The Evolution Of The Shoulder Flap: A Trench Coat Icon

Trench coats are a timeless piece with a rich history, dating back to the 1850s. Originally worn by army officers, trench coats have now become a staple in many wardrobes. One distinctive feature of trench coats is the shoulder flaps, also known as gun flaps or storm flaps. But why do they exist?

The shoulder flaps serve multiple purposes. Firstly, they act as a protective layer, preventing water from seeping into the jacket by diverting rain away from the body. This is especially important for soldiers who had to endure harsh weather conditions without the luxury of umbrellas. Secondly, the flaps have a military background, used to secure items such as gloves and even pistols in shoulder holsters. They also displayed badges of rank and regimental insignia. Today, these flaps may be used to hold bag straps in place. So, the next time you don a trench coat, remember the practical and historical significance of those shoulder flaps!

Shoulder flaps are also known as 'gun flaps'

Shoulder flaps, also known as gun flaps, are a feature of trench coats that have been the subject of much discussion and speculation. The gun flap is an extra piece of fabric found on the front of the right shoulder and upper chest area of a trench coat. While the exact purpose of this feature has evolved over time, it is now mostly decorative, with some practical benefits for protection against the elements.

The gun flap is believed to have originated from military uniforms, specifically those of British officers during World War I. Some sources suggest that the flap was designed to protect the coat from the recoil of a rifle, as soldiers would raise their arms to shoulder a rifle, causing the coat to open up and expose the inside to the elements. The gun flap, when buttoned, provided an extra layer of protection against wind and rain. This theory is supported by the fact that early trench coats were not completely waterproof, made from water-resistant fabrics like cotton twill, leather, poplin, twill, serge, or gabardine.

Another theory suggests that the gun flap served as a cover for an opening that provided access to a pistol in a chest or shoulder holster. This theory is based on the assumption that British officers carried their pistols in shoulder holsters, and the gun flap was designed to keep the rain out while allowing easy access to the weapon. However, this assumption has been disputed, as most people, particularly right-handed individuals, would draw their pistols from a left-shoulder holster, not the right.

Today, trench coats are typically made with waterproof or water-resistant materials, and the gun flap has lost its functional purpose. It remains as a stylistic feature, reminiscent of the coat's military origins. The gun flap is now more commonly referred to as a storm flap, emphasising its role in protecting the wearer from the elements.

In addition to the gun flap, trench coats feature various other design elements that enhance their functionality and style. These include D-rings for attaching items like a canteen, epaulettes (shoulder straps) that serve as rank indicators in military uniforms, and sleeve loops that tighten at the bottom to prevent water from seeping in.

They are designed to protect the wearer from the rain

Trench coats are designed to protect the wearer from the wind and rain. The storm flap, also known as a "gun flap", is an extra piece of fabric at the front of the right shoulder and chest area. It is designed to keep water from getting into the jacket. Ideally, water should run off the back of the trench coat over the storm flap and away from the rest of the wearer's clothes. The storm flap also serves to protect the coat from early wear due to the firing of a weapon.

The storm flap is particularly important in heavy rain or when the wearer is counting on the coat to keep them dry for an extended period. Zippers are not waterproof, so the storm flap helps to secure the neck opening against leakage in driving rain. The storm flap also creates a double layer of fabric around the shoulders, where most water falls and sits. This extra layer makes it take longer for the water to soak through the fabric.

The storm flap is also functional when the trench coat is fully closed. When the wearer raises their arms, for example, to shoulder a rifle, the storm flap prevents the coat from opening up and exposing the wearer to the elements.

In addition to the storm flap, trench coats have other features designed to protect the wearer from the rain. The collar on a trench coat can usually be turned up to keep nasty weather out of the wearer's face. The sleeves of a trench coat often tighten at the bottom to prevent water from seeping in. The outer pockets are also designed to be accessible from the inside and the outside, with an outer opening that can be closed with a button to prevent rain from getting in.

