Waterproof Trench Womens – Why This Season’s Essential Never Goes Out Of Fashion

The title of this article is a little deceptive as many of today’s women’s waterproof trench coats aren’t actually made from a waterproof fabric, or use any modern waterproofing manufacturing techniques which is one of the tell-tale signs of its move from function to fashion. Over the years this iconic, timeless style has been linked inextricably with war, on screen sirens, undercover detectives and catwalk shows and not necessarily in that order! The information below will give a small snapshot into the origins of this outerwear icon, how to wear it and just a few of the reasons why we think this is the hardest working piece in any woman’s wardrobe

Origins of the Trench 

The trench coat, or Mac as its sometimes called, has a fascinating history which tells its story through the lens of British design and practicality. What is now an iconic shape seen on every high street in the world of fashion, was originally designed to serve one of the most important functional purposes of any garment, either before or since. 

Tracing back to the 19^th century the cut of the Trench coat was created to do, as its name sake, serve the soldiers who were spending time in the trenches in the 1^st world war. Although Aquascutum also lay claim to sketching one of the first of these designs, Thomas Burberry, the founder of the luxury British brand Burberry was certainly the creator of the gabardine fabric used to make these first trenches, and evidence has shown the first drawings of this style were submitted to the war office by Burberry himself. This heavy gabardine offered warmth and water resistance whilst also allowing the soldiers to breath. The cut with its back-vent system offered movement without restriction, and pockets for military equipment and epaulettes to house soldier’s identity created the military look that we are now so familiar when we see images of war. 

Reaching Ultra Iconic status

Investing in this iconic style, you’re in good company. From the French chic of Bridgette Bardot who was often seen in both trench coats and Mackintosh coats, on and off the camera, to Marilyn Monroe, Sophia Loren, Elizabeth Taylor, and of course Breakfast at Tiffany’s star, Audrey Hepburn. In more recent times Kate moss, Beyoncé, Gigi Hadid and Olivia Palermo are amongst regular wearers. The reason this piece has stood the test of time and made its way to ultra-iconic status is not only it’s star studied glitzy connection from the 50’s and 60’s, but because it truly has an elegant aesthetic and a timeless and season-less appeal. Cut long enough to cover skirts, this coat can seriously smarten any outfit with its revere collar and tie waist and for this reason it’s often used for business or office wear. However, more recent re-inventions have seen the cut being voluminous and the look with baggy jeans and trainers offering a put together finish to a much edgier look.

Performance And Versatility 

Adding a trench coat to a relaxed summer dress or shorts gives the perfect mix of casual style and elegance. It also gives you a little warmth as you sit on the terrace with a cocktail before being ushered into your favourite restaurant. From weddings, to festivals, to commuting to work we really can’t think of a place this piece doesn’t travel.

However, as we said at the start of this article, the waterproof statement can sometimes be confusing. Made from gabardine in the day the waterproofing this offered was largely through weight and oil deposits. Today, pieces made from wool or cotton are not a good protection from the rain but are sometimes finished with a water-resistant coating which helps if caught out in a brief shower. A women’s waterproof trench coat with a hood is one obvious solution to the weather protection. “Protected Species” is a brand who create beautifully aesthetic Trench coats using high performance modern waterproof fabrics and technology. Their women’s black waterproof trench with hood offers the ultimate classic, sophisticated look with an all-weather performance. 

Endless Outfit Ideas To Wear With Your Trench

We love the look of a graphic tee, distressed wide leg jeans, and combat boots layered with the smartness of a black women’s trench coat.  Or, more casually, choose a Trench coat in shades of stone, olive or white to get a laid back refined summer appeal.  

Keeping it casual yet stylish try a striped t-shirt, high-waisted denim shorts, and espadrille sandals under your trench coat for a relaxed brunch outfit. Moving into evening wear a

sophisticated jumpsuit or tailored trousers paired with a silk blouse and heels gives an extremely sophisticated look without a lot of effort.

Finally, on days off we would opt for a cosy oversized sweater, leggings, and trainers underneath for a comfortable and practical outfit.

Trench Coat Trends For 2024 

SS2024 trends have shown that the Trench coat is still very much in its place as the leader of style and contemporary wear. Shapes on the catwalks by Maxmara, Moschino, Christian Dior were still oversized and a mix of fabrications has taken this classic cut and added an edge. True Knitwear sleeves seen on Maxmara’s latest invention combine with a traditional wool bodice, and quilted detailing on fashion streetwear has added the element of warmth to this fuller bodied shape. Colours are seen to be muted in shades of camel, olive and dark browns cementing this outerwear legend as the ultimate modern classic.

Our Round-Up 

In a world where trends come and go, the trench coat isn’t going anywhere fast. Its rich history, enduring appeal, and versatile styling options make it a wardrobe must for pretty much every season and occasion. With the use of advancements in fabric technologies, whether you’re braving the elements on a rainy day or making a fashion statement on the streets of any city, embrace the elegance of the trench coat and make it your own. After all, some things never need replacing.