Every item developed by Amber&Key has its own story. With each collection, we emphasize the timelessness of our clothing. We create garments that reference eternal classics and want our pieces to become classics too—not just another passing trend. That's why we've created a t-shirt inspired by the legendary M-65 jacket. Now, let's dive into the history of this iconic piece.
1. Origins and Military History
The M-65 jacket was developed in 1965 for the U.S. Army as an improved version of earlier models (M-43 and M-51). It was designed to replace outdated field jackets from World War II and the Korean War.
Key features:
- Versatility – suitable for various weather conditions.
- Hood – stowed inside the collar (a first for military uniforms).
- Durability – made from cotton and nylon (later blended fabrics).
- Pockets – four spacious pockets (two chest, two side).
- Zipper + wind flap – for extra protection against the cold.
2. How the M-65 Became a Pop Culture Icon
After the Vietnam War (1960s–1970s), the jacket transitioned into civilian fashion thanks to:
- Veterans – soldiers returning home continued wearing the M-65 as everyday attire.
- Anti-war movements – hippies and activists adopted it as a protest symbol.
- Film and music – iconic characters and musicians turned it into a fashion staple.
T-shirt "Through the Mirror Dark-Grey"
Hoodie "Belmore Cafeteria"
Pants "Taxi Driver Black"
Long Sleeve "Crime Scene Layout"
Bag "Dependable Taxi Service"
T-shirt "Isolation"
Jacket "Arc Jacket Taxi Driver"
Posters "God, You`re Square"
Pants "Taxi Driver Dark Brown"
T-shirt "Through the Mirror Grey melange"
Pin "Taxi Driver"
Hoodie "We Are the People"
T-shirt "M65"
3. Who Wore the M-65?
Celebrities who popularized the jacket:
Film and music:
- Robert De Niro in "Taxi Driver" (1976) – as Travis Bickle.
- Sylvester Stallone in "First Blood" (1982).
- Tom Cruise in "Born on the Fourth of July" (1989).
- Ryan Gosling in "Drive" (2011) – embodying minimalist masculinity.
- David Bowie – wore the M-65 in the 1970s.
- Bob Dylan – frequently appeared in it on album covers.
- Kanye West – incorporated it into his 2000s streetwear looks.
The M-65 in Film and Its Fashion Influence:
Movies that cemented its iconic status:
- "Apocalypse Now" (1979) – military aesthetics.
- "The Terminator" (1984) – Arnold Schwarzenegger in a similar style.
- "Forrest Gump" (1994) – a symbol of the Vietnam era.
- "Pulp Fiction" (1994) – 90s streetwear vibes.
4. Trends sparked by the M-65:
- Street fashion – became a wardrobe staple for skinheads, punks, and hip-hop artists.
- Unisex style – women like Madonna and Kate Moss embraced it in the 1980s.
- Military-inspired looks – designers (Ralph Lauren, Stone Island) featured it in collections.
- Luxury reinventions – Gucci and Balenciaga reimagined premium versions.
5. Modern Popularity
Today, the M-65 remains a style icon due to:
- Functionality – perfect for fall/spring.
- Nostalgia – a vintage trend from the 90s and 2000s.
- Collaborations – Supreme and Stüssy release limited editions.
The M-65 isn’t just a jacket—it’s a cultural artifact that evolved from military gear to a symbol of rebellion, cinema, and high fashion. Worn by everyone from veterans to modern influencers, its timeless appeal is undeniable.
