Coatee

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Coatee is a term that refers to a short coat typically worn by men during the 18th and 19th centuries. The coatee was a common garment in military uniforms and also found its way into civilian dress during this period. It is characterized by its length, reaching only to the waist or slightly thereabouts, and often featured decorative buttons, high collars, and tight sleeves. The design and specifics of the coatee varied significantly depending on the country, the branch of military service, and the era in which it was worn.

History and Description

The coatee evolved from the longer tailcoats that were popular in the 17th century. As fashion shifted towards more practical and less cumbersome attire, the coatee became a staple of men's wardrobes, especially within military uniforms. In the military context, coatees were designed to be form-fitting and were often adorned with epaulettes, lace, and other regimental insignias to denote rank and affiliation.

During the Napoleonic Wars, the coatee was a common sight among the soldiers of both the French Empire and the allied forces. The British Army, for example, adopted the coatee for its infantry and cavalry units, with variations in color, cut, and decoration to distinguish between different regiments.

In civilian life, the coatee was also fashionable, though the designs were usually less ornate than their military counterparts. Civilian coatees were often made of wool or cotton and could be found in a variety of colors. They were typically worn over a vest and paired with breeches or trousers.

Variations

There were several variations of the coatee, including: - **Military Coatees**: Specifically designed for various branches of the military, these coatees featured distinctive colors, trim, and regimental badges. - **Dress Coatees**: Worn for formal occasions, dress coatees were made from finer materials and included elaborate detailing such as silk facing and gold or silver lace. - **Hunting Coatees**: Adapted for outdoor activities, hunting coatees were made from durable materials and often had reinforced areas to withstand the rigors of the sport.

Decline and Legacy

The popularity of the coatee began to wane in the mid-19th century as fashion trends shifted towards longer coats and jackets. By the end of the 19th century, the coatee had largely fallen out of favor, replaced by the frock coat and later the modern suit jacket.

Despite its decline, the coatee has left a lasting impact on military and civilian fashion. It is often seen in historical reenactments, period dramas, and as part of the ceremonial dress for certain military units, preserving the legacy of this distinctive garment.

See Also

• Military uniform
• Tailcoat
• Frock coat
• Napoleonic Wars