What all the straps, flaps and other details on your trench coat are actually there for

The trench coat is an eternal wardrobe staple, perfect for winter and between seasons.

Regardless of the form they come in, whether it's the classic longline cut or the cropped version that's everywhere in 2026, trenches are known for their effortlessly chic vibes and distinctive details, including various straps, flaps and buttons.

But many fashion lovers don't realise these iconic design features had practical use when they were first made.

A stylish history

The trench was invented in the late 19th century, with Thomas Burberry's creation of the water-repellent fabric gabardine, which is used for coats to this day.

Burberry submitted the first design of the trench to the British Army as an officer's raincoat to keep soldiers dry and warm in the trenches.

The design was a lighter, more functional alternative than the heavy woollen coats worn by the British and French officers, which were perfect for the wet and muddy conditions in the trenches.

The coats weren't standard issue for all soldiers; instead, they were an optional item to wear, which became a bit of a status symbol in the trenches.

After the First World War, veterans wore them in civilian life, with Hollywood solidifying their iconic status in Breakfast at Tiffany's with Audrey Hepburn.

From there, they became a timeless fashion staple, with all the traditional features – like epaulettes and material flaps – sticking around to pay homage to their roots.

So what are all the bells and whistles for?

Classic trench coat features and their purpose

Every detail on trench coats sold today was originally designed for a specific military purpose.

The double-breasted front added an extra layer of protection against wind and rain, while the button-closure front kept the elements out, according to Styled by Science.

The buttoned shoulder epaulettes were originally used to display the officer's ranking, and could also be used to hold accessories like gloves or whistles.

The extra panel of fabric on the right chest is not random – it's called a gun flap.

In times of war, it provided extra padding and prevented water from soaking through the coat when a soldier was firing a rifle.

The flap at the upper back of the coat is called the storm shield or back yoke.

It was designed to allow water to run off the shoulder and back without soaking through the coat, keeping the soldiers dry. It also provided an extra layer of ventilation.

The metal or plastic D-rings often found on the back of a trench coat's belt were originally used to attach equipment like map cases or swords.

A popular though unproven rumour says the rings were used to hold grenades.

The cuff straps, found at the wrists of classic trenches, could be tightened to stop water from running down soldiers' arms, especially when they were using binoculars in the rain.

Believe it or not, even the cinched waist we see on trench coats today played a part.

The belt cinch made a defined silhouette and kept the cold and rain from reaching the soldier's body.

Even features like the diagonal seam from the collar to the armpit had a purpose.

The detail, which creates raglan sleeves, was crucial for soldiers as it gave them a greater range of motion.

The hook and eye closure and strap underneath the collar, called a throat latch, allowed the wearer to button the collar up to their throat, for maximum protection against the wind, rain and even gas attacks.

Finally, the single slit at the back of the coat, called a back vent, often came with a button closure.

It allowed for greater mobility, especially for soldiers who were running or riding a horse.