Wrap Up in Style: The Timeless Duffle Coat

From Medieval Belgium to Modern Chic: Discover how this classic coat can be your stylish shield against chilly days and chaotic times.

Good day, Monday. I know I always publish on Tuesdays but I can’t this week because I will most likely be having a morphine drip installed in my arm until the votes are counted. Good for you if you are “nauseously optimistic,” as the pundits say.

Because I am just nauseous. Period.

So with that, I came across this duffle coat on (what else) J.Crew, and it got me thinking about my childhood Gloverall duffle/toggle coat, which my parents purchased on vacation in Bermuda. It was a classic wool deep navy version with a black watch plaid interior, and I was obsessed with it. Lest you think this is too much of a mannish coat, note how Alexa Chung is rocking it over a pretty dress and mocs. So chic.

The duffle coat, a classic British garment, traces back to the Middle Ages in Duffel, Belgium, where its signature durable, water-resistant cloth originated. Initially worn by European peasants, the coat gained prominence when the British Navy adopted it in the late 19th century for its practical toggle fastenings and warm, oversized fit, ideal for harsh sea conditions. Its military appeal grew during both World Wars, symbolized by Field Marshal Montgomery, who became so associated with the coat that it earned the nickname "Monty." Post-war, surplus military duffle coats surged in popularity among civilians, and Gloverall modernized the design, introducing a lighter, more tailored version in the 1950s. It soon became a fashion icon and celebrity like David Bowie and featured in cultural symbols such as Paddington Bear. Today, the duffle coat remains timeless, embodying resilience and understated style.

Cut to now: when dressing like Paddington, it may not be what you want, but is it what you need? I mean.

Who doesn’t need a comforting yet resilient coat right now? Here are a few to consider: they are timeless, preppy, and perfect.

Here’s a link to the J.Crew version.

This one from JW Anderson for Uniqlo is also an affordable option with a sportier length.

If you want something very authentic and iconic, UK classic brand Gloverall is a safe bet. I love the silhouette of this swing coat, and this one in bright yellow is chirpy for chilly days. PS: A duffel coat can come in shorter and longer versions. I tend to like the longer version because New York in winter. But then again, we may never have a real winter again, so…

But I digress.

A terrific sherpa version for cocoon-like comfort. This one is gorgeous, too.

I am swooning for this Mayflower-appropriate number. It’s just so preppy and good. Incidentally, this site is like preppy porn. Don’t peruse unless you were in Kappa Kappa Gamma.

This Free People duffel coat gives me homecoming weekend vibes. It’s perfect for Thanksgiving and the transition into winter.

This is cute, though probably tough to wear for those who don’t boast a Viking genealogy.

Another more classic take from Brooks Brothers—a home run.

This one is more oversized and masculine, and I adore it because it’s roomy enough for an oversized sweater or blazer underneath.

And here’s a feminine version that feels flirtier in such a pretty color.

This Amazon version is so affordable. I love the cream color and the shape.

Although this camel one from Victoria Beckham is not affordable, the color is so good, and it would look amazing with a black wool turtleneck and jeans. Plus, I love the hood.

But for me, the winner-winner chicken dinner is this gorgeous and updated take from Max Mara. It’s perfection. I’ve been loving so much from MM lately. It goes with my subdued mood and need to keep things simple but elevated.

On that note, I’m grinning and bearing my way through this week and hoping for an excellent outcome. I know you are most likely doing the same, so toggle accordingly and batten down the hatches or something.

Cheers to saving democracy. Down the hatch.