Duffle Coat - Mens Wool Duffle Coat
For men, women and children, the duffle coat is a winter standard. Its utilitarian style and relaxed, classic look makes it the perfect coat to wear whether you're heading off to work or playing outside.
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The duffle coat has its origins with Belgian fishermen, and was characterized by its knee-length size, sewn in hood, large patch pockets and the heavy, coarse wool fabric known as a "duffel" from which it was constructed, and from which its name derives.
It's most distinguishing feature, however, were the toggle clasps down the front of the coat, carved from bone, horn, wood or leather and fastened through rope loops. Around the time of the First World War the British Royal Navy adopted the duffle style, and by World War II it had become an official part of the British seaman's uniform.
Its popularity among the public began after the war in the late 1940s, where the jackets were picked up at inexpensive surplus stores along with many other military styles. Famed European filmmaker Jean Cocteau further popularized the style when he began wearing a duffle coat to movie premieres and upper crust social gatherings.
The style's status continued to rise into the 1970s, a time when it was especially popular with boys. Many private boys' schools went so far as to make it the mandatory outerwear garment during the cold season.
The toggle coat's fame began to wane in the ‘80s with the increase in popularity of shorter ski jackets and sportier looks, but it retains its iconic status as a fashion classic to this day.
While it was initially designed for and worn by seamen, today it's as traditional a look for women as it is for men - both genders appreciate its easy style and casual elegance. The modern duffle comes in various fabrics in addition to wool, and in a variety of colors and plaids, but its overall style remains the same. Whether it's constructed of navy wool or tan camel hair, black cashmere or yellow vinyl, it has retained its hood, patch pockets, and of course, its trademark toggles.
For everyday cold-weather wear, wool is the way to go. The standard duffle coat will definitely keep you warm, but if it's a lighter look you're after, choose a fabric like merino wool. Need a dressier duffle for a night on the town? Pick a longer length, black cashmere coat that features authentic horn toggles and satin braid loops instead of the rugged rope.
Looking for rain gear? Don't neglect the duffle style. Its hood and fasteners make sure you keep nice and dry; for extra warmth, look for raincoats with flannel lining.
Because of its uncomplicated clasps and and roomy pockets, the toggle coat is an equally fun and sensible choice for children's outerwear. Available in kid-friendly fabrics like faux shearling, corduroy and fleece, and a rainbow of bright colors, you're sure to find a duffle coat that'll get your little ones eager to go outside!
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