The humble duffel coat has experienced a quiet resurgence in popularity among grown-ups this year, with numerous high-profile individuals sporting the classic style. From Joe Wilkinson and Keira Knightley in Waitrose's Christmas advert to footballer Cole Palmer in Burberry's 2024 campaign, it's clear that the duffel is back on fashion's radar.
While its origins may be rooted in Belgian fabric, the coat has become an integral part of British culture, with associations dating back to World War II and Field Marshal Bernard Law Montgomery. However, its popularity among creative types, including Jean Cocteau and David Bowie, suggests that the duffel has a long history of being associated with artistic expression.
Despite criticisms from some quarters, including Esquire's editor-in-chief Teo van den Broeke, who believes the coat can be "infantilising" when worn by adults, many argue that its enduring appeal lies in its functional and heritage-rich design. For men who value practicality, storytelling, and attitude, the duffel coat offers a compelling combination.
As one expert noted, the duffel's classic design allows it to transcend fashion trends, with top designers such as Burberry and Prada putting their own spin on the style. As Groves from the University of Westminster puts it, "You can't really reinvent the duffel" – its timeless appeal has cemented its place in sartorial history.
In fact, demand for the coat is so high that John Lewis reports a 75% increase in sales compared to last month, with searches on Depop soaring by 159% over the past four months. Whether worn by Paddington Bear or as part of a rock star's wardrobe, the humble duffel coat has once again earned its place in the spotlight.
While its origins may be rooted in Belgian fabric, the coat has become an integral part of British culture, with associations dating back to World War II and Field Marshal Bernard Law Montgomery. However, its popularity among creative types, including Jean Cocteau and David Bowie, suggests that the duffel has a long history of being associated with artistic expression.
Despite criticisms from some quarters, including Esquire's editor-in-chief Teo van den Broeke, who believes the coat can be "infantilising" when worn by adults, many argue that its enduring appeal lies in its functional and heritage-rich design. For men who value practicality, storytelling, and attitude, the duffel coat offers a compelling combination.
As one expert noted, the duffel's classic design allows it to transcend fashion trends, with top designers such as Burberry and Prada putting their own spin on the style. As Groves from the University of Westminster puts it, "You can't really reinvent the duffel" – its timeless appeal has cemented its place in sartorial history.
In fact, demand for the coat is so high that John Lewis reports a 75% increase in sales compared to last month, with searches on Depop soaring by 159% over the past four months. Whether worn by Paddington Bear or as part of a rock star's wardrobe, the humble duffel coat has once again earned its place in the spotlight.
️... been seeing some cool pics on the 'gram with joe wilkinson rocking one in waitrose's christmas ad, and cole palmer slaying it in burberrys latest campaign 
. love how it's still all about practicality and attitude, plus its rich history is dope 
. don't @ me if you're not into it, but i'm totes here for the duffel revival 
. I mean, who doesn't love the practicality and heritage of it? Cole Palmer rocking one in Burberry is defo goals 
. I'm loving the 75% increase in sales at John Lewis right now, it's like the duffel coat is saying "hey world, I'm back and better than ever!" 
I'm loving how the duffel coat is getting the nostalgic vibes going! 
It's so cool that it's not just limited to being "practical" but also has a rich history and associations with art and cultural expression. I mean, who wouldn't want to channel their inner David Bowie or Jean Cocteau? 
Can't wait to see more people rocking this classic style! 
I mean, I'm glad the duffel coat is having a moment, but can we talk about how old-fashioned this article is? It's like, totally stuck in the past 
. Like, where's the analysis on why it's so popular now? Is it just because of nostalgic vibes or something? 
And what's up with all these high-profile folks featuring in ads? Can't we get some real talk about its functionality and practicality? 
! I mean who doesn't love a classic that never goes out of style? 
, and I'm loving how waitrose got in on the action with Joe Wilkinson & Keira Knightley 
. But for real tho, 75% increase in sales at John Lewis?! 
that's insane! I need a duffel coat in my life stat 
. I'm loving the way designers are putting their own spin on the classic design, making it fresh and exciting again 
The duffel is back and it's like the internet just remembered it 
! Cole Palmer rocking Burberry? 
whether you're a Paddington Bear fan or just a rock star at heart. The fact that demand is through the roof is pretty telling – people are still drawn to that classic charm! 
like i've always had a thing for this classic style but now I wanna cop one ASAP I swear my friend's dad has the same exact coat from like 70s or somethin and he's still rockin it lol what do u guys think about the duffel being back in fashion again? should we all just give up on tryna look cool and just wear these comfy, practical coats instead 
THAT JUST SOUNDS LIKE HATERS SAYING STUFF.
. Now, I can see why it's associated with artists and creative types - there's just something about the vibe of those iconic designs that screams "I'm a free spirit" 
. And honestly, who doesn't love the practicality of having a coat that's both stylish and functional? Mine's been hanging in my closet for years, just waiting for me to break it out 
... I mean, I can see why it's cute and all, but 75% increase in sales? That's wild 
. Is everyone just suddenly remembering how cool they're old parents were when they wore duffels to the farmer's market? 
. Still, I guess if it makes you feel like Bernard Montgomery, that's all the style you need 
. I'm gonna have to pick one up for myself, or maybe just grab a nice pair of duffel socks lol