Unveiling The Ultimate Guide To The Classic Trench Coat

Pumpkin spice season...

Also known as autumn or fall – a time of unparalleled beauty and opulence.

It's the season for luxurious textures like cashmere and leather, plush velvet boots, and pumpkin spice everything! Picture warm sunlight tinged with a crisp breeze, the artful layering of clothing, and the elegance of silk scarves.

Streets adorned with a golden foliage, evenings illuminated by breathtaking sunsets and cozy bonfires.

This transitional period between summer and winter offers us a momentary glimpse of all things exquisite, beginning with the world of fashion.

Enter the epitome of classic, timeless elegance:

The Trench Coat.

A wardrobe essential that effortlessly elevates any ensemble, suitable for myriad occasions and events.

history of the trench coat

Did you know the trench coat was actually first introduced in the early 1800’s, and was originally designed as weatherproof outerwear for both civilian and military use. 

The trench coat, also referred to as the ‘mack’, named for their inventor ‘Charles Macintosh’, were originally created using rubberised cotton. For some time, it was great at keeping rain out, but unfortunately, would keep sweat in. 

Due to the market the trench coats attracted, designers at the time were then inspired to develop better, and more breathable waterproofed materials.

Later, designers Aquascutum and Burberry, developed improved versions of the trench coat using patented and advanced water-repellant fabrics, which soon became necessities for the upper class and well-dressed man. 

When WW1 began, officers would purchase the ‘mack’ as part of their uniform as a marker of social distinction and class. Because officers were exclusively drawn from the upper social class, they had the advantage of picking their outfits themselves. Hence, why the trench coat became of popular choice amongst them.

At the time, what you wore determined what social class you were from, thus why officers and people generally of a higher social status would purchase the trench coat.

In the 1940’s, the trench coat was glamourised by Hollywood, where it’s appearance was visible in films by detectives, gangsters and femme fatales.

Over time, this staple piece became very popular amongst people of all social classes as fast fashion was slowly introduced and replicated the original designs at more affordable prices.

description of the trench coat

Trench coats were originally designed to be in the colour ‘khaki’ as they would help camouflage officers in military during WW1 from being targets to their enemies. 

Over time, neutral colours like black, white, navy and grey gained popularity for their timeless appeal. While these hues are often chosen to maintain a classic look, trench coats now come in a myriad of colours and fabrics, reflecting personal preference and style rather social class.

The classic trench coat’s design developed from the needs of officers during WWI. Due to the uncomfortable and inconvenient nature of their heavy coats, the trench coat offered a silhouette that was shorter, lighter and waterproof.

The coats feature a double-breasted style and are tailored to accentuate the waist. The skirt flares out at the belted waist, ensuring it doesn't drag in the mud while allowing for unrestricted movement and covering a significant part of the body. 

Equipped with d-rings, the belt enables the attachment of accessories like binoculars, map cases, a sword, or a pistol.

A small cape at the back facilitates water runoff, while a storm flap at the shoulder provides ventilation.

They boast large, deep pockets ideal for storing necessities, and the cuff straps can be tightened for added weather protection.

The collar, buttoned at the neck, serves both as a shield against harsh weather and during the war, as a defence against poison gas.

how the trench coat got its name

After reading about the origins of the trench coat, it starts to make more sense as to why the name ‘trench’ is used for this coat.

Since it was widely used during the war, and mainly in the trenches, the popular garment was later renamed to ‘trench coat’ rather than the original term ‘mack’.

the quality of a classic trench coat

Fast forward from WW1, trench coats today are worn by both male and female and are considered a timeless staple for elegant and classic wardrobes.

Originally, these coats were made using ‘gabardine’, a twill worsted wool, patented by Burberry to ensure maximum quality for their trench coats.

Today, a wide range of fabrics are used for these coats, ranging from polyester to cotton. The quality of these trench coats depend heavily on the material used, thus dictating the price at which they’re sold.

Since gaberdine is a much more exclusive fabric, designers and fast fashion retailers opt for more affordable options to sell a larger range of products at a cheaper price.

This is why considering the materials used to make clothing generally, determines whether it’ll last endless seasons in your wardrobe, or if it’s an item you’ll be disposing after a few uses.

women’s trench coats

Below, you can find my edit of the timeless trench coat for women, featuring an array of styles suitable for all. Note, classic staples for your wardrobe don't depend on price at all. It's about the choice of product and whether it holds value now and in the long run. This is why resorting to staples rather than trendy items hold a significant role in your wardrobe.

A Classic Crop

The classic trench coat, but make it cropped. This iconic piece is a masterclass in versatility, seamlessly transitioning from day to night, from boardroom to cocktail hour. Its cropped length adds a modern twist to the traditional trench coat, accentuating the waist and flattering the figure with a hint of allure.

Timeless Trench

A must-have for every well-dressed wardrobe, the classic trench coat is the true embodiment of enduring style and impeccable taste. From bustling city streets to chic soirées, this coat remains a symbol of timeless elegance and sartorial finesse.

Leather Luxe

Maintaining the original style of the classic trench coat but creating it in leather, imbues this luxury garment with a touch of fierceness. Perfect for the cooler seasons, these leather trench coats are not merely a material indulgence. Rather, a statement of refinement, an appreciation for the finer things in life. 

Neutral Nomad

While khaki remains the quintessential shade for trench coats, over time, they have been reimagined in an array of hues and colours. Choosing neutral tones such as olive greens, deep navies, and elegant off-whites adds a timeless and sophisticated flair to the classic trench coat.

Wrapped Up Warm

Trench coats featuring wrap tie belts offer a distinctively elegant twist on the classic silhouette. The wrap tie detail not only adds a feminine allure but also allows for versatile styling options. Whether cinched snugly at the waist for a tailored look or left loosely tied for a relaxed vibe, the wrap tie belt accentuates the figure while exuding effortless sophistication. 

If you feel motivated and would love to learn more, be sure to check out my article on

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