The Cordings Bogart Raincoat

2024 marks the 185th anniversary of Cordings of Piccadilly, and the Bogart Raincoat embodies our legacy of dressing the British gent beautifully. Meticulously crafted in London, this piece is more than just outerwear—it is a celebration of British heritage and functional design. Inspired by military tradition and tailored with the modern gentleman in mind, the Bogart raincoat serves as an excellent addition to the Cordings’ iconic outerwear range.

Cordings’ reputation as a master of waterproof clothing dates back to its founding in 1839. John Charles Cording established the business in London as a purveyor of weatherproof garments, catering to city dwellers and outdoor workers alike. Early innovations in waxed cotton and rubberised materials allowed Cordings to provide clothing that was not only stylish but also practical for the unpredictable British weather.

From outfitting fishermen and sailors to becoming the go-to clothier for country gentlemen, Cordings’ waterproofing expertise became integral to its brand. It is no surprise, then, that raincoats like the Bogart, crafted with the same commitment to protection and style, are an essential part of the collection.

The Bogart Raincoat draws inspiration from the iconic trench coat, which became a symbol of British military style during World War I. Originally an optional item of uniform, trench coats were reserved for officers in the British Army. These coats were not only functional but also packed with features designed for battlefield utility. Epaulettes allowed for rank insignia display, D-rings on the belt were used to attach ammunition pouches, and the storm flap on the shoulders funnelled rain away from the body while cushioning the impact of a rifle butt.

Other details such as the throat latch, wrist straps, and rain shield across the back added to the coat’s water resistance. These features ensured that soldiers stayed dry and protected, even in the harshest conditions. The trench coat was so effective in its design that many of its features, such as the storm flap and epaulettes, continue to be used in modern outerwear.

Beyond its military heritage, the trench coat has left an indelible mark on popular culture, largely thanks to its association with cinema legends like Humphrey Bogart. In the 1942 classic Casablanca, Bogart’s character, Rick Blaine, wore a trench coat that became an enduring symbol of cool sophistication and mystery. His private investigator role in Sam Spade (1954) further cemented the coat’s status as a garment synonymous with intrigue and classic masculinity.

Cordings’ Bogart Raincoat honours this cinematic legacy with its own interpretation of the trench coat’s timeless style. Like the coats worn by Bogart on screen, Cordings’ version is practical, durable, and effortlessly stylish, making it the ideal companion for both urban adventures and rainy country outings.

What truly sets the Bogart Raincoat apart is its meticulous construction. Made in London by specialist raincoat makers, each coat is crafted to Cordings’ exacting pattern and specifications. The coat’s 80% cotton and 20% wool composition ensures durability while offering comfort and breathability, with a weight of 11oz (340gsm) that provides ample protection against the elements.

The brushed cotton lining, unique to Cordings, adds a layer of softness and warmth, while details like the gold satin sleeve lining and Tattersall inside pattern reflect our signature attention to detail. The coat’s raglan sleeves allow for ease of movement, and the double-breasted design ensures a flattering silhouette, all while maintaining its practicality with military-inspired elements like the storm flap and throat latch.

Just as the trench coat was essential to soldiers during World War I, the Cordings Bogart Raincoat is a must-have for the modern gentleman seeking a reliable wet-weather garment. Whether you’re sheltering from a downpour or making a stylish statement, this raincoat offers the perfect blend of heritage, craftsmanship, and functionality.

Cordings’ long-standing association with waterproof outerwear, coupled with the trench coat’s historical significance, make the Bogart raincoat a quintessential addition to any wardrobe.