Tag Archives: Fiction

The Trench Coat and Fedora: A Fashion Legacy in Crime Fiction

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Detectives and private investigators have long been associated with a distinctive fashion style, consisting of a trench coat and a fedora hat. This iconic look has become a staple of the crime fiction genre, and its popularity has endured for decades.

Here’s a closer look at the history of the trench coat and fedora in crime fiction and why this fashion legacy still exists today.

The trench coat

The trench coat has its roots in military fashion. It was originally developed as a practical garment for soldiers in the First World War, with a durable, water-resistant design that protected them from the elements.

In the years that followed, the trench coat became popular as a stylish item of clothing for men. It was particularly popular in the film industry, where it was worn by actors such as Humphrey Bogart and Spencer Tracy in their roles as hard-boiled detectives and private investigators.

The trench coat has a rich history and has evolved over time to become the iconic garment we know today. Here are a few key milestones in the trench coat’s evolution:

  • The trench coat was originally developed as a military garment during World War I. Its design was based on the traditional Mackintosh coat, but with modifications that made it more practical for soldiers in the trenches. These included shoulder straps for epaulettes, a gun flap on the chest, and a storm flap on the back to help shed rain.
  • After the war, the trench coat became a popular civilian garment. It was particularly associated with the interwar period and the Art Deco era, and was worn by both men and women as a stylish and practical coat.
  • During World War II, the trench coat once again became a military garment, worn by officers and soldiers in the field. It was often made in khaki or olive drab, and was used to protect soldiers from the elements.
  • In the post-war period, the trench coat continued to be a popular civilian garment. It was worn by Hollywood stars and became a symbol of glamour and sophistication.
  • In the 1960s and 70s, the trench coat was reinterpreted by fashion designers like Yves Saint Laurent and Burberry. It became a staple of the “mod” and “preppy” styles, and was often made in bright colours or bold patterns.
  • In recent years, the trench coat has been embraced by high fashion once again. Designers have experimented with new fabrics, colours, and silhouettes, but the classic design elements of the trench coat – the double-breasted front, the belted waist, and the storm flap – remain timeless.

The fedora

The word “fedora” originally referred to a soft felt hat with a wide brim and a creased crown. The term is believed to have originated in the late 1800s and was named after a character in a French play called “Fedora,” which premiered in 1882.

The character, Princess Fedora, wore a hat with a soft brim and a creased crown, and the style of hat quickly became popular among fashionable women of the time. The term “fedora” eventually came to refer specifically to this style of hat, which was often made of felt and had a ribbon band around the base of the crown.

In the early 20th century, the fedora became popular with men as well, and was often worn with suits or overcoats as a stylish accessory. Today, the term “fedora” is still used to describe this classic style of hat, which remains a popular choice for both men and women who appreciate its timeless style and versatility.

In the 1920s and 1930s, the fedora became particularly associated with law enforcement officers. Police officers and detectives wore fedoras as part of their uniforms to shield their eyes from the sun and convey a sense of authority. This association with law enforcement gave the fedora a sense of rugged masculinity and toughness, which made it appealing to men of all backgrounds.

The fedora also became a popular accessory in Hollywood during this time. Many leading men of the era, including Humphrey Bogart, Cary Grant, and Clark Gable, were known for wearing fedoras both on and off the screen. Their influence helped to cement the fedora’s status as a symbol of classic masculine style.

In the post-war period, the fedora continued to be a popular accessory for men. It was often worn with suits and overcoats as a way to complete a sharp, sophisticated look. However, as fashion trends shifted in the 1960s and 1970s, the fedora fell out of favour with many men. It was seen as old-fashioned and conservative, and was often associated with the establishment and the “squares.”

Despite this, the fedora has remained a classic style that is still worn by many men today and its popularity has infused into popular culture.

Can you name all of these iconic fedora wearers?

  1. Indiana Jones – Harrison Ford’s iconic character in the “Indiana Jones” film series is often seen wearing a fedora hat.
  2. Frank Sinatra – The legendary crooner and actor was known for his stylish fedoras and often wore them on and off stage.
  3. Humphrey Bogart – The classic Hollywood actor was often seen wearing a fedora in his films, including “Casablanca” and “The Maltese Falcon.”
  4. Michael Jackson – The late pop icon was known for his signature style, which often included a fedora hat.
  5. Bruno Mars – The Grammy-winning musician is known for his stylish fashion sense, which often includes a fedora.
  6. Freddy Krueger – The horror movie character from “A Nightmare on Elm Street” is known for his tattered fedora hat.
  7. Dick Tracy – The classic comic book detective is often depicted wearing a yellow trench coat and fedora hat.
  8. The Blues Brothers – John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd’s characters in the film “The Blues Brothers” wore fedoras as part of their signature look.
  9. Walter White – The main character in the TV series “Breaking Bad” often wore a pork pie fedora hat.
  10. Johnny Depp – The actor is often seen wearing a fedora in his films and in public appearances.

