The Trench Coat ; A Classic Wardrobe Staple

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The trench coat is classic wardrobe staple for both men and women. I always say that no wardrobe is complete without a trench coat. Trench coats have been made iconic by hollywood, no old hollywood crime drama is complete without the trench coat.From  Humphrey Bogart in Casablanca to Peter Selllers as Inspector Clouseau the trench coat was a staple.trench coat

 

The Trench Coat a brief History

Despite the trench coat’s aesthetic prowess however, it was of course initially created with function rather than form in mind. Like many classic pieces in the modern wardrobe, the trench was first designed for use in the military- during World War I to be exact. Prior to the war, rain jackets and waterproof fabric existed, but both were in need of major improvement.

Recognizing a need in the late 1800s for a waterproof/resistant fabric that was less stinky and sweaty than the currently available rubberized cotton, Burberry created a new fabric in which the individual threads were rubberized, rather than the entire cloth. Thus, gabardine, a waterproof yet breathable cotton fabric, was born. The remaining characteristics, however, came directly from the demands of military use.

The introduction of the khaki color was one of the first moves towards camouflage. Prior to WWI, most battles were fought close range, and bright uniforms were essential in identifying one’s comrades. As military technology developed, those bright colors turned into a liability as it only made soldiers easier targets. Instead, armies started trying to blend into their backgrounds, and khaki was the first choice.

How Gabardine Changed The Trench Coat

The final development that sparked the trench coat was the introduction of trench warfare. British soldiers and officers who had traditionally worn heavy serge (wool) topcoats. These kinds of coats were already heavy when worn dry, and became dangerous hazards in the trenches, where they would get wet, caked with mud, and seriously hinder movement and mobility.

Gabardine was introduced as an alternative, and while the trench coat never became standard issue, it became a highly desirable piece of optional outerwear in the British Army. From that point on, the garment was picked up by armies across the world, and eventually the general public.

Over time not much has changed – the double-breasted closure and wide lapels were there from the start, along with the belt to hold things together. The epaulets were added during WWI to allow soldiers to display rank, and D-rings found their place supposedly to hang grenades from, although that claim has never been wholly substantiated.Thus a classic was born.

The Trench Coat ; A Classic Wardrobe Staple a Beacon of Stylefile_000

Whether you’re on a tight budget or looking to invest, a crisp and classic trench coat is a must-have item for every girls closet.Worn over jeans or your favorite little black dress the trench coat is classic , versatile and chic.When considering the purchase of a trench coat I have given you 5 tips.

 

5 tips for buying the perfect trench coat

  1. A trench coat must fit you comfortably both undone and fully buttoned-up (even if you never intend to wear it this way).
  2. Look for quality buttons and hardware: These small details will make even an inexpensive trench coat look expensive.
  3. Avoid overpowering belts, trendy detailing and dramatic collars that will make your coat look outdated next season.
  4. Consider scale. If you are petite, opt for an above-the knee trench coat. If you are pear-shaped, an A-line cut will flatter your silhouette. Tall? Look for sleeves that are long, not cropped.
  5. And remember: Don’t be afraid to spend a little more money for a good-quality coat. Trenches never go out of style

So in closing make sure you have a trench in your closet . This classic garment is easy chic and always in fashion. You can wear a classic  coat for years so choose carefully .

Ciao for now

Jandrew
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