Clothing company Burberry designed a lightweight raincoat in 1901 for the British War Office.

During its use in World War 1, it gained the name ‘trench coat’. It was comfortable, practical and had shoulder epaulettes to display rank. Only officers could wear them so the coat became a status symbol even with civilians.

This popularity only increased when worn by actors, such as Humphrey Bogart in ‘Casablanca’. Recently, Burberry even released a silk trench coat, which is very impractical compared to their original design. Worn by the army, adventurers and actors, the trench coat continues to appeal.