The Trench Coat - A Trend For All Seasons
As it goes, the trench coat first became popular during World War 1 after originally being developed for the British military. And the classic design is not too dissimilar to what is now recognised by many as the traditional trench coat - double breasted with slotted pockets, an adaptable collar and four buttons.
Elements of the original trench coat design that were created for practicality, are now just included for style. Different designers now re-create the trench coat to provide a range of different features around the same style. Indeed, fashionistas can now choose from double breasted or single breasted, cropped or full length, belted and even wax-coated.
So, why has the trench coat developed such a strong appeal, year after year? One obvious reason is the British weather; trench coats can provide a practical but trendy cover-up. Furthermore, they have an all-weather appeal, with designs including a removable liner, which can last you through all seasons.
Furthermore, the key trends in recent times for men's coats include the duffle coat, the pea coat, leather coats and blazers. However, for something a bit more adaptable, a short coat such as the cropped or three quarter length trench coat provides that extra flexibility in style.
The professional choice for businessmen, trench coats are no longer just for wearing over suits; now trench coats can compliment a range of styles and outfits from casual jeans to smart trousers. Indeed, the coat lends itself to the sophisticated and 'structured casual' look.
And it's not just a good raincoat; the trench can provide a certain romantic film-like finesse to your wardrobe. As such, famous style icons and trench coat wearers include Katharine Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart, to name but a few.
In fact, they have also been spotted being worn by politicians and artists alike; and the fashion has also been adopted by sports stars such as Serena Williams, who strolled onto court at Wimbledon 2008 with a pristine white cropped version.
Trench coats remain in fashion but the fabrics and styles adopted continue to update. With a range of fabrics from tartan to classic grey wool and a variety of lengths from cropped, full length and three quarter length, the trench coat has been brought back into this century.
Of course, bringing a classic up to date can be difficult, as it involves embracing the original elements of the design with new features that will appeal to the current trend setters. But trench coats continue to retain their popularity year after year, season after season. So if you have never owned one, it may be time for a new addition to your wardrobe.
Paul McIndoe writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.
