Must-have coats I: Trench Coat

The trench coat was developed as an alternative to the heavy serge greatcoats worn by British and French soldiers in the First World War. Invention of the trench coat is claimed by both Burberry and Aquascutum, with Aquascutum’s claim dating back to the 1850s. Thomas Burberry, the inventor of gabardine fabric, submitted a design for an army officer’s raincoat to the United Kingdom War Office in 1901.

The trench coat became an optional item of dress in the British Army, and was obtained by private purchase by officers and Warrant Officers Class I who were under no obligation to own them. No other ranks were permitted to wear them. Another optional item was the British Warm, a wool coat similar to the greatcoat that was shorter in length, also worn by British officers and Warrant Officers Class I as an optional piece.

Speaking of Trench coat, we can not ignore the name of Burberry. The British brand is certainly best known for its checkered pattern that originally lined the company’s trench coat beginning in 1924. Today, the design of a Burberry trench still has all of the traditional iconic detailing, but a refined shape with a smaller collar and patch pockets makes it relevant all over again.

Another brand can not be forgotten is London Fog. The trench coat has eased its way in and out of style throughout the decades, and has evolved tremendously along the way. London Fog has picked up on this evolution and added a slightly modern edge to the classic trench-coat look — a trend that is sure to stick around for as long as the chilly weather does.

Trench coat: impermeable sport coat with a belt.
Collar: part of the clothing that surrounds the neck.
Lapel: folded up part of the collar falling on the chest.
Belt loop: vertical attach into which slips a belt.
Flap pocket: pocket provided with a lapel.
Sleeve loop: attach into which slips a sleeve.
Belt: accessory allowing to maintain and adjust a clothing.
Button: piece being used to attach a clothing or as a decoration.
Storm patch: yoke on the front and the back.