From Talk Sessions to Raffles, Fittings, and Photo Shoots!

March 9, 2013, Kobe──On this day, when temperatures across Japan reached levels typically seen in May, Burberry Kobe hosted an event for OPENERS readers titled "Trench Coat Event." As the name suggests, the event focused on the trench coat, an iconic piece of the Burberry brand. The event took place on the second floor of the Kobe store, which boasts one of the largest selections of imported collections in Japan, alongside the Omotesando and Ginza Marronnier Dori stores.

The event began at 4 PM with welcome champagne and finger foods, setting a relaxed mood for the guests.

Shortly after, a talk session commenced with fashion director Tomoki Sukezane and Norio Osumi. Sukezane appeared in a honey-colored trench coat paired with a white high-neck top, while Osumi sported a blue trench coat over a dark navy suit, showcasing distinct styling approaches to the trench coat.





"A while ago, I saw an acquaintance wearing a very slim trench coat. When I asked where he got it, he said he had it custom-made at a shop in London. That's what inspired me to get a trench coat custom-made. This was around 2003. When I actually went to order one, there was a very stubborn tailor who insisted, 'Anything too slim isn't Burberry,' and wouldn't make such a narrow cut... But in the end, I've found it incredibly useful for all sorts of occasions and it's become a staple," Sukezane shared.

Sukezane brought the trench coat he had custom-made in London and used it as a visual aid during the discussion.

"When I visited the office of Burberry's CCO, Christopher Bailey, he was sitting at his desk with his trench coat crumpled up underneath him. I asked him what he was doing, and he said, 'It looks terrible when it's new!' (laughs). It's just right when it's a bit worn. I'd encourage everyone to wear theirs as if you've put it through the washing machine and dryer first," Sukezane advised.





"The gabardine fabric, which is both breathable and water-repellent, the epaulets for attaching binoculars and canteens, the D-rings for grenades, and the storm shield to soften the impact of gunfire – the trench coat was originally designed with the functionality needed by soldiers in the trenches during the early 20th century. It's the ultimate basic item, made to fit any of the hundreds of thousands of soldiers. Because it's an item that suits everyone, you can enjoy styling it in your own unique way. It's best to wear it extensively until it develops its own character," Osumi explained.

Following the engaging talk session, a luxurious raffle was held. The first prize was a cashmere stole made in Scotland, the second prize was a bottle of "Pol Roger," a premium cuvée created in honor of Winston Churchill, a renowned lover of champagne, and the third prize was a dinner voucher for two at "By the House of Pacific," the main dining room of the Oriental Hotel, located opposite Burberry Kobe.

Next came the fitting session. Guests tried on trench coats that suited their individual styles, from classic designs to the more fashion-forward pieces from Burberry Prorsum. They consulted with Sukezane, Osumi, and the shop staff to select their perfect trench coat, followed by a photo shoot with a professional photographer.





Over 100 artisans are involved in the creation of a single trench coat, which undergoes more than 300 manufacturing processes and at least 26 rigorous inspections before reaching us. This special event allowed us to hear about a timeless item that has remained relevant for over a century and to truly appreciate its quality by trying it on ourselves.


Burberry Kobe
27 Naniwa-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture
Tel. 078-571-2100

Burberry International
0120-046-225