Nov
10
2011
By
of Valet.
Coat Week
From military-inspired details to performance-minded materials, the best coats are the timeless designs that are adaptable, functional and warm.

The Duffle Coat

Also known as a "toggle coat," this old world piece of outerwear was first made by England's Gloverall for the British military. The name is derived from Duffel, a town in Belgium where the thick, woolen material originates. And like any good classic, its straightforward styling never really went out of fashion. It's been sold to the public in the UK for decades and in the 1960s, became something of an Ivy League staple. It still looks damn good layered over a rugby shirt and some cuffed denim. This fall, the coat is seemingly everywhere—from a classic Gloverall lined with the British flag, to more modern cropped styles and plaid variations by Tommy Hilfiger and Shades of Grey.

FYI

The toggle fasteners, made of buffalo horn, wood or plastic, are known as "walrus teeth" and were created so you can button up while wearing thick gloves.
 
Options

Union Jack lined,
$602 by Gloverall

Black watch tartan,
$259 by Shades of Grey

Short toggle
coat, $263
by Scotch
& Soda

Retro plaid
check, $348
by Tommy
Hilfiger

Wool blend
duffle, $158
by Gap

 

Comment

 

Share

 
Facebook
 
Twitter

Save

 
 
 
 

Coat Week

 

Rugged and warm wool.

The top coat's cool younger brother.

A staple of American style.

A smarter way to stay warm.