The trench coat and fedora combo

In the 1930s, the trench coat and fedora combination began to appear in the pulp magazines of the time, which were full of tough-guy detectives and spies. The trench coat provided cover for a concealed weapon, while the fedora shielded the face from view, creating an air of mystery and danger. This look was further popularised by Hollywood films of the 1940s and 1950s, which showcased detectives and private investigators wearing the trench coat and fedora as their signature outfit.

There are several reasons for the enduring popularity of the trench coat and fedora in crime fiction. For one thing, the look is both practical and stylish, with the trench coat providing warmth and protection from the rain, and the fedora adding a touch of sophistication. The outfit also conveys a sense of authority and power, suggesting that the person wearing it is someone to be reckoned with.

But perhaps the most important reason for the trench coat and fedora’s continued popularity is their association with the detective genre. The trench coat and fedora have become a visual shorthand for the hard-boiled detective, evoking a sense of mystery, danger, and intrigue. They are instantly recognisable as symbols of the crime fiction genre, and they continue to be used in films, TV shows, and novels to this day.

So, the trench coat and fedora have become an enduring fashion legacy in crime fiction. Their popularity can be traced back to their practicality, style, and association with the detective genre. Although fashion trends may come and go, the trench coat and fedora will always remain a symbol of the hard-boiled detective and the world of crime fiction.

Thanks for taking the time to read this post. If you found it informative and entertaining, please consider sharing it with your friends and followers on social media. And if you have any feedback or suggestions for future topics, I’d love to hear from you in the comments below. Don’t forget to subscribe for more content and updates, or pop over to my newsletter page for more crime stuff, direct to your inbox every month.

See you soon.

Wendy

    Sidekicks in Crime Fiction: Adding Depth to Character Dynamics

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    Crime fiction is a genre that has captured the hearts and minds of readers for centuries. From classic detective novels to modern thrillers, crime fiction has the power to transport readers to the dark underbelly of society and immerse them in a world of danger, intrigue, and suspense.

    One of the key elements that sets crime fiction apart from other genres is the dynamic between the protagonist and their sidekick. Often serving as a sounding board, comic relief, or even a source of conflict, sidekicks can add depth to character dynamics and provide a unique perspective on the story.

    Sidekicks come in many forms, from law enforcement partners to criminal accomplices. Police procedural novels often feature partners in law enforcement, such as detectives, FBI agents, or other law enforcement officials. These partners often serve as sounding boards for the protagonist, bouncing ideas off each other and working together to solve the case.

    In contrast, criminal accomplices can offer a unique perspective on a case. These sidekicks may be reluctant or unwilling partners in crime, forced to work with the protagonist for their own reasons. This can create a complex and morally ambiguous relationship between the protagonist and their sidekick.

    Here are a few examples of famous sidekicks in crime fiction:

    Dr. John Watson from Arthur Conan Doyle’s “Sherlock Holmes” series
    Robin Ellacott from Robert Galbraith’s “Cormoran Strike” series
    Sergeant Lewis from Colin Dexter’s “Inspector Morse” series
    Ariadne Oliver from Agatha Christie’s “Hercule Poirot” series
    Detective Sergeant Barbara Havers from Elizabeth George’s “Inspector Lynley” series
    Watson Bryant from John Grisham’s “The Runaway Jury”
    Jesse Stone from Robert B. Parker’s “Jesse Stone” series
    Marty Hart from Nic Pizzolatto’s “True Detective”
    Hawk from Robert B. Parker’s “Spenser” series
    Tinker Dill from Dashiell Hammett’s “The Thin Man”

    One of the key functions of a sidekick in crime fiction is to help the protagonist navigate through the complex world of crime. Whether it’s providing technical expertise, emotional support, or even physical backup, sidekicks often play a vital role in helping the protagonist achieve their goals. By working together, the protagonist and their sidekick can overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles and bring criminals to justice.

