CHAPAL and CAULAINCOURT have meticulously reinterpreted the USAAF jacket worn by World War II aviators. Crafted from glossy brown sheepskin leather with a luxurious gold sheep fur collar, the jacket retains its historical significance. Its design is enriched with elements inspired by American squadron illustrations, reminiscent of GI jackets and biker gang insignias from the 1950s. This historical depth aligns perfectly with CHAPAL’s legacy of craftsmanship, where every jacket is tanned and manufactured in-house, preserving artisanal excellence since 1832.

Russian artist Yann Avril brought Alexis Lafont’s vision to life through gold-thread embroidery that adorns the jacket. A leather patch on the left breast replicates an aviator's nameplate, complete with CAULAINCOURT's four-bee logo symbolizing victory. The back features an embroidered pin-up sitting on a bomb, complemented by screen-printed orange designs on the lining. These creative flourishes seamlessly merge military heritage with bold, artistic expression.

The jacket’s patina, applied entirely by hand, showcases CAULAINCOURT’s expertise in shoe craftsmanship. Liquid inks specially formulated for leather are layered to achieve a natural, lived-in effect. Each piece becomes one-of-a-kind through this intricate process, blending CHAPAL’s tanning techniques with CAULAINCOURT’s innovative patina artistry.

Dubbed “Bandit,” the jacket embodies a rebellious yet refined aesthetic. It evokes vintage style while exuding a bad-boy attitude. CHAPAL’s American roots in Brooklyn and its deep historical ties provide the perfect backdrop for this bold reinterpretation. Jean-François Bardinon, President of CHAPAL, emphasized the freedom given to Alexis Lafont in crafting a piece for a new audience, blending history and modernity seamlessly.

This limited-edition USAAF jacket represents the shared passion for elegance and craftsmanship that unites CHAPAL and CAULAINCOURT. Available to order from both brands, it offers discerning customers a unique opportunity to own a piece that redefines vintage style with unparalleled artistry and historical depth.