Star 28557

A singular icon of wartime craftsmanship, this A-2 Jacket from Star Sportswear Mfg. Co. of Lynn, Massachusetts represents the manufacturer’s only A-2 contract, reflecting decades of expertise supplying premium leather garments to the U.S. Army Air Forces and Navy. Notably, jackets bearing labels marked Star Sportswear Order No. 42-18245 and Star Sportswear Contract No. W535 AC-28557 are now understood to derive from the same historic contract—an enigmatic detail that adds to its allure.

The Star A-2 pattern is elegantly tailored, trim through the waist yet supremely comfortable, with a wider upper back and expertly inset (rotated) sleeves allowing for effortless mobility. Its signature “crescent-moon” collar sits lower at the front, remaining clear of the wearer’s chin, while Star uniquely employed brass-eyelet throat hooks, a detail unmatched by any other A-2 maker.

Original Star jackets were rendered in rich seal brown or deep russet horsehide, finished with tan or muted purple-brown stitching, brown linings, mid- to dark-brown knits, ball-stud snaps, and period-correct M-42 nickel Talon or Crown zippers. Pockets featured Star’s characteristic triangle stitch and separate snap tabs—subtle hallmarks of its distinguished design.

Our reproduction, executed in Liberty Seal Horsehide with dark tan lining and Perry-purple thread, captures every nuance with exquisite attention to detail, preserving the historic integrity while offering a refined, modern-feeling fit. This is not merely a jacket; it is a collector’s masterpiece, a wearable testament to heritage, craftsmanship, and timeless style.