    But sidekicks are more than just a means to an end – they can also be fully-realised characters in their own right. Some sidekicks are just as complex and intriguing as the protagonist, with their own motivations, fears, and desires. In some cases, the sidekick may even have their own character arc or storyline that runs parallel to the protagonist’s. This adds an additional layer of depth to the story and can keep readers engaged and invested in both characters.

    True Detective


    One of my personal favourites is Marty Hart in ‘True Detective’. Marty Hart is a prime example of a sidekick who serves as a foil to the protagonist in crime fiction. In “True Detective,” he is the partner and friend of the main character, Rustin “Rust” Cohle, and provides a contrasting perspective to Cohle’s pessimistic and nihilistic worldview.

    Hart, played by Woody Harrelson in the television series, is a family man with a more optimistic and traditional outlook on life. He is a detective in the Louisiana State Police and has a more grounded and practical approach to police work compared to Cohle’s more philosophical approach. Hart is also a flawed character with a complicated personal life, including infidelity and alcoholism, which contrasts with Cohle’s more monastic lifestyle.

    Throughout the series, Hart serves as a sounding board for Cohle’s ideas and theories, challenging him when he goes too far in his bleak worldview. At the same time, Hart’s flaws and mistakes are exposed, highlighting the differences between the two characters and adding depth to their relationship.

    Marty Hart’s character is an excellent example of how a sidekick can add complexity to a crime fiction story by serving as a foil to the protagonist. By offering a contrasting perspective to the main character, sidekicks like Hart can add depth to the story and highlight the protagonist’s flaws and strengths.

    If you haven’t seen this series I highly recommend it. Matthew McConaughey’s performance is an acting masterclass.

    Dr Watson


    Dr. John Watson is one of the most iconic sidekicks in crime fiction and an integral part of the “Sherlock Holmes” series by Arthur Conan Doyle. He serves as the loyal friend and partner of the brilliant detective Sherlock Holmes and is the narrator of most of the stories in the series.

    Watson is a former army surgeon who meets Holmes through a mutual acquaintance and becomes his flatmate and assistant in his investigations. He provides a contrasting perspective to Holmes, who is known for his cold and analytical approach to crime-solving. Watson is more empathetic and emotional, often serving as the emotional anchor to Holmes’ more detached persona.

    Portrayals of Dr Watson. Image credit: sherlockshome.net

    Throughout the series, Watson’s character develops beyond his initial role as a narrator and sidekick. He grows in his own right as a character, eventually becoming a successful writer and even marrying and starting a family. Watson’s character is also used as a tool for Conan Doyle to provide exposition and backstory for Holmes and the cases they investigate.

    Watson’s role as a sidekick is essential to the “Sherlock Holmes” series, as he provides a more human and relatable perspective to the genius detective. His contrasting personality and role as a supportive friend and partner make him an excellent foil to Holmes, highlighting the detective’s eccentricities and making the dynamic between the two characters all the more compelling.

    Doyle himself spoke highly of Watson, calling him a “character for whom I have the highest regard” and “a composite of several of my medical friends and myself.” He also acknowledged that the character of Watson was essential to the success of the Sherlock Holmes stories, stating that “Holmes, who has no peer in solving small puzzles, is eclipsed by his own sidekick in the larger one of personality.”

    If Watson interests you, this is a great article on the different portrayals of him in film and on TV. https://sherlockshome.net/2016/05/27/10-greatest-ever-portrayals-of-dr-watson

    Unusual partnerships


    Aside from the typical detective partnerships, often two completely different (and often opposing) characters come together in crime solving unity. I love these unlikely pairings, and the exploration of their relationship adds another layer of intrigue to the central investigative plotline.

    Here are a few notable ones:


    “The Alienist” by Caleb Carr – In this novel, the unconventional trio of detectives – a newspaper reporter named John Moore, a female secretary named Sara Howard, and a criminal psychologist named Dr. Laszlo Kreizler – are tasked with tracking down a serial killer who is targeting young boys in New York City. Despite their differences and occasional clashes, the trio must work together to unravel the mystery and stop the killer before he strikes again.

    “The Surgeon” by Tess Gerritsen – In this novel, Boston detective Jane Rizzoli teams up with FBI agent Gabriel Dean to catch a sadistic killer who preys on young women. Rizzoli is initially skeptical of Dean’s involvement, but as they work together to solve the case, they develop a mutual respect and understanding.

