There are few garments more useful in a gentleman's wardrobe than a well-made raincoat.
In a country where the weather can change several times in a single afternoon, it is something we reach for regularly, yet perhaps give surprisingly little thought to.
Traditionally regarded as a purely practical garment, the raincoat has evolved into something rather more interesting. With the right cloth, cut and detailing, it can be every bit as elegant as a beautifully tailored overcoat, while offering the protection needed for everyday life.
A coat for every occasion
One of the pleasures of having a raincoat made is the freedom to choose a style that suits both your wardrobe and the way you live.
The classic single-breasted raincoat remains a firm favourite. Clean, understated and versatile, it can be worn comfortably over a business suit without looking overly formal, yet works equally well with knitwear and more relaxed trousers at the weekend.
For those who prefer something with a little more character, a belted raincoat offers a flattering silhouette and a nod to traditional British outerwear. The belt adds shape and definition, while the coat retains an easy elegance.
A shorter car coat is another excellent option, particularly for those who spend much of their day travelling or moving around the city. It is practical, comfortable and wonderfully adaptable.
And for those who favour a more contemporary approach, a hooded raincoat can be made with the same attention to fit and detail as any other tailored garment, combining functionality with a smart, understated appearance.
The importance of cloth
Of course, the success of any raincoat begins with the fabric.
Modern cloth technology has given us some remarkable options, allowing us to combine the natural beauty and handle of fine fabrics with excellent protection against the elements.
One particularly interesting example is Loro Piana's Rain System®, a specialist treatment designed to help fabrics repel water while preserving their softness, breathability and natural appearance.
What makes these cloths especially appealing is that they do not necessarily look or feel like conventional waterproof fabrics. They retain the character and refinement of fine tailoring cloth, making them particularly attractive for a bespoke raincoat.
The choice of colours is equally appealing. Classic navy, charcoal and stone will always have their place, but softer shades of taupe, olive and warm beige offer something a little different, without sacrificing versatility.
A raincoat in one of these colours can become a particularly useful addition to a wardrobe, complementing both formal and casual clothing.
The beauty of having it made
As with any bespoke garment, the real pleasure lies in the details.
The length, collar, pockets, fastening and overall silhouette can all be considered carefully. Some clients prefer a coat with sufficient room to wear comfortably over a suit, while others want something lighter and more relaxed for everyday use.
There is also the opportunity to introduce small personal touches, perhaps an interesting lining, a particular style of pocket or a collar designed to be worn up against the wind.
These details may seem modest individually, but together they make the difference between a raincoat that simply serves a purpose and one that becomes a pleasure to wear.
Practicality without compromise
A good raincoat should never feel like an afterthought. It should work naturally with the rest of your wardrobe, be comfortable to wear and, above all, make you feel well dressed, even when the weather is doing its worst.
With the range of beautiful performance cloths now available, there is no reason to compromise on either practicality or elegance.
After all, some of the most useful garments in our wardrobes are also the ones we come to appreciate the most.
