1980s Avirex ‘Skull’ Leather Two Tone Patched Varsity Jacket

Avirex’s brand ethos are rooted in the story of a small factory in Long Island, New York. Dating back to the 1960s, Avirex, who was originally supplying goods to the US Military, was on the edge of bankruptcy as manufacturing costs rose. Such a price increase forced the army to cease demand for A2 and B3 jackets, while the Navy followed suit, cancelling orders for G1 models. In the midst of financial hardship, an Arizona lawyer would pitch the idea of commercial expansion for the Avirex label, pushing higher ups to register the brand’s trademark. By 1975, Avirex, a derivative from the Latin words ‘avis’ for bird and aviation, as well as ‘rex’ for king, i.e the height of quality and craft, would go on to challenge the industry standard for leather working. Becoming a pop-culture icon in the 90s hip-hop and music scene, Avirex would become a renowned staple of vintage and collector’s wear.

 

Debuting in the 80s, this leather overcoat comes in a gorgeous teal two tone wash. With an aged patina throughout, chenille patches plague the torso and sleeves, in company with embroidered ‘Sky Kings’ embroidery and emblems on the underside. The skeleton of an aviation pilot then plagued the back, in pair with arc Avirex and Cadet spell out motifs. Tagged as a size extra large, in pristine condition throughout.