Akimbo Faded Tan Key Imperial Hooded Work Jacket-1980’s: A True Statement of a Nineties Classic.

With a jacket such as the Akimbo Faded Tan Key Imperial Hooded Work Jacket-1980s, there’s a simple issue: the hooded patch will begin to rub off.The one thing about a jacket like the Akimbo Faded Tan Key Imperial Hooded Work Jacket-1980s is that the hooded patch will start to rub off. Does not come across as being in too much of a hurry. It’s a piece that has already been used for four decades, and it still looks fantastic when it’s not in use.

Akimbo Clothing began as a vintage resale store in Salt Lake City, but has since made their own gear. When we say something like this, we’re not just speculating. We know workwear. We know what lasts. And we understand why that old 1980s-style faded tan hooded work jacket is still relevant now.

What You’re Actually Getting This is a quiz about what you’re actually getting.

This isn’t a costume. A true 1980’s work jacket by Key Imperial, a brand name established for its rugged American workwear. The faded tan color is not a factory color. It’s time. It’s sunny. It took years of honest wearing to soften the cotton and impart a texture that can’t be copied.

It is the hood that makes it unique. Most work jackets of that time period will have collars. A hooded version is more difficult to come by, and it alters the action of the jacket. It’s less stiff, less homey, less like something you pick up when you’re heading out the door.

It’s vintage, so it won’t fit like a rack today. That’s what you do as part of the contract. You take the measurements. You imagine that it has a story. And you wear it because no one has anything like it.

How to Wear It Without Overthinking It

Tan is a warm neutral colour. It comes with more than you would expect. A simple white tee under and dark denim is the obvious choice and it’s correct. Another option is to wear it with an Akimbo Hoodie when it’s just in a state of indecision outside. When the tan is faded and the hoodie finish is a faded type, the two finishes blend together without appearing as if they were trying to match.

For a casual weekend outfit, go with Akimbo Sweatpants and sneakers. Or wear it over the Chain Peeker Single Stitched T Shirt for a put together yet not over-the-top look.

Here’s a little bit that’s important, the jacket is short. The work jackets of this time typically fit around the waist. This means it can be layered under a heavier coat when you need it or over an Akimbo Sweater, without any bunching.

Keeping It Alive (Care that Actually Makes Sense)

A 40-year-old jacket will not respond to the same treatment as a new zip-up. The fabric has already been through many trials and tribulations. So be gentle.

Wash inside out, on a delicate cycle, cold. Or, if you have the patience, hand wash it. Old cotton is destroyed by hot water and agitation. Skip them. Use a mild detergent that doesn’t contain bleach or brighteners. Oh, and don’t put it in the dryer. It will become smaller in size as the heat is applied and the tumbling will damage the seams. Hang it instead. Avoid direct sunlight as it is the cause of fading in the first place, and you don’t want it to continue fading.

A quick hang outside in the shade does more than a full wash if it needs a refresh, or it has a storage smell. Vintage textiles don’t require much cleaning. They require proper care and maintenance.

The Details That Matter

The hood is adjustable with a drawstring. The front has a full zip. There are places they should be, but aren’t. And there’s some variation in the tan color from one panel to another; that’s what happens when a garment gets worn in the real world for decades. There are a few lighter spots. Some are warmer. None of them appear to be a fault. It seems like it’s a character.

Be warned: This is an old item and the zipper may not slide as smoothly as it will in a new item. Be patient with it. Just before wearing, also look at the seams and stress areas. With a little care, a great jacket can last a long time.

FAQs

Does the Akimbo Faded Tan Key Imperial Hooded Work Jacket run true?

No, vintage sizing is different. Always use measurements listed, not tag size. Compare them with an existing jacket that you already have.

Is it OK to wash old 80s work pants with a machine?

Yes, but cold and gentle, inside out. No bleach. No dryer. Hang dry. If in any doubt, hand wash.

So what is the meaning of “faded tan”?

It refers to the original tan cotton having faded and softened due to sun and wear. It is naturally mottled.

Does this jacket shrink if I wash it improperly?

Cotton may shrink when it gets hot. It is prevented by cold water and air drying. Do not use the dryer.

Tips for wearing a work-jacket with a hood that doesn’t make me look like I’m in costume?

Go with a simple idea. Plain tee, jeans, sneakers or an Akimbo Zip Up under. Make the jacket the focal point.

Will it last through the summer?

Not heavy, it is a cotton work jacket. However, the vintage fabric and hood are best for spring and fall. Works well during a cool summer night.

Is this the same as Akimbo Club products?

At Akimbo Clothing, we feature vintage items like this and our own hoodies, tees and sweatpants. It’s all the same eye for workwear and streetwear . The vintage is a part of what we do.

Final Thoughts

The right jacket doesn’t need to be sold. The Akimbo Faded Tan Key Imperial Hooded Work Jacket-1980s is already proven. It sustained four decades of usage, and it remains here, useful and better than many things manufactured last year.