Wardrobe Essential – The Trench Coat

Like many of the most iconic items of clothing, the trench coat was born within a military context, being 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; it’s 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 and they caught on in a big way, becoming a hallmark of British style and even being immortalised in films such as Casablanca and Le Samourai. Today, the trench coat is considered a design classic and thanks to its lightweight construction and waterproof capabilities, there is no better piece of outerwear for our typically unpredictable British weather.

BURBERRY SANDRINGHAM LONG TRENCH COAT, A Burberry trench coat is considered a lifetime investment piece and, as they have shown throughout their century-long production, they will quite simply never date. Timeless in every sense of the word, this Sandringham trench is the benchmark for the competition, featuring a traditional 10-button double-breasted front, shoulder epaulettes, a storm flap and the signature Burberry house check lining., , Burberry Sandringham Long Heritage Trench Coat, £1,195 from Burberry

MACKINTOSH COATED LINEN TRENCH COAT, Made from a unique coated linen, this Mackintosh trench is a seasonal take on the traditional outwear piece. Its army green colour and mid-length finish make it a great alternative to the traditional khaki trench and it’s just as versatile, suiting a range of both casual and more formal looks., , Mackintosh Coated Linen Trench Coat, £740 from Mr Porter

BOTTEGA VENETA LIGHTWEIGHT PACKAWAY TRENCH COAT, Coming with its own packaway pouch, this Bottega Veneta piece is perfect for staying dry this season. A more minimal variation on traditional trench styling, the jacket features a single-breasted hidden placket and a zip and button closure, but its belted waist and unstructured finish makes it no less stylish., , Bottega Veneta Lightweight Packaway Trench Coat, £700 from Mr Porter

By Charlie Thomas Twitter charlieacthomas