Mar 21, 2025
Design is not just about what looks good; it’s about what works, what endures, and what serves a true purpose. The most impactful designs are born from necessity, and it’s through their functionality that they evolve into something timeless. Burberry iconic trench coat is the perfect example of this principle — a design that began with a clear function and, over time, transformed into a symbol of elegance and longevity. Recently, Burberry celebrated the 100th anniversary of this iconic design, proving that functionality and style can stand the test of time. Its legacy is a testament to how functional design can seamlessly blend practicality with beauty.
A Coat Born of Purpose
The trench coat wasn’t born on fashion runways. It was crafted for war. In the early 1900s, Thomas Burberry, a visionary who pioneered functional textiles, introduced gabardine — a tightly woven, waterproof fabric that offered protection against the elements while allowing breathability. Commissioned by the British War Office during World War I, the coat was designed to meet the practical needs of soldiers in the trenches — hence the name.
Epaulettes to display rank, D-rings to carry equipment, storm flaps to keep rainwater away, and a belted waist to provide warmth and protection — every element of the trench coat served a distinct purpose. The form was a direct response to the grueling environment of war, where functionality was not a choice but a necessity.
From Battlefield to Boardroom
As the years passed, the trench coat transcended its military roots, seamlessly integrating into civilian wardrobes. The utilitarian design, refined by subtle alterations over the decades, became synonymous with elegance and sophistication. Worn by movie icons like Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s and Humphrey Bogart in Casablanca, the trench coat established itself as a symbol of understated luxury and timeless appeal.
Yet, despite its evolution into a fashion staple, the core design has remained remarkably true to its original intent. This enduring relevance highlights a compelling truth — functional fashion is the longest-served trend in history.
When Function Drives Longevity
In an era where trends come and go with fleeting urgency, the trench coat has withstood the test of time because it is rooted in function. When garments address real human needs — protection, mobility, and adaptability — they transcend mere aesthetics. Fashion that follows function not only endures but also evolves gracefully, adapting to new contexts without losing its essence.
From technical fabrics in activewear to modular clothing designed for adaptability, the fashion industry continues to draw inspiration from the ethos of form following function. Yet, this leaves me pondering a thought — In a world increasingly driven by aesthetics and fleeting trends, is the future of fashion destined to return to its functional roots?
Perhaps, as we look ahead, the most impactful designs will once again be those that seamlessly blend utility with beauty.
