Five Ways to Style an Outfit with a Trench Coat

Where Did Trench Coats Originate?

The trench coat was born in the late 19th century as functional outerwear for British officers. During World War I, it was adapted for life in the trenches — hence the name — with military details such as epaulettes, storm flaps, and D-rings. After the war, the trench coat moved from the front lines to the streets, embraced by intellectuals, actors, and style icons. By the mid-20th century, it had become a cultural symbol, representing both practicality and understated elegance. Today, it stands