In a fast-paced, ever-changing world, it is all too easy for tradition to fall by the wayside. Our recently redesigned Old Melburnian blazer is a visible way of confirming that the traditions of the School and the Old Melburnians continue, and to signal our connection to each other.
The blazer’s colours come directly from the Old Melburnian tie: Oxford blue with gold, red, and silver stripes, and the blazer’s original 1925 design was based on the tie’s distinctive striped pattern.
As early as 1937, The Melburnian advertised a version of the Old Melburnian blazer available to our London Branch, then tailored by army and cadet outfitters Wilkes Todhunter. Old Melburnian blazers are still worn by UK alumni today, and have been seen at events such as the annual Royal Henley Regatta.
After a plain navy blazer was introduced during post-war austerity, the striped design was revived by Alexander & Lawrence, the family business of Don Lawrence (OM 1940), in the 1950s. Douglas Tsoi (OM 2004) designed our current blazer, which is now made-to-order with cuts available for both men and women.
The blazer is already becoming popular across the Old Melburnian community as both a personal statement and a garment that can be passed down to younger family members. Expect to see it at our next Annual Dinner, the Cordner-Eggleston Cup, and the Head of the River, among other Old Melburnian gatherings.
The Old Melburnian blazer is a simple way to signify our common legacy – the shared values and enduring friendships that connect us across generations, and around the world.
Old Melburnian Merchandise is available for purchase on here.
