The London Lounge

Hi,

I am in the market for a good trench coat and am currently considering 2 model options, the Aquascutum Fairmount and Kingsgate (can be seen here and here). (I would consider others; those simply caught my eyes and I like the heritage aspect.) I'm also attracted to both the navy blue and the standard beige colors.

The first one is an "updated" version, 3/4 length, single-breasted, no flap, etc. The Kingsgate is very traditional, full length, DB, shoulder flap, etc. In my mind, the benefits of the heritage / authenticity of the latter are fairly balanced with the convenience aspect of the former.

What I wonder is how I should think about what best fits my body type, both for shape and color. I'm 37, 5'10", about 10-20 Lbs too many (but no huge belly), medium frame, light brown hair, green eyes, medium fair complection. I've tried both models on and they look fine to me, but I don't have a good eye for fit yet.

I'm interested in any and all inputs. Thanks!

JD

It sounds like you could wear either type, as far as proportions go. I might weight more highly how much walking you will need to do when wearing this trench (assuming you want it mostly for rainwear) and whether you'll be doing much driving. The short one will leave you with a considerable length of wet trouser and soaked shoes, even with a good umbrella, if you must walk more than a short distance in a blowing rain. If you're wearing it over jeans, you may not care. Over business dress, you might. The longer version with a fuller skirt will protect better.

On the other hand, gathering up a long full skirt that's streaming water to slide into or out of a driver's seat is pretty miserable, too. So if, on balance, you expect to drive more and walk less, you might consider the shorter coat (assuming you like the look). If more walking and less driving is in store, consider the longer one.

Good point. I certainly don't do much driving at all here in Paris...

Have you considered Burberry?

I know the outfit has gotten a little fashiony of late, but the classic Burberry trench--in tan-- is still hard to beat. I believe--and other loungers may confirm--that the Burberry's the original trench.

I think it is good to stick with the classics--that's the best insurance against buying something you grow to hate.

I think you're right - Burberry's was the initiator of the trench during WW1, and Aquascutum was a (the?) supplier durring WW2.

I was told that the Burberry's are now made in China, whereas the Aquascutums are made in England. I also worry that the fashion statement B has become would mean paying more for the brand than for quality...

You might consider the Barbour Thompson Trench - http://www.barbour.com/index.cfm?fuseac ... &RangeID=1 - though it doesn't look to be very long over the legs.

What purpose have you in mind? Is it just to have a light weight coat to toss on or are you wanting real rain protection? Frankly, I'm more inclind to the traditional trench coat look and length.