A trench coat or trenchcoat is a raincoat made of waterproof heavy-duty cotton gabardine drill or poplin, or leather. It generally has a removable insulated lining, raglan sleeves, and the classic versions come in various lengths ranging from mid-calf to above the knee. It was originally a military item of clothing and shows this influence in its styling.
This garment is traditionally double-breasted with 10 front buttons, has wide lapels, a storm flap and pockets that button-close. The coat is belted at the waist with a self-belt, as well as having straps around the wrists that also buckle up. The coat also often has shoulder straps that button-close; those were a functional feature in a military context. The classic color of a trench coat is khaki.
Famous quotes containing the words trench and/or coat:
“Lord, what a change within us one short hour
Spent in Thy presence will avail to make!”
—Richard Chenevix Trench (1807–1886)
“While yet it is cold January, and snow and ice are thick and solid, the prudent landlord comes from the village to get ice to cool his summer drink; impressively, even pathetically, wise, to foresee the heat and thirst of July now in January,—wearing a thick coat and mittens! when so many things are not provided for. It may be that he lays up no treasures in this world which will cool his summer drink in the next.”
—Henry David Thoreau (1817–1862)