In the late 1890s, Victorian men were able to purchase their fall and winter coats from department store mail-order catalogues. A variety of styles and fabrics were available. Men could choose from single-breasted or double-breasted style, plain collar or velvet collar, and waterproof with an attached or detachable cape. These coats were featured in an 1898 catalog.
To the left is shown a men's waterproof coat with a detachable cape, perfect for a cold wet London evening. The cape is 24 inches deep. This style was available in black paramatta cloth, brown or grey tweed, and navy blue worsted serge. The men's Victorian coat shown below is also waterproof but has an attached cape with a velvet collar.
Men's Victorian Coat, c.1899
This waterproof coat was advertised as "the very latest London, England, Newmarket style." It has a large full body with a single-breasted fly front, and the sleeves are lined with satin.
Men's Victorian Coat, c.1899
Waterproof coat in grey or fawn cloth with a silk velvet collar. The shoulders and sleeves are lined with heavy striped satin.
1. Men's double-breasted overcoat in either black or navy blue beaver cloth.
2. Men's fall weight box-back overcoat with no vent.
3. Men's double-breasted ulster in black cloth with a 5 inch collar of the same material with silk cord edges and black satin lining.
