The 250-Year History of the Macintosh Coat

The story of the Macintosh or “Mac” Coat spans back more than 250 years with the birth of Charles Macintosh, who was born in Scotland on December 29, 1766.

Macintosh worked as a clerk for a Glasgow merchant, but by the age of 19 he had already given it up to pursue chemistry. At 20 years old, Macintosh opened up a plant in Glasgow that developed innovative new dying methods. It was while experimenting with the chemical naphtha (an oily liquid by-product of tar), that he stumbled across a finding that would change how we dress forever. By placing a layer of liquid rubber (made with naphtha) between two layers of fabric, Macintosh created a new material that would be resistant to water while also remaining flexible and wearable, the perfect material for resisting rainy conditions. 

 

From there, the Mac coat was created. A cultural icon of British fashion, the Mac coat, has defined classic British style and remains relevant to this day. Our version, Nelson, is made from a similar water-repellant fabric blend of polyester and cotton that is produced in Italy.  Nelson features a hidden fly front, side tabs, a high collar, and is completely unlined. Hidden details include a contrasting under collar, inner placket, interior yoke lining, and piping.