COAT OF A R MS

Created for the practical purpose of keeping British soldiers warm, dry yet well-ventilated in all weather conditions, the trench coat was designed by Aquascutum and Burberry, but soon found popularity among civilians for its functionality and flattering cut. Romanticised in Hollywood films, the trench coat was the choice of outerwear for dashing detectives and enigmatic leading ladies—think Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman in Casablanca, and Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at T iffany’s. Its timeless silhouette is always ripe for reinterpretation, and several designers have put their own spin on the iconic coat this season. Proenza Schouler took the uncomplicated route, stripping away superfluous decorative elements to present a minimalist canvas for personal touches. Coperni exposed the waist with bold cut-outs. Burberry added volume and softness with pleats, teaming it with an asymmetrical red skirt for dramatic effect. Coach kept the classic proportions but splashed it with colourful graffiti. Sacai’s deconstructed number, Innovative yet understated, made one take a double look—is it a single coat or two; is it even a trench coat? Traditional, playful or subversive, the variations on the theme offers plenty of chic choices.