There are few fashion pieces as effortlessly cool as a trench coat. You throw one on, and suddenly you’re walking like you’re in a slow-motion film scene, wind blowing, heels clicking, mysterious music playing in the background.
But ever wondered, when were trench coats invented? Because this coat didn’t just show up on TikTok one day. It’s been around.
And babe, its history? Kinda juicy.
The Origin Story of the Trench Coat
Okay, so trench coats weren’t made for fashion runways at first. They were literally designed for war. Yep, soldiers. Muddy trenches, unpredictable weather, and soldiers needing something lighter than those thick wool coats they used to wear. Enter the trench coat.
Now, the two big names that always pop up when we ask “when were trench coats invented?” are Thomas Burberry (yes, that Burberry) and Aquascutum. These brands both claimed to have made the first one. Who’s telling the truth? It’s a bit messy, but both were definitely in the mix during the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Burberry had already invented gabardine fabric by the 1870s. It was water-resistant, breathable, and way less bulky than heavy wool. Fast-forward to World War I and this fabric became the star of the show.
The Function Behind the Fashion
Back to business. During the war, trench coats weren’t about style. They were about function. Storm flaps, deep pockets, and belts made them practical. Officers needed something durable and weatherproof and trench coats delivered.
Even after the war ended, soldiers brought their trench coats home and kept wearing them. Soon enough, civilians noticed. The silhouette was strong, flattering, and way cooler than the boxy stuff people were used to.
So really, the trench coat walked straight out of a battlefield and onto the high street.
Trench Coats & Hollywood Glamour
If you ask most people when trench coats became fashionable, they’ll probably say Hollywood. And they’re not wrong.
Ever seen those old films where someone dramatic is walking away in the rain with a cigarette and a broken heart? Yeah. That’s when the trench coat became iconic.
Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Humphrey Bogart in Casablanca. These weren’t just style moments. They were fashion history. Trench coats became the look for mystery, elegance, and let’s be honest—sass.
How the Trench Coat Turned Runway Royalty
Fashion brands weren’t slow to catch on. Once the war was over, Burberry kept trench coats in their lineup, making them sleeker and more tailored.
Then came the designers who flipped the script. Think leather trenches, sleeveless versions, bright colours, cropped fits. Suddenly, trench coats weren’t just for foggy weather. They were for every day, any season.
And it wasn’t just designer labels. High street stores joined the fun too. From Zara to ASOS, everyone wanted a piece of that classic cut.
Some trends just die out. But trench coats? They’re like Beyoncé. Timeless.
Why? Because they flatter every body type. They cinch the waist, skim over the hips, and make you look polished even when you’ve got gym hair and slept through your alarm. Whether you’re pairing it with leggings and sneakers or heels and a silk dress, it just works.
Also, they come in so many lengths and shades. Classic camel? Always yes. Jet black? Edgy and sleek. Pastels or bold prints? If you’re feeling fancy, go for it.
So, when were trench coats invented exactly? Late 1800s, thanks to the genius of people like Burberry and Aquascutum. But they didn’t just stay in the trenches. They made their way through history, through war and film and fashion shows, and landed right in our wardrobes.
From soldiers to style icons, that’s the trench coat’s journey. Impressive, right?
How to Style a Trench Coat
Want a quick style cheat sheet? Here’s how to rock your trench like you know what you’re doing:
Pair it with a hoodie and jeans for street-style edge.
Throw it over a bodycon dress with strappy heels for date night drama.
Add wide-leg trousers and loafers for a chic office vibe.
Go full detective with all-black everything and a bold red lip.
Feeling playful? Belt your trench with a corset on top, runway energy, babe.
Trench Coats Are Girl Math
Think about it. One trench coat = endless outfits. It pulls everything together. It hides the bad outfit days. It even works as a last-minute rain protector when your weather app lies again.
Plus, they never really go out of style. That means you can justify buying one every few years in a different colour, length, or fabric. Girl math, no?
Choosing the Right Trench Coat
Before you hit “add to cart,” remember, fit is key.
Look for a belt that hits at your natural waist. Make sure the shoulders aren’t too tight if you plan on layering. And please check the back for movement, nothing worse than feeling like a statue when you’re trying to hail a cab.
Also, if you’re petite, try a cropped trench or something that stops mid-thigh. If you’re tall, you can pull off the full dramatic length. Own it.
Still Wondering If You Need One?
Girl, yes.
Especially if you live somewhere with unpredictable weather (hi, UK readers). Or if you just want that one item in your wardrobe that never lets you down. The trench coat is that friend who shows up on time, looks amazing, and helps you fake confidence when you’re running on caffeine and vibes.
Even when the rest of your wardrobe feels chaotic, your trench coat? She’s always ready.
Conclusion
So if you’ve ever asked yourself, when were trench coats invented, now you know the whole backstory.
From mud-stained war trenches to glossy city streets, the journey is wild. And yet, here we are, still obsessed.
Share this with your friends to enlighten them as well.
