A Sartoriale Guide for Buying the Right Raincoat

Nothing is worse than knowing your proudly acclaimed suit just got completely and utterly soaked. You feel damp, the once optimistic mood has quickly transitioned, knowing this is how you’ll be having to present yourself at work. This is exactly why a quality made raincoat chosen (according to your lifestyle) is an actual investment, which you won’t be having second guesses about and can pay-off its price like a charm multiple times on end. For starters the obvious benefit to a raincoat is that it keeps one dry. As any clotheshorse can attest you, the right one can make you look handsome too. 

As weather all around the world becomes more and more unpredictable, practically all year round there’s bound to be that notification of a dreaded thunderstorm heading your way. After reading this article you may discover an ounce more appreciation for nature presenting itself in a darker form. Either way we felt compelled to tell you all about the various aspects of choosing the right raincoat(s) to compliment your wardrobe so you won’t be moaning about the more depressing days coming your way.

 

Full Armour:

 

The invention of the original trench coat is still claimed by Burberry and Aquascutum. Thomas Burberry invented the waterproof gabardine fabric in 1901 and presented it in the trench coat style to the UK Army Office. The coat served army officers during the WW1 and WW2. The original version is a long (below the knee), double breasted coat with raglan sleeves and removable inner lining. Functional details like epaulets and D-ring and a belt also adorned the coat, which you can still find on some models, but does not serve their original purpose for daily wear in the city.

We can all recall the moments, which made the trench coat a fashionable piece of rainwear. Think Casablanca, Inspector Clouseau or Alain Delon in the Samurai. A raincoat of all raincoats, the trench coat is a true classic today, a choice of well-dressed aficionados proclaimed by the world around. Investing in a higher end raincoat definitely makes all the difference as you still look ravishingly presentable whilst running errands, a quick meeting or coffee mornings with your colleagues and doing so with a dash of style. It looks best worn over smart outfits, however, shorter versions can look fabulous paired with your favorite jeans when the day calls for a slightly more relaxed approach.

If you prefer the idea of maximum comfort but do wear a lot of suits and sportcoats, we do recommend to get it with raglan sleeves. Over knitwear of your choice for winter feels or a plain shirt the version with set in sleeves affords you to go for a slim, modern look without the disruption of the main factor you are wanting to achieve which is maximum comfort. The original beige color is always a staple piece bringing your whole outfit to a clean finish, if you are about to step  out of your comfort zone, why not experiment with navy for an urban twist.

Effortless Elegance:

A single-breasted topcoat style rain coat is often times called a Mackintosh or just simply a Mac. Charles Mackintosh, a Scottish chemist invented a waterproof sealing technique by merging two fabrics and coating them in liquid rubber. This is how the first true raincoats came about, cut in the aforementioned top coat style. Mac coats are still ultra popular these days and you can find them in hundreds of brands selections. The shorter versions still cover your suit, but we recommend to go at least mid thigh for more elegant proportions. About knee length would be the most classic, an elegant solution with tailoring and a cool option with casual wear. 

Our selection includes some quite incredible models in this simple and practical style. Kiton and Cesare Attolini pioneers the reversible version in some rather nice blue/gray or brown/gray or beige/blue versions. Our favorite is this Attolini model, which features a striking Prince of Wales pattern on one side. If you think the „usual” is just enough, go for this Brioni. The classic length and the completely waterproof Loro Piana Storm System fabric makes this a considered luxury purchase.

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The Sporty Solution:

If you more keen on a techy look, a parka-style rain coat is a right solution. Originally a heavy coat to climb mountains, today it is a well-preferred alternative by Italian businessmen, who use scooters to reach their workspaces. Don’t worry, if you don’t own one, the big, handy pockets and the packable hood will make the style still practical for your roundabouts. We like it best in shades of blue to be as versatile as it can be.