Eurgh. I hate the rain. You can keep your romantic notions of tip-tapping raindrops on roofs, thank you very much. I would much rather long, languid summer days or snow. Yep, if it’s going to be bitterly cold, I say give me the good stuff. Unfortunately though, October and November invite gail force winds and downpours – the kind an umbrella can’t stand up to. So before investing in my winter coat, this is the time of the year when I’m all about the waterproof.
Now, hear me out on this. I know “water resistant” doesn’t exactly conjure up notions of couture, but if HUNTER can lure Anna Wintour onto their FROW then waterproofing can be sexier than what initially meets the eye. So here are your need to know brands making rubber, refined.
Stutterheim
Stutterheim’s brand centres around being downright miserable most of the time, marketing the notion of “Swedish Melancholy” to a global, fashion conscious audience. Founder, Alexander Stutterheim started making waterproofs when he discovered his grandfather’s old fishing suit, which he crafted into a rain jacket of his own – he soon realised that there was a market for stylish waterproofs.
He’s collaborated with Jay Z on an exclusive capsule collection, and Kanye West is a fan of this water resistant gear. If you’re willing to fork out the cash, these will keep you dry, whilst giving you some serious street cred.
Rains
Rains offer an affordable alternative to Stutterheim, but with equally fashionable cuts – they’re also more lightweight, so you can chuck them in your bag easily. The way I see it, if you live in a wet weather country and just want something to throw over your clothes, Rains are your stable bet. A rain jacket costs less than £100 and they’re far cooler than any transparent, cellophane number. Every festival goer should have one. And hell if you’re feeling really bold grab one of their hats and waterproof trousers too.
Hunter
When Kate Moss throws on a pair of Hunter’s with some denim hot pants you know you’ve got a hot brand on your hands.
When thousands of teenage girls follow suit, you know you’ve got an “exclusivity” issue.
When Stella McCartney, Anna Wintour and Rita Ora are on your London Fashion Week guest list you know you’re back in business.
Yes Hunter’s foray into ready-to-wear has cemented the notion that waterproofing can be might sexy after all. In their second season, the wellie brand is offering far more than countryside attire – think quilted coats, light duffle jackets and glossy trenches. There’s a wave of anticipation around Hunter that’s reminiscent of when Burberry re-emerged – invest now I say, the only way is up.