The trench coat is a staple piece in many a wardrobe. It is so named because it was designed for military personnel during WW1. Every feature was designed for a specific reason. The epaulettes were to display the rank of the officers while a storm shield on the upper back, enabled water to run off the coat. A pleat on the back allowed for ease of movement when running or on horseback. Typically they were double-breasted and had 10 buttons, buckle wrist-straps and button-down pockets. Two British brands, Aquascutum and Burberry both claim to have invented the garment that is, more than a century later, a style classic.

My bright red trench coat is the Saskia, from another British brand, Hobbs London. The only departure from classic styling is the colour. However I know it will work just as hard for me as a neutral one. On this occasion, I wore it with cropped wide jeans (currently in the Boden clearance), and flat Mary-Janes, (by Mulberry and about 7 years old). I have plans to wear it over dresses of every length, with other jeans and with trainers, heels and whatever else I fancy.

The Perfect Pair

What is the perfect eyewear for this red trench coat? Well, it’s an eye-catching coat so glasses or sunglasses need to be an equally strong style. The Shaula by Feb31st has a cat-eye silhouette and the blue lenses make it look all the more interesting. As with all wooden eyewear by this brand, it is produced sustainably.