Burberry Trench Coat is iconic but also versatile enough to be part of a mind-blowing design evolution. We trace its beginnings in the invention of a heavy-duty weather-proof fabric called gabardine in 1879, and the creation of the Tielocken coat in 1901, both by Thomas Burberry. The original trench coat from the WWI British Army trenches started as military outerwear but developed into a mix of wind-breaker and raincoat for men and women of all generations and profiles.
A Functional Luxury Basic
Symbolizing British style but recognized across the globe, it displays many practical details patented in 1912 but holding timeless allure and usability. The woven fabric is durable, breathable, lightweight, waterproof – ideal for transitional weather and layering. The signature check lining is removable. Storm flaps keep the wearer dry. A back pleat eases your moves when in action. Epaulettes which were signifying the officer’s rank are today a design element accentuating the shoulders. Buckled self-belts define the wrists and waistline. The classic version is a 10-button, double-breasted coat featuring raglan sleeves, wide lapels, D-rings, and buttoned pockets.
SHOP THE ICON
Burberry Trench: Heritage and Origins
It’s an investment piece because of its century-plus consistency in style and manufacturing. Each Burberry trench coat takes over hundred highly-skilled processes and three weeks to make. Made at the Burberry mills in Castleford, North England since the 20s, it adapts maintaining its original shape and function. In 1990 Roberto Menichetti redesigned the check print of the lining. In the 00s, current Creative Director Christopher Bailey reimagined it through innovation in design and materials.
Icons and Their Style
Hollywood turned it from historic to famous. Humphrey Bogart at the final scene of ‘Casablanca’ and Peter Sellers' Inspector Clouseau made it synonymous to eternal class. Audrey Hepburn in ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’ and Meryl Streep in ‘Kramer Vs. Kramer’ made it a women’s wardrobe essential. Prince Charles and Diana gave it the royal stamp. British ‘it girls’ Alexa Chung, Poppy Delevingne, and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley infuse it with a cool spin, styling it with leather leggings, skinny jeans, girly dresses, and lady-chic fitted ensembles. Every single celebrity from Gwyneth Paltrow and Victoria Beckham to Karlie Kloss has been spotted wearing one.
SHOP THE ICON
Trench Coat Options
Burberry trench coats are divided into Heritage and Seasonal ones. Heritage include the super slim Chelsea getting gradually roomier through the Sandringham, Kensington, and Westminster styles. Seasonal make for similar silhouettes crafted from other-than-gabardine materials such as lambskin, lacer-cut and printed lace, satin, and tech fabrics in newly-inspired shades. Add your embroidered initials too!