How we grade and approve our jackets
Curated for Quality. Approved for TDC.
At The Distinctive Citizen, every jacket must meet our condition criteria before it becomes part of the collection.
These are pre-loved, one-off pieces with character — not jackets with damage, neglect, or major wear.
Here, quality comes first.
What You’ll Never Find at TDC
We do not list jackets with:
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Major stains in visible areas
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Rips, tears, or holes affecting appearance or structure
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Broken or missing zippers, snaps, or buttons
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Heavy sun damage or severe fading
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Strong odours (smoke, mould, chemicals, etc.)
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Poorly done repairs or mismatched stitching
Any jacket with these issues is rejected immediately.
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What’s Considered Normal Wear
Light, natural ageing is part of the charm.
Acceptable signs include:
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Minor surface scuffs or patina
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Light leather creasing
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Small marks in low-visibility areas
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Subtle hardware ageing (vintage brass look)
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Gentle wear on inner lining
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Natural colour variation over time
If something stands out more than “minor,” it will be photographed and noted.
Our Quality Check
Every jacket must pass all six steps:
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Exterior Panels – clean, strong, and structurally sound
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Hardware – zippers, buttons, and snaps fully working
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Interior Lining – no major tears or marks
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Shape & Structure – no sagging, collapsing, or warping
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Finish & Colour – no excessive fading or sun damage
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Smell Check – must pass with no exceptions
Only pieces that clear all steps become part of the TDC lineup.
One-Off Pieces. No Surprises.
Photos show the exact jacket you are buying — never stock images.
No hidden flaws. No misdirection.
What you see is exactly what arrives.
Why These Standards Matter
Vintage should feel confident — not compromised.
Clean, rugged, and timeless pieces deserve owners who appreciate them.
Our standards ensure you get jackets that still have years of life, character, and story left in them.
