Frock coat

Frock Coat April 1904

Man's 3-piece velvet suit c. 1755

Man's silk and wool twill frock coat c. 1820

Preußische Landwehr 1815

French Light Infantry

Albert of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha

Frock coat is a man's coat characterized by knee-length skirts all around the base, popular during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The style is derived from the earlier frock, which was a traditional garment worn by monks, but the frock coat became a staple of formal wear for men in Europe and North America. It is typically double-breasted with a button closure, though single-breasted versions are also known.

History

The frock coat emerged in the early 19th century, drawing on the military uniforms of the time and evolving from the country clothing of the 18th century. It quickly became a symbol of gentility and was adopted for formal and business occasions. By the mid-19th century, the frock coat had become the standard daywear for men, replacing the earlier tailcoat for most informal and semi-formal occasions.

Design

A typical frock coat was made of heavy woolen fabric and was often black or dark blue. The front of the coat featured a slight cutaway below the waist, allowing for easier access to trouser pockets and giving the coat a distinctive silhouette. The reverse had a vent to facilitate movement. The coat was usually worn with matching trousers, a waistcoat, a collared shirt, and a cravat or tie.

Decline

The popularity of the frock coat began to wane in the early 20th century as styles shifted towards shorter jackets that were considered more practical for daily wear. By the end of World War I, the frock coat had largely been relegated to formal occasions, such as weddings, funerals, and some types of professional attire. The morning coat, with its tapered tail, took over as the standard formal daytime wear for men.

Cultural Significance

Throughout its history, the frock coat was more than just a piece of clothing; it was a symbol of a man's social status and professionalism. It was an essential part of a gentleman's wardrobe, signifying respectability and authority. The frock coat also appeared in various forms across different cultures, adapted to local tastes and climates.

Modern Usage

Today, the frock coat is rarely worn in daily life, with its use mostly limited to historical reenactments, period dramas, and certain formal ceremonies. However, it remains an iconic piece of menswear, representing the height of 19th-century elegance and the complexities of social dress codes of the time.