Paris in Petrichor - The Pierre Raincoat
It seems the only silver lining of a damp, rain-filled day, is the excuse to embrace classic rainwear—a conduit for lightness within grey days. Not an unfamiliar scene for the streets of Paris, frequent cloudbursts call for a pragmatic approach to style, an obstacle we sought to innovatively overcome with our latest design.
Historically, our designer has recognised that traditional trench coats were either too hot or cold through most seasons, offering an imbalance in warmth and comfort. Through the Pierre raincoat, we offer a sportier, sophisticated alternative, complete with a detachable lining in the form of the Kaizen vest, extending its use beyond transitional periods. From its inception, this coat was designed alongside the Kaizen vest, and vice versa—one, we felt, could not exist without the other.
Sentimentally this raincoat is an homage to our designer’s grandfather Pierre Breton des Loys. A journalist for the BBC during the Second World War, our English approach to tailoring with this piece reflects his fine taste for clothing, the result of exposure to refined fitting. The creation of the garment witnesses our founder exploring a striking memory of his grandfather in a short, sporty Lanvin raincoat, unusual for a senior figure and therefore an utterly refreshing contrast.
It's with this persona in mind that we conceptualised the Pierre coat. A considered reimagining of traditional outwear, adapting to a need for versatility throughout seasons and combating an evermore unpredictable climate. We sought to make Pierre uniquely enhanced for sportswear practicality, stylistically serving you through a varied daily diary.
Crafted from Japanese water-repellent Chambray gabardine, the innovative fabric offers an unmistakably irreverent shine. Sourcing the material was the fruit of a lengthy pursuit—it felt vital for the feel of the coat to mimic fabric used by Burberry in the 90s, an element central to the inspiration for our initial vision.
Pierre’s silhouette is outlined by dropped shoulders, generous sleeves and an athletic mid-length cut. The addition of a waist cord offers a flattering contoured, militarian shape that transcends gender. Detailed raw leather adjustments, reminiscent of our signature Baseball Strapback, add a sense of naturalism to the garment, which will develop a patina over time, awarding it an ever-evolving appearance.
Another thoughtful design feature is the inclusion of deep front pockets, which allow internal access to trouser pockets without unzipping the coat mid-downpour. Finishing accents like two-tone ribbons tracing the metal zipper and pronounced top button, minimalist fastening and additional protective collar closure contribute to the coat's unique, contemporary character.
Enclosed within the Italian-crafted cupro lining, softer and more breathable than silk, details a one-of-a-kind thorned branch pattern, inspired by our hand-embroidery motif—a soft nod to the Roy veste
A detachable Kaizen quilted vest, derived from Japanese military liners, is what truly distinguishes our Pierre raincoat. Offering an extra layer of warmth when temperatures drop, this interchangeable element is accented with bulletproof vest-like side straps, roomy front pockets and a further practical hunting pocket on its back, merging functionality with the Wave Texture aesthetic. Pierre seamlessly adapts to mild spring weather, transforming through winter with its sibling vest. Both offer warmth and support together and stand-alone, versatile in styling over a shirt or sweatshirt, as modelled by our muse Alioune in our latest brand shoot.
Constructed within the heart of one of Paris’ finest ateliers, the Pierre coat drew deep inspiration from functional military wear. With decades of experience servicing premium brands, Atelier DN were the only manufacturer we could trust with the heavy task, allowing and inspiring us to push through technical and artistic boundaries. Our collaboration with Atelier DN remains ongoing, with two more additions to our stylistic catalogue arriving later this winter.
The design process for the Pierre raincoat serves as an extension of the heritage, functionality and elegance that runs centrally through every Wave Texture output. This coat invited elevation into a seasonless wardrobe, finding a home with those who prioritise modern functionality as highly as aesthetic style. Pierre plays an essential role within a synergetic uniform, one that honours traditional Parisian innovation and practicality.
