. I also got a ton of "Huzzahs!"Oh and the garment is actually well constructed. You won't be disappointed with this.

This is a very nice jerkin. Good quality fabric and craftsmanship. I ordered this for my boyfriend for Halloween and he loves it. He said it was very comfortable to wear. I should mention he has very wide shoulders and wears a 38 pant and the XL jerkin was "just" large enough to lace up all the way up the front, but it was a little snug. If you are trying to decide what size to go with and you have a bit of a belly you might want to go up a size larger than normal.

Runs a little on the small side. Good construction. Easy care

Nice quality but way too small. I re measured my chest and it was still the same. They must have been using a Chinese tape-measure!