Dress Line "Ulster Coat"

I would like to introduce The Dressing Lab's made-to-order Ulster Coat.

What Is an Ulster Coat?

The "Ulster" in Ulster Coat refers to the Ulster region in the north of Ireland. A travel coat made with thick fabric woven in that region appeared in the late 19th century, became popular in Britain under the name Ulster Coat, and has remained a long-loved coat design ever since.

Details of The Dressing Lab's Ulster Coat

Travel at that time was by carriage, and winter journeys were extremely cold and severe. The Ulster Coat is said to have functioned not only as practical outerwear, but also almost like a blanket. For this reason, it was basically made as an enveloping double-breasted coat with a long length falling below the knee. It also featured a belt at the waist, which could be tightened to fit the coat closer to the body and improve warmth.

The face of the Ulster Coat is its collar. The distinctive collar, known as the Ulster collar, has a large upper collar that is almost as wide as the lapel. The outer line from the upper collar to the lapel has a rounded shape, giving the coat a somewhat relaxed atmosphere.

A relaxed A-line double-breasted silhouette is one of its defining features. By tightening the waist with the belt, you can improve warmth while also changing the silhouette.

The cuffs feature tabs, a detail designed to help prevent wind and rain from entering. When tightened, they also allow you to enjoy a change in the sleeve silhouette.

The Dressing Lab's made-to-order Ulster Coat follows the traditional details of the classic Ulster Coat, while reinterpreting the design in a modern way with features such as raglan sleeves and a relaxed A-line silhouette. Its appeal lies in its versatility. It can be worn not only in business or formal settings, but also casually on days off or while traveling, simply thrown over knitwear or a shirt. Because the Ulster Coat itself has a strong presence, it is also a nice point that the outfit feels complete just by putting it on.

Being able to adjust the length is another advantage of a made-to-order Ulster Coat. We adjust the length according to your preference and height. A long below-the-knee length, which can be difficult to find in ready-made Ulster Coats, can also be ordered. We also adjust the position of the waist belt to create a beautiful A-line silhouette.

Difference from a Polo Coat

When speaking of the Ulster collar, the famous Polo Coat often comes to mind. So, what is the difference between an Ulster Coat and a Polo Coat? A Polo Coat is characterized by details such as an Ulster collar, turn-up cuffs, framed patch pockets, a back belt, and an inverted pleat at the back. In other words, a Polo Coat can be considered a type of Ulster Coat, with additional distinctive details added to the Ulster Coat design.

Compared with a Polo Coat, The Dressing Lab's Ulster Coat has simpler details. The cuffs are not turn-up cuffs, but plain sleeves with tabs. The waist pockets are not framed patch pockets, but slanted welt pockets. The back does not have an inverted pleat, and instead uses a center vent. This makes the coat lighter in impression and easier to wear in a natural, understated way.

While Polo Coats are generally made with set-in sleeves, The Dressing Lab's Ulster Coat uses raglan sleeves, which have a more casual character than set-in sleeves. Raglan sleeves were originally designed to make it easier for injured soldiers to put on and take off their coats, so they allow the coat to be slipped on easily. They also give the coat a soft appearance and a comfortable feel.

Examples of Made-to-Order Ulster Coats

Cashmere, camel hair, wool-cashmere, tweed, cotton, nylon... you can choose from a wide variety of fabrics according to your preferences and needs. If you would like to stay close to the original character of the Ulster Coat, cashmere or thick tweed with excellent warmth is a wonderful choice. If you would like to wear it as a spring coat, nylon, cotton, or even jacket fabrics can also work beautifully. Let me introduce some order examples.

An Ulster Coat ordered in black cashmere from Caccioppoli

A Spritumn Ulster Coat ordered in green nylon from Limonta

As with our suits and jackets, The Dressing Lab's Ulster Coat is usually tailored with canvas construction. However, if you prefer an even lighter finish, we can also suggest a large facing construction with reduced lining, or, depending on the fabric, a Spritumn Coat specification without lining or canvas, especially when using smooth materials such as nylon or cotton. You can also choose the lining, buttons, and personalized embroidery according to your preference. Being able to create a one-of-a-kind Ulster Coat with your own sense of character is one of the true pleasures of made-to-order clothing.

Born in the late 19th century as outerwear for travel, the Ulster Coat can be worn with a wide range of styles, from suits to casual outfits. As a coat that can be used both on and off duty, it may in fact be the second coat to consider after a Chester Coat. If you are looking for a coat that you can enjoy for many years in many different situations, I would be very happy for you to consider having one made to order in your preferred fabric and details. If you are looking for an Ulster Coat, please feel free to consult with The Dressing Lab. We will carefully create an Ulster Coat that you can enjoy for many years.