They are also known as 'storm flaps'

Trench coats are a stylish outer layer for any outfit and have a rich history that dates back to the 1850s. They are also highly practical and versatile, offering protection from wind and rain.

The shoulder flaps on trench coats are also known as storm flaps. They are called this because they divert rain from areas that would otherwise get wet. The storm flap is a double layer of fabric around the shoulders, where most water falls and sits. Trench coats are typically made from water-resistant fabric, and the storm flap adds to their ability to keep the wearer dry. The storm flap is designed to prevent wind-driven rain from entering the coat through buttonholes or zippers, which are not waterproof.

The storm flap is also known as a gun flap or rifle flap. This is because it was originally designed to protect the coat from early wear due to the firing of a weapon. The flap kept the rain off the coat when a rifle was fired, and also served to cushion the shoulder from recoil. The gun flap was also thought to provide access to a pistol in a chest holster.

They are a vestige of trench coats' military background

Trench coats originated as military attire, dating back to the 1850s. The shoulder flaps, also known as epaulettes, were used to indicate rank and served a utilitarian purpose, such as securing items like gloves.

In addition to their role in signalling rank, the shoulder flaps on trench coats had a practical function. They were designed to protect the coat and its wearer from the elements, particularly wind-driven rain, by creating a double layer of fabric around the shoulders. This extra layer of fabric slowed the absorption of water, keeping the wearer dry.

The shoulder flaps also served a specific function for right-handed officers who carried pistols. The flaps provided access to chest holsters, allowing officers to quickly draw their weapons. This feature ensured that the pistol could be easily reached and protected the coat from wear and tear caused by the pistol's butt.

Today, trench coats are a classic wardrobe staple for both men and women, known for their sleek style and rich history. While the shoulder flaps may no longer serve their original military purposes, they remain as a vestige of the trench coat's military background, adding a distinctive design detail to the garment.

They can also be used to secure bag straps

Trench coats are a timeless piece of clothing that offer both style and functionality. While the trench coat is known for its many flaps and buckles, one notable feature is the shoulder flap, also known as the "gun flap" or "storm flap". But did you know that these shoulder flaps can also serve a purpose beyond their traditional use? They can be creatively used to secure bag straps, providing an additional layer of convenience and security for the wearer. Here's how:

The shoulder flaps on trench coats are typically designed with a button or fastening mechanism. This feature was originally intended to provide easy access to weapons, such as pistols or rifles, by creating an opening in the coat. However, with the evolution of fashion and technology, this access point has become less relevant for its original purpose. Instead, it presents an innovative opportunity to secure bag straps.

By unbuttoning or opening the shoulder flap, you can easily slide a bag strap underneath it. This is especially useful for bags with thin straps, such as crossbody bags, shoulder bags, or messenger bags. The flap helps to keep the strap in place, preventing it from sliding off your shoulder. It also adds an extra layer of security, as it makes it more difficult for someone to grab your bag and run. This simple yet effective hack can give you peace of mind, knowing that your bag is securely attached to your trench coat.

Additionally, the shoulder flaps of trench coats often have a buttonhole or loop that can be utilised to hook or attach bag straps. This feature was originally designed to accommodate gloves or other small items, but it works perfectly for bag straps as well. By threading the strap through the buttonhole or loop, you create a more secure connection between the bag and your trench coat. This is especially useful for bags with wider straps, such as laptop bags or duffel bags, as it helps distribute the weight more evenly and reduces strain on your shoulder.

It's important to note that not all trench coats have shoulder flaps, and some may have decorative flaps that don't serve a functional purpose. If you're specifically looking for a trench coat with functional shoulder flaps, be sure to examine the coat closely before purchasing. Check for features like buttonholes, loops, or easily accessible openings that indicate the flaps are designed for more than just style.

So, the next time you're wearing your trench coat and need a secure way to carry your bag, remember the shoulder flaps. Whether you're commuting to work, exploring a new city, or simply running errands, this clever use of the trench coat's shoulder flaps will ensure your bag stays comfortably and safely by your side.

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