How To Wear: The Trench Coat

The trench coat is an integral part of an elegant gentleman’s wardrobe. It is a timeless outerwear style and a stylish essential for transitional seasons of spring and fall. Today we’re discussing the origins and the features of the trench coat and the many ways to style it.

The History of the Trench Coat

Like many other outerwear styles, the trench coat was originally an item of clothing for army officers.

The cloth from which trench coats are made was created in the 1870s by British clothier Thomas Burberry. He developed a wool fabric that was chemically processed to resist the elements. The invention was called gabardine.

The outbreak of World War I created a need for a resistant garment to protect the soldiers fighting in the trenches. Burberry designed just such a coat — the trench coat. It was made of gabardine and repelled water.

After the war, the trench coat was adopted for civilian use, becoming a popular coat style with both men and women.

The Characteristics of the Trench Coat

The style

A trench coat is a raincoat, traditionally double breasted, belted and with lapels. The coat often has straps around the wrists that also buckle and shoulder straps.

The fabric

Today trench coats are made of cotton gabardine, waxed cotton and even suede and leather.

Popular colors

The classic version of the trench coat is khaki or beige. You can also opt for one in grey, navy, army green or black.

How to Style the Trench Coat

How to wear the trench coat with a suit

The beauty of the trench coat is that it’s an extremely versatile outerwear piece. It works well with almost any style, from formal to relaxed. So the trench coat is the perfect coat to add to your suited spring outfits.

How to wear the trench coat with smart casual outfits

The trench coat is an essential in the transitional seasons of spring and fall. Its elegance makes it a perfect coat for office looks. Throw it on your business casual ensembles for an impeccable workwear style.

How to wear the trench coat with sporty outfits

As we’ve already said, the trench coat is a universal coat, meaning it works with a laid-back outfit just as well as it does with a classic look. Wear it with jeans and sneakers to dress up your sporty looks.

Discover even more ways to style a trench coat from our collection of looks.

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