    Interestingly, in the US TV series Rizzoli and Isles, Rizzoli partners up on her investigations with friend and pathologist Maura Isles. I’m a huge fan. Their multi-level dynamic is lovely, and their contrasting traits and personalities perfectly compliment each other.

    “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” by Stieg Larsson – In this novel, journalist Mikael Blomkvist hires Lisbeth Salander, a brilliant but troubled hacker, to help him investigate a decades-old case involving a wealthy family. Despite their vastly different personalities and backgrounds, Blomkvist and Salander form an unlikely partnership as they unravel the dark secrets of the family.

    “The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides – In this novel, psychiatrist Theo Faber becomes obsessed with treating Alicia Berenson, a woman who has been accused of murdering her husband and has not spoken a word since the crime. As he delves deeper into her case, he enlists the help of a former criminal named Theo, who holds the key to unlocking Alicia’s secrets. Together, they form an unlikely partnership as they uncover the truth about what happened the night of the murder.

    “The Poet” by Michael Connelly – In this novel, retired FBI agent Rachel Walling teams up with crime reporter Jack McEvoy to investigate a series of murders that may be linked to a notorious serial killer known as “The Poet.” Despite their initial mistrust and professional rivalry, Walling and McEvoy must work together to solve the case and stop the killer before he strikes again.

    Conclusion

    Sidekicks are an essential part of crime fiction, offering a fresh perspective on a case and adding depth to character dynamics. Whether they are partners in law enforcement or criminal accomplices, sidekicks can create tension and conflict, highlighting the strengths and flaws of the protagonist. They have the power to elevate the reading experience and make the story more engaging and immersive.

    So, the next time you pick up a crime novel, take a moment to appreciate the role of the sidekick – you never know, they just might be your new favourite character.

    I’m an avid reader, so I can’t wait to meet more of them!

    Thanks for taking the time to read this post. If you found it informative and entertaining, please consider sharing it with your friends and followers on social media. And if you have any feedback or suggestions for future topics, I’d love to hear from you in the comments below. Don’t forget to subscribe for more content and updates, or pop over to my newsletter page for more crime stuff, direct to your inbox every month.

    See you soon.

    Wendy

      Beyond the Sensationalism: Understanding the Complexities of Our Fascination with True Crime

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      Crime and killers have long captivated the public imagination, whether through sensational media coverage, true crime documentaries, or fictional depictions in books and movies. But why are we so fascinated by these dark and often disturbing topics? What drives our interest in the minds and actions of those who commit violent crimes?

      In this blog post, I’ll explore some of the reasons why crime and killers have become such enduringly popular subjects and look at topics that captivate us, our fascination with the macabre, and the ways in which popular culture has both reflected and reinforced our interest in these topics.

      Our fascination with killers

      The public’s fascination with notorious killers such as Ted Bundy and Jeffrey Dahmer are a stark example of our captivation with the actions and motivations of criminals. These two individuals in particular, due to the heinous nature of their crimes and their widespread media coverage, have become household names and continue to be subjects of intense public interest.

      Bundy’s charm and charisma, coupled with his horrific acts of violence against women, have made him a subject of fascination for decades. His high-profile trial and eventual execution only added to his infamy, with media outlets covering every aspect of his case in minute detail.

      Similarly, Dahmer’s gruesome crimes, which included cannibalism and necrophilia, shocked and horrified the public. His trial, which revealed the depths of his depravity, was widely covered in the media and cemented his status as one of the most notorious killers in modern history.

      The ethical dilemma

      When my mum (an avid reader and a fan of gory dramas) read an early draft of ‘Justified’ she said to me, “How did you come up with such a grisly murder?” It made me think. Not so much about where the idea came from, but about the concept of murder as entertainment and the ethical dilemma faced by murder mystery and crime writers.

      Recently, the same question has been raised about the glamorisation of true crime following the huge success of the Jeffery Dahmer series. True crime is one of the fastest growing genres of entertainment and its followers are insatiable, demanding more stories about humanity at its darkest.

      “Serial killers tantalize people much like traffic accidents, train wrecks, or natural disasters,” Scott Bonn, professor of criminology at Drew University and author of Why We Love Serial Killers, wrote at TIME. “The public’s fascination with them can be seen as a specific manifestation of its more general fixation on violence and calamity. In other words, the actions of a serial killer may be horrible to behold but much of the public simply cannot look away due to the spectacle.”

