History of the trench coat

Trench coat is a unique piece of clothing. Like the little black dress it became a classic. Its history goes back almost two centuries, but it still remains one of the most huge trends in world fashion. Trench coat is an adapted military garb. It has become a model of classical style and symbol of elegance. Classic trench refers to the military style which occupies the minds of the great designers for many years and remains popular among the common people due to its practicality and convenience. Exactly these two qualities gave birth to a trench, but not for the sake of dandies. Initially raincoat was invented for the British Army during the First World War - it defended the soldiers in the trenches against the cold and rain.  During the Second World War the officers began to wear trench coats in bad weather also. Other countries, primarily the United States and the Soviet Union, began to dress their soldiers and officers in the shortened and modified variants of trench coat. A smaller length allowed them to be more mobile.

According to the most widespread opinion, the trench coat is considered to be a creation of  British fashion house Burberry. It was Thomas Burberry sewed it for the first time in 1901 from gabardine fabric (which he had created himself). However, many fashion historians are inclined to believe that Aquascutum company became the pioneer in its creation - their first trench coat was created in 1850. Nevertheless, it is Burberry beige coat with plaid lining that has been regarded as a model of the classic trench for many years. It took several decades before the trench coat appeared in wardrobes of common people, but it is enough to make this article of clothing to remain forever in the history of fashion. At first trench coat was only a male prerogative, but as it had happened with some other pieces of clothing, women fell in love with it a bit later.

          An interesting fact is that the design of trench coat almost hasn’t changed since its creation. The cut and the general details remain the same. Actors and singers who were celebrities of that time wore trench coats which still look stylish today. Trench coat has a turn-down collar, the bottom of which is fastened with the buckle or a button in order to protect chest fromwind. Usually there is a storm plat behind that is fastened with a button in the middle. You can also meet and models with inverted pleats. Because of its historical origins, the shoulder parts of the trench coat looks like a shoulder insignia of rank on the uniform. Pockets are provided with flaps and fastened with buttons. Belt with a buckle is an essential detail which characterizes this type of clothing, although few people use it. The sleeves at the wrist are tightened with straps. It is always in fashion - timeless classics.