timeless classic | trench coat
as i gear up for my trip to Boston, the weather forecast has been checked countless times. guess what? rain is in the forecast. of course, things can change between today and next monday, but if the meteorologist claims 60% chance of rain, then you better believe i’m going to pack accordingly. has anyone been caught in a rainstorm without the proper gear?! exactly. so i’m taking along a raincoat and trusty umbrella just to play it safe. since i have rain on the brain what better day to talk about the timeless, iconic trenchcoat?
of course, Burberry reigns supreme when it comes to a khaki trench. historians claim Thomas Burberry invented gabardine fabric in 1879. in 1901 he designed and submitted an Army Officer’s raincoat to the United Kingdom War Office, and so the military trench began its life. during WWI British Officers wore trench coats that had been modified with shoulder straps and D-rings. the ring was included so that map cases, swords or other equipment could easily attach to the belt. after all, necessity is the mother of invention.
want a variation of a solid color trench? try an animal print or snakeskin – like the above trench. similar here, here, and here. a favorite way to wear a trench is belted not buttoned.
a traditional trench is long, double-breasted, has ten buttons and comes in black, tan, khaki or beige. trench coats often incorporate cuff straps, raglan sleeves, shoulder straps and belts. in the early years, sizing was quite generous as this water-repellent coat would be worn over a heavier coat for the purpose of staying dry. today, the mighty trench has been re-sized and is form fitting. many coats offer zip in linings.
it’s always interesting to me to learn about the origins of an iconic classic. where it’s been and what’s changed through the years. in my humble opinion, nothing beats a tried-and-true khaki trench coat. there are so many versions these days with a variety of price points. splurge vs. save. so i’ve pulled together several raincoats i’ve purchased through the years for inspiration (including my dad’s Burberry) plus i rounded up modern updates to this iconic classic that are available today. ‘cuz it’s trench season once again, ladies.
if you’re looking for a dupe, pay attention to details. remember, the classic trench has ten buttons, wrist cuffs, and a belt. check out these terrific steals here, here, and here i also like to wear my trench coat unbuttoned with the belt tied in the back.
black is also a traditional trench coat color. and we all know black goes with everything so it’s a perfect choice. there’s a variety to choose from here, here, and here.
a silk scarf adds a little pizazz to a plain trench whether tied around your neck for warmth or fastened around your handbag. similar scarf here, here, and here
the king of trench coats – the iconic Burberry. this is my father’s coat purchased in England years ago that i’m loath to part with. classics have a way of doing that to me once it’s found it’s way into my closet. and funny enough, so many articles of clothing have a happy memory attached to it – like this trench. happy tuesday, ladies!
Great selection of trench coats! The most interesting one is your dad’s. Love that you have kept it and treasure it. Have a good trip to Boston. It’s going to be summer hot here…ugh…
I’ve been thinking about adding a trench coat to my wardrobe and you’ve given us some great choices here. I love your dad’s coat – what fabulous style there! Many years ago, I bought a Burberry trench in a microfiber type fabric in soft grey. Unfortunately, I purchased it too large for me and it became too big to be flattering so I gave it to a friend. Now I can’t afford a Burberry – oh well there are other cute ones!
I love the modern fitted trench coats that flatter waistlines, especially the animal print one.
Alas, It’s time for down parkas and boots tomorrow, because snow is on the way. If the Great White Fire Extinguisher puts outs some forest fires, it’s all good.
I just got back from NYC and one night it rained a good bit. I was very glad i had a trench with me. And my favorite trusty umbrella from Blunt. These all look fabulous. I got myself a khaki green trench a few years ago that I’ve gotten fond of. Hope the sun comes out for you in Bean Town.
What a varied selection of trench coats! I would love to hear more about finding a color of “khaki” or whatever one names the traditional trench color (beige, khaki, etc.) because some tones are more flattering to certain complexions. I have trouble reading the tones of such colors.