From the trenches to the catwalk
Our wet weather makes us experts on raincoats. Scottish chemist Charles Macintosh created the first waterproof material in 1823 by bonding fabric with rubber. While the rubber was an effective rain guard, it smelt unpleasant when warm. Inventor Thomas Hancock helped Macintosh to rectify the problem, enabling the Scotsman to produce 'macs' with a revolutionary fabric. British brands Burberry and Aquascutum supplied World War One officers with their superior weathershielding coats, creating the term 'trench coat'. The style has since been worn by everyone from TV detectives and Hollywood film stars to 1980s yuppies and everyone else keen to look stylish while keeping dry.
GIVE IT SOME WELLY!
In addition to waterproof macs, it is no surprise that temperate Britain also gave rise to a waterproof boot. Toddlers, gardeners, farmers and festivalgoers are among those who choose wellies as practical footwear for work or play. We can thank the First Duke of Wellington for his eponymous boots. In the early 19th century, he asked his shoemaker to modify his leather boots to fit closer to the leg and without a tassel, creating the first wellington boot. The leather was later replaced with rubber, giving us the waterproof boots we wear today.
Dressing for tea
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Patchwork PROJECTS
Easy ideas to show off English paper-piecing techniques
Night train to BERLIN
Germany's exciting and varied capital is now reachable by train from the UK
French FANCY
Raymond Blanc's right-hand man, Benoit Blin's favourite bakes
Are you missing out on BENEFITS?
Here's how to find out what you are eligible for
TRAY bien
All-in-one tray bakes, packed with flavour
We took a grown-up GAP YEAR!
Who says taking time out is just for students?
'I'm obsessed with reality TV!'
THIS WEEK'S COLUMNIST Author and presenter Louise Minchin
What to eat and do for A HEALTHIER GUT
Fix those problems and boost your wellbeing
Picture palaces
In an age of cinema complexes, we celebrate five historic and beautiful picture houses that have stood the test of time
'My diet during Bake Off is cake and alcohol!'
Dame Prue Leith on the popular baking contest