StyleWake: Entrenched

Every year, around this time, as I walk to class admiring our beautiful campus draped in fall leaves, I usually have one thought on my mind, “Holy crap it’s cold.” Originally from Austin, Texas, I attempt each year to adapt my wardrobe to survive the cold, rainy North Carolina winter, and each year, I pretty much fail miserably. I know what you’re thinking, 1) Yes, I am a wimp, and 2) No, I cannot bring myself to purchase the ever so practical/popular North Face rain jacket. Luckily, there is a light at the end of the freezing, rainy tunnel and this, my friends, comes in the form of the trench coat. The history of the trench coat dates back World War I and II and was used by the armies in (you guessed it) the trenches.  In 1879 Thomas Burberry created a water-resistant fabric called gabardine, and orders from the British army came pouring in. After returning from war, the soldiers continued to wear their coats, and the trench coat went on to become a wardrobe classic. The design stayed the same for the next 110 years until 1990 when Burberry used “thirties” inspiration to create a new version of a classic piece. So, I think its safe to say that if the trench coat could protect the army during war time, carry them into civilian life, and maintain a similar design for 110 years, it can get me through my last damp, cold winter in North Carolina. Now, if you are like me and don’t have around a grand to spend on the real thing, you are in luck. The overt popularity of the trench among runway designers in recent years had led many “fast fashion” brands to create their own, more economical versions. Below are some great trench coats options spanning a variety of price ranges. 

1. FOREVER 21 Belted Trench Coat $22.50
2. FOREVER 21 Belted Trench Coat $37.80
3. NASTY GAL Twisted Trench Coat $118.00
4. BB Dakota Ava Faux-Fur Trench Coat $120.00

And if I there is any doubt left as to the enormous impact the trench has had on fashion culture, Burberry along with photographer Scott Schuman of The Sartorialist recently created a blog exclusively displaying people wearing their Burberry trench coats. Aptly named Art of the Trench sorting features such as “trench color”, and even “weather” (wet, cloudy, bright), provide endless contemporary style inspiration of the classic coat.