In the instance of a sudden downpour - something us Europeans are all too used to - it is difficult to remain
sartorially in check while chaotically dashing for the nearest café awning. However, the development of numerous outerwear specialist brands such as Norwegian Rain, Ka/Noa, Grenfell and Private White V.C. means there is no
excuse to let your standards slip. Whether opting for a traditional cotton gabardine trench coat, a Ventile mackintosh or a waxed jeep coat, the options are
endless and will pair well with tailoring or a more casual, off-duty look.
Tom Chamberlin, Editor
Rain is completely miserable and I sympathise with the temptation to throw on anything dispensable to get soaked and
hopefully protect your main ensemble. The stylistic discernment of these garments can be anything waterproof, from
Barbours to bin bags. When planning for rain, remember one thing: buy a size up so you can get the coat over the
suit properly, without crinkling the shoulder. Raglan-sleeved coats make this especially tricky. As well as this,
shoes need to be good for getting about, while also looking smart in meetings and any social gatherings.
Charlie Thomas, Deputy
Editor
Rainwear specialists Norwegian Rain are well known for their technical approach to outerwear, regularly making use of
recycled Japanese fabrics that are entirely waterproof yet extremely breathable. This coat is no different, and will
prove especially handy when the showers hit due to its removable hood. Pair it with flattering navy chinos and
chunky brogue boots – Grenson’s Triple Welts are an excellent choice – for a tonal take on wet
weather dressing.
Jessica Beresford, Managing Editor, Online
There aren’t many things worse than being ill-prepared for the weather, and any put-together ensemble immediately
looks terrible if it's been drenched with water. Grenfell’s Helvellyn coat is crafted from water-repellant cotton
gabardine and features a shearling-lined hood – two details more than qualified to combat undesirable conditions. A
pair of dark jeans are good at concealing water marks, while a fishermen knit is quick-drying as well as being
exceptional at keeping you warm.
Benedict
Browne, Online Editorial Associate
England and rain have a symbiotic relationship, and for those of us who happen to live here, it’s a really
unfortunate one. However, one saving grace is Grenfell. Honing from east
London, the heritage brand is tied to some of our civilisation's greatest accomplishments, as it produces extremely
well-made and dependable outerwear. The Rake has collaborated with the brand on numerous occasions and one
example is the Despatch riders coat. It can take anything and everything thrown at it and is inspired by a
motorcycle coat from world war one. I’d keep the ensemble, so I’d pair with a sharp double-breasted pinstripe suit
from Ciffoneli and a simple cashmere roll neck from Rubinacci.
Megan Plenderleith,
Copywriter
As a child, I welcomed the rain with open arms as it meant rushing outside in my little red wellingtons and splashing
in every puddle in sight. As an adult however, the rain is just an inconvenience that usually results in an
unflattering, bulky and layered ensemble. Ka/Noa have however, through their aim to create
uncompromised and functional garments, designed the perfect, lightweight, slim line raincoat with a multi-functional
collar and soft handle. To avoid aforementioned bulkiness and to mitigate the darkness synonymous with the rain,
wear with the bright yellow Edward Sexton roll neck and conclude with a robust pair of Bodileys rough-out suede
Chelsea boots.
Natasha Drax, Online Editorial
Assistant
Although getting caught in a torrential downpour has become interlinked with a climactic moment of romance by
Hollywood’s finest, the reality is far less alluring. And so, for the humble, unspontaneous punter like myself, be
prepared for all weather with a light yet waterproof coat such as Private White V.C.’s olive mac. Crafted from tightly-woven Ventile cotton
and featuring four pockets to stash your essentials, it is a functional piece finished with a rear split for agility
when running for cover. To ensure those perfectly placed locks don’t get sodden wear a tweed cap and replace your
briefcase with a rucksack to free up your hands for that trusty umbrella.
