Why the trench is one of the most iconic coats in the world
Everything you need to know about one of the most well-recognised pieces of Great British design
Words: India Gladstone
Like many of fashion’s most iconic forefathers, the trench was born within a military context. For centuries, military dress has influenced fashion and vice versa and in this instance, the trench coat was created for soldiers during the First World War as an alternative to the heavier coats worn up until that point, which were typically made of wool.
Given that it was designed for army use, the trench coat was all about function over form; its primary aims were to protect soldiers from the fiercest of weather conditions as well as to allow for maximum range of motion.
After the war, soldiers continued to wear their trenches in civilian life which meant that they eventually became a hallmark of great British style – an accolade it still proudly holds today. For contemporary, sophisticated gentleman all over the world, the trench coat is very much still considered a design classic thanks not only to its ability to be the most stylish piece in your wardrobe, but also its functionality. Its lightweight construction and waterproof capabilities mean that there is no better piece of outerwear for our typically unpredictable British weather.
For contemporary, sophisticated gentleman all over the world, the trench coat is very much still considered a design classic
Thomas Burberry is often credited with the mastery of inventing this wonderful garment when he developed a coat made from tightly woven, water-repellent cloth, which was later used for the forerunner of the trench coat. In 1914, Burberry was then commissioned by the war office to adapt its officer’s coat to suit the conditions of contemporary warfare, thus resulting in the trench coat.
For over a century now, this coat has remained one of the most iconic pieces of design in the world, and for good reason too. If it’s good enough for the heroes of warfare, it’s good enough for you.
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