In the continually shifting fashion landscape, replete with trends and micro-trends, the trench coat has maintained its significance as an emblem of a unique historical era—World War I. It was a time of profound transformation, challenging established social hierarchies, military paradigms, and even fashion norms. However, much like any enduring piece of clothing, the trench coat’s longevity is rooted in its utilitarian origins, which have provided a canvas for creative experimentation.
THE LEGACY
While the history of the trench coat did not commence on the silver screen, it did gain prominence there, as costume designer Maxima Basu, who has worked on films such as Dangal, Bajirao Mastani, and Padmaavat, among others, points out: “The trench coat’s cinematic history is deeply rooted in Western noir films, where its stylish presence added an element of mystery and charisma to the dark and enigmatic characters that often inhabited the frame.”
The trench coat’s roots extend back to the early 19th century. It’s worth noting that in 1615, the Spaniards were already using latex to create waterproof materials, and in 1496, Christopher Columbus brought back natural rubber balls from the West Indies. But it was Charles Macintosh, a Scottish chemist, who, while searching for a use for the byproducts of the coal gasification process, discovered that the distillate obtained from tar could dissolve rubber.
This story is from the October - November 2023 edition of Harper's Bazaar India.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the October - November 2023 edition of Harper's Bazaar India.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
FOR THE LOVE OF GEMS
Lucia Silvestri, the creative director of Bulgari, on offering a legacy to the new generation, and why she keeps coming back to India.
ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE RACE
Instead of yielding to the relentless demands of the industry, designer Shweta Kapur wants to take a moment to pause and reflect.
GET THAT BAG, BOY!
The man purse is here to stay, and it's time you fall in love with it.
SEWING NEW SILHOUETTES
In an exclusive conversation with Bazaar India, Korean designer Rok Hwang talks about his collaboration with H&M.
TECHNICOLOUR DREAMS
Bulgari and Isha Ambani host a private showcase of the Italian jewellery house's archival pieces.
GLAMOUR ON THE GO
With the new Gucci Valigeria collection, Creative Director Sabato De Sarno pays tribute to the label's history while heralding a new era of adventure.
FROM JAIPUR, WITH LOVE
The Pink City's newest concept store, The Palace Atelier, forms a fitting artistic alliance with Delhi-based contemporary wear label Lovebirds Studio.
WELCOME TO VUITTON-VERSE
At the Gaysorn Amarin mall in Bangkok, Louis Vuitton finds home, featuring a new exhibit, the city's most stylish café, and a restaurant by a Michelin-starred chef.
REMEMBERING ROBERTO
The maverick Italian designer's life mirrored the grandeur of his designs too.
'WE WANT TO ADD A BIT OF FSP TO EVERYONE'S LIFE'
Husband-wife duo Falguni and Shane Peacock have been creating waves on both international and domestic runways for over two decades. But they are nowhere close to done.