Mackintosh

Mackintosh has been a defining name in outerwear since 1824, celebrated as one of the world’s most influential coat makers. The brand’s legacy is rooted in its pioneering craftsmanship, unmatched expertise in working with rubberised fabric, and a continuous evolution of design that has shaped the history of waterproof clothing. Mackintosh is best known for its iconic outerwear, but its reputation extends to the introduction of new collections, including the Mackintosh Mainline and collaborations with some of the world’s leading fashion houses. The story of Mackintosh begins with Scottish chemist Charles Macintosh (1766–1843), whose revolutionary method of waterproofing cotton at the dawn of the industrial revolution laid the foundation for the brand. His discovery led to the development of rubberised outerwear, giving birth to the Mackintosh coat, or “Mac.” This innovation marked the first time a fabric had been completely waterproofed, transforming both fabric technology and design. The Mackintosh coat quickly gained international acclaim for its practicality and enduring style. Throughout history, Mackintosh has played a significant role in shaping functional fashion. The brand produced rubberised trench coats for the British Army in 1945, which were used by messengers to carry important documents during wartime. From the 1920s until the 1980s, Mackintosh also supplied rubberised coats to British Railways, primarily worn by those responsible for security checks. The making of a Mackintosh coat remains a meticulous process. The core material is bonded cotton fabric—two layers of cotton bonded together with rubber, dyed to match the outer layers so there is no show-through. Once the bonded cotton arrives at the Mackintosh factory, patterns are laid out and marked up. The pieces are then cut, sewn, and united using a special glue applied by hand, a technique mastered over many years. Water-resistant tape is attached by hand and pressed over exposed seams to ensure complete waterproofing. This intricate, traditional process results in a limited number of garments produced each year, guaranteeing the highest standard of quality. Today, Mackintosh continues to produce its signature rubberised coats using the same traditional techniques pioneered in the early 19th century. The brand stands as a luxury name that blends updated technology with heritage, craftsmanship, and a commitment to timeless design.