frfashion1-10, Exercise 3: A British legend

Model answer (check the details), using "the trench coat was invented for officers in the First World War":

1. Who says it? Burberry and other makers, writers on military dress and fashion historians.
2. What exactly is claimed? That the trench coat was designed for officers in the trenches in 1914 to 1918. "Invented" and "for officers" are strong words.
3. What would count as evidence? Dated advertisements and catalogues, military dress regulations, surviving garments, and patents.
4. Compared with what? Earlier waterproof coats and army greatcoats, and the rival claim of another firm (Aquascutum) (check).
5. Which period? The late 19th century to the 1910s, with the coats worn and renamed during and after the war.
6. What would change my mind? Evidence that the coat was already on sale for civilians or officers before the war, or that the design was copied from earlier coats.

Result: probably a mix. Weatherproof coats of this type were made before the war, and firms adapted them for officers in the war, so the claim is that the trench coat was developed for the trenches, which is partly true, while "invented" is too strong (check). A careful statement says "adapted and popularised for officers".

Care: companies have an interest in the story. Look for dated catalogues and military records.