The History of the Overcoat: Where Did Our Outerwear Come From?

Have you ever wondered where our modern day overcoat comes from?

man in grey bespke coat

The Inception

Overcoats were created during the 18th century when British Dandy Beau Brummell brought the style of the British Court into mainstream use. The overcoat was perfect when worn over the tight fitting attire which was rather thin. Constructed of a heavyweight wool, warm overcoats became a staple during the regency period.

Resurgence

With its invention in the early regency period, overcoats fell into disuse in the decades to follow. It wasn’t until World War I with the use of the trench coat that the full length overcoat was popular again. By the 1980s, the overcoat was popularized and worn by everyone who was anyone. In the age of dressing to look powerful, the overcoat with its thick padding and wide shoulders became a wardrobe necessity.

Green, Red and Grey Bespoke Coats

Today

Today, the overcoat has regained popularity with more of a resemblance to its 18th century origins where it was a fitted, tailored piece. Overcoats today keep its wearers warm while providing a classic silhouette. With the overcoat being the only thing people see when you are out during the cooler months, investing in a well fit piece can ensure you make a good impression wherever you go.

Book a Complimentary Phone Consultation

Elevate your wardrobe without leaving your home or office. We bring luxury fabrics and expert tailoring directly to your door across the Lower Mainland.

Related Posts

Stylish model showcasing charcoal gray suit in urban setting, exuding confidence and sophistication

Why Some Expensive Suits Still Look Cheap

Walk through any airport, hotel lobby, or wedding venue and you’ll notice something interesting. The best-dressed person in the room isn’t always wearing the most

A tailor's workbench viewed from above, neatly organized with sharp scissors, thread spools, pins, measuring tape, and dark suit fabric.

Basted Fitting vs Muslin Fitting

Two Very Different Steps in Tailoring In tailoring, terminology matters. While the terms basted fitting and muslin fitting are sometimes used interchangeably, they are not

A bespoke tailor using a measuring tape to adjust the button stance and waist fit on a men's custom navy suit jacket during a precision fitting session.

Gorge Height and Button Stance

The Small Details That Quietly Change Everything. When people talk about suit fit, the conversation usually stops at shoulders, chest, or sleeve length. Important, yes,