Saxon Fencing Club

A typical right-handed fencing jacket..

The jacket is constructed of a strong cloth, often nowadays of a Kevlar material.
It is done-up by a zip fastener on the side of your chest furthest from your sword arm. In other words the jackets are handed, the one above being for a right-handed fencer.
This is so that it minimises the risk of your opponent's weapon snagging or entering the zip. The cuffs are also elasticated, or have some means of closing them, to similarly help prevent accidents with your opponent' blade. It also has a high collar for similar reasons. The webbing strap, that passes between the wearer's legs to fasten at the back, prevents the jacket riding up and exposing one's sides and groin (a legitimate part of the target area in foil and epee!).
Very importantly, the ladies' jackets also have extra chest protectors built into the lining.
Obviously, a left handed jacket is a mirror image of the right handed one...

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(There are specific technical datas as to the required strength and constuction of these materials, all available from the
British Fencing Association,
the governing body of the sport in the U.K.)