Oh, the joys of winter weather. Rain, snow, sludge, cold, ice, hail and wind. And occasionally, days of glorious sunshine to remind us that yes, spring will eventually get here. As a girl who loves abundant sunny days, even Southern California winter weather can be cold and difficult to deal with. So how do I add spice to my chilly days when Mr. Sunshine is taking a break? By enjoying the winter fashion, since makeup and clothing for me is a fun passion!
We often bring out our coats and sweaters at this time of year, in various styles and colors. Why not step out in style wearing a trendy trench coat, a coat that can not only keep you warm and also act as a raincoat, but shouts chic and cool? Trench coats are made of waterproof heavy-duty cotton gabardine drill, leather or poplin. Trench coats generally have a removable insulated lining, raglan sleeves and the classic versions come in various lengths, ranging from just above the ankles to the knees.
Traditionally trench coats are double-breasted with 10 front buttons, have wide lapels, storm flaps and pockets that button closed. The coat is belted at the waist, as well as having straps around the wrists that buckle (to keep water from running down the forearm in the rain). True trench coats also have shoulder straps that button closed, which were a functional feature in military uniforms. The traditional color of the trench coat is khaki, although newer versions can now be found in all colors.
Trench Coat Fun Fact: The trench coat was developed as an alternative to the heavy serge greatcoats worn by British and French soldiers during World War I. Invention of the trench coat belongs to two British luxury clothing manufacturers, Burberry and Aquascutum. Aquascutum claims starting the trendy trench coat in the 1850s. Thomas Burberry invented gabardine fabric in 1879 and submitted a design to the United Kingdom War Office in 1901 to have the sturdy, practical coat act as the Army officers’ raincoat.
Wade through the trenches of inclement weather in a trendy trench coat!
Trench coats have remained fashionable since their inception, long after the end of World War I, and are still popular jackets and/or raincoats today. Trench coats look business like, yet savvy. They keep you warm and dry with a look of sheer cool. For those of you that adore trench coats but find them to look too military, if you tie the belt in front of the jacket, as opposed to using the buckle, you will create a more casual look than strict military. Since trench coats tend to be long, often going past the knee, it works to wear lighter fabric trench coats as dresses. Button up, slip on some leather or patent leather high heels and turn your coat into a one piece dress! Always look your best!
Just remember you can’t take your coat off if you get too warm. Unless you want to start a new fashion trend of your own! I guarantee you’ll stop traffic in a heartbeat!
The trench coat was originally sized to wear over clothing, to offer water protection when the temperature was cold enough to require a heavier coat than a windbreaker or rubber raincoat. This is why trench coats often fit as a larger size then a normal jacket. In recent years many manufacturers have resized the fit and cut of trench coats to conform more closely to the body.
As always, to fit into fashion, there are versions of the terrific trench coat that have been modified where the hem stops at mid-thigh level, much like the miniskirt. The classic trench coat looks stunning and stylish no matter the length, showing off a woman’s femininity, power and strength!
Floor length, mid calf, to the knee or above, bundle up in the eye catching, always gorgeous trench coat as the jacket that’s a cut above.
I think I’ll buy myself a truly adorable trench coat this winter season. After all, the coat is so durable and fantastic that I really don’t need a reason!
Nancy Mangano is an American beauty/fashion/style influencer, fashion journalist, screenwriter and author of the Natalie North murder mystery book series. Visit Nancy on her global online fashion/style/beauty magazine Strutting in Style! at https://nancymariemangano.com, her Facebook page Nancy Mangano at  https://www.facebook.com/nancymmangano/ Twitter @https://twitter.com/nancymangano and her author website http://www.nancymangano.com
