Rowing Blazers, Jack Carlson

Rooted in the traditions of rowing clubs yet constantly reinvented through fashion and youth culture, the blazer has evolved from a sporting uniform into a global style icon. From striped boating jackets and collegiate tailoring to contemporary streetwear reinterpretations, this book traces the rich visual history of a garment that has long balanced elegance, rebellion, and belonging.

Filled with archival photography, vintage ephemera, and sharply observed commentary, Rowing Blazers explores the cultural worlds surrounding the blazer—from Ivy League campuses and British regattas to music scenes and modern fashion labels. Blending nostalgia with wit and contemporary style, the book celebrates the enduring appeal of tailored dressing and the communities, rituals, and identities stitched into every stripe and crest.

About the Author

Jack Carlson is a writer, historian, and founder of the fashion label Rowing Blazers. A former member of the US national rowing team and a scholar of classical studies, he brings together academic research, sporting heritage, and contemporary fashion culture in his work, exploring how clothing can carry tradition while remaining playful and relevant.

Publication date: 2024
Publisher: Thames & Hudson
Pages: 328
ISBN: 9780865653986