What's all this interest with Sherlock Holmes?

There is no doubt that the classic trench coat needs no introduction it is ubiquitous and the "must have" item for men and women in the know this fall. Why the renewed interest! We blame it on the current cultural fascination with Sherlock Holmes. From Robert Downey Jr.'s steampunk inspired style in the film franchise, to the lack of fashion in the  Fall 2012 CBS series Elementary to the fashionable and stylized British television rendition, Sherlock.  Starring Benedict Cumberbatch as Holmes and Martin Freeman as Doctor John Watson, the BBC's Sherlock has recast Holmes as a fashionable heart throb who rarely gets the girl. Each season consists of three 90 minute episodes leaving the viewers wanting more. For an interesting discussion of Holmes and Watson attire, check out Hello, tailor.

Sherlock in any era is an unusual man, so it is not surprising that he would wear an alternative trench.  Combining features from the classic trench and dress military coats, Belstaff's The Millford Coat strikes the right note of practicality, tradition and eccentricity. Cumberbatch wears it well leading those with a more ordinary physique wondering if it will work for the rest of us. Maybe not this exact coat, but the variety of trenches and military coats is vast and there is one for every body. Options include cropped, long, military inspired, single breasted, double breasted, belted, and unbelted on offer in traditional gabardine, cotton-nylon, leather, wool, and poplin, nubuck, nappa leather, suede, raglan and plaids keeps the trench up to date for contemporary wearers.  

For a functional and fashionable Fall look, wear a lighter trench layered on top of tees, shirts and knit sweaters.  The desired streamlined look inspired by Sherlock is still achievable even with the added layers.  Winter calls for a heavier trench or perhaps just heavier layered pieces such as shirts, cardigans and blazers.  Classic colors for Fall and Winter are navy, black, grey or camel.  With this in mind, a trench is sure to be a staple piece for years to come.