Any fashion historians in these parts? Need help with my trench coat

I just bought a trench coat and have no idea what the strap is on the back under side of the collar.

See pic.

Message edited 4/15/2010 6:58:49 PM.

Re: Any fashion historians in these parts? Need help with my trench coat

do you mean the shoulder ones? That's all I see.

The trench coat became an optional item of dress in the British Army, and was obtained by private purchase by officers and Warrant Officers Class I who were under no obligation to own them. [3] No other ranks were permitted to wear them. Another optional item was the British Warm, a wool coat similar to the greatcoat that was shorter in length, also worn by British officers and Warrant Officers Class I as an optional piece.

During the First World War, the design of the trenchcoat was modified to include shoulder straps and D-rings. The shoulder straps were for the attachment of epaulettes or other rank insignia; There is a popular myth that the D-ring was for the attachment of hand grenades. The ring was originally for map cases and swords or other equipment to the belt. This latter pattern was dubbed "trench coat" by the soldiers in the front line. Many veterans returning to civilian life kept the coats that became fashionable for both men and women.

Message edited 4/16/2010 10:40:27 AM.

Re: Any fashion historians in these parts? Need help with my trench coat

I believe it has something to do with the original military design & being able to tighten the collar when it was all buttoned up.

Re: Any fashion historians in these parts? Need help with my trench coat

Thanks! I actually e-mailed Lands' End (where I ordered the coat) and they got back to me. The strap on the back of the collar is the stow away position of the storm flap. It goes across the front to keep water off my neck when the whole thing is buttoned up.

I think it is one of those classic details that no one cares about now but kind of make it authentic.