      But true crime is about real people, in real, terrible situations, and that comes with real consequences. Some insist true crime exploits victims and their families, while others argue that it helps people to process their greatest fears, that it gives an insight into our culture and norms as well as our anxieties and values. Whichever side of the fence you sit on, ethically, true crime blows through our lives on a precarious breeze.

      Our enduring fascination

      The enduring fascination with crime and killers is a phenomenon that has captivated people for centuries. The media is awash with true crime shows, books, and podcasts, all catering to our insatiable appetite for the dark and disturbing. But why are we so drawn to these stories of murder and mayhem?

      Some might argue that people are interested in crime and killers simply because it’s human nature to be drawn to sensational or dramatic events. After all, tales of violence and wrongdoing have been part of human storytelling for millennia, from the ancient Greek myths to Shakespeare’s tragedies. However, this argument alone does not fully account for the enduring popularity of these topics.

      The appeal of true crime content, in particular, is not simply due to its sensational nature. True crime often involves detailed and often graphic depictions of real-life crimes, which can provide a sense of realism and authenticity that fictional crime stories may lack. It allows us to explore the darkest corners of the human psyche and understand the motivations behind heinous acts.

      Another counterargument might be that our fascination with crime and killers is a result of media sensationalism, with news outlets and entertainment companies exploiting our fear and fascination with violence for profit. While it’s true that media coverage can shape public perceptions of crime and violence, our interest in these topics long predates the rise of modern media.

      For instance, newspapers in the 19th century reported on sensational murder trials, and crime fiction has been popular since the days of Edgar Allan Poe.

      So what are the cultural and psychological factors that drive our fascination with crime and killers?

      One possible explanation is that it provides a way to explore the darker side of human nature in a safe and controlled environment. By consuming true crime content, we can satisfy our curiosity about these topics without actually putting ourselves in danger. Additionally, it may allow us to feel a sense of superiority or moral superiority, by exploring the actions of those we consider to be deviant or immoral.

      Fascination with death

      As I mentioned earlier, as human beings our fascination with killers, murder and all things death related has been around for centuries.

      The paradox of violence and enjoyment dates back as long as human society and recorded history, from the prehistoric period and later Roman gladiatorial games.

      The Victorians were fascinated by death which extended to the production of a range of Memento Mori, objects designed to remind the owner of the death of a loved one and indeed, their own eventual demise. Photographs of dead relatives became an increasingly popular feature of family albums. Not entertainment as such, but their approach to violent crime was much more recreational:

      • The public would explore crime scenes before the arrival of the police following a murder.
      • This allowed them to view the gory scene in its entirety; dead bodies and all.
      • Funerals were attended out of curiosity and were quite often public events, especially if the deceased had been murdered.
      • Accused murderers would be executed and then potentially carried down through main street for all the spectators to see.
      Image credit: Lang Pioneer Museum

      In a completely morbid sense death is compelling, yet we fear it. You’d think that as we’re all so open about death –  reading about it, watching people die on TV and in movies – that the process of dying shouldn’t be a taboo topic. But, as soon as death becomes personal the discussion ends. Suddenly, it’s completely unreasonable to talk about death. A guy’s head being skewered on a spike in Last Kingdom – not a problem. Talking about your own death – no thanks.  

      The origin of murder investigation in fiction

      To bring this back to fiction, it’s perhaps no coincidence then that the first modern detective story is generally thought to be to Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Murders in the Rue Morgue” written in 1844, the Victorian era. In the story, Auguste Dupin solves the mystery of the brutal murder of two women in Paris. Poe’s Dupin isn’t a detective but he decides to investigate the murders for personal amusement. He displays many attributes which became literary conventions in later fictional detectives, including Sherlock Holmes and Hercule Poirot.

      The genre has increased in popularity ever since. A quick search on Amazon for ‘murder fiction’ brings up 100k+ results.

      Why is crime fiction so popular?

      Crime fiction usually gives us a resolution along with an insight into what makes people tick. One of the reasons crime fiction is popular is because people are fascinated by human behaviour. Sometimes we’re warmed by the actions of others and at other times horrified and appalled by it. In fiction we can safely read about the darker side of humanity, and most of us enjoy the neatness of a crime solved and a criminal brought to justice. That doesn’t always happen in real life, but crime novels usually restore balance.

      Plus, we like puzzles and piecing together the parts of the mystery. Can we solve the crime before the detective in the book?

      We grow up reading stories which follow the same pattern; the big bad wolf eventually gets his comeuppance for terrorising the three little pigs. The fact that he ends up boiled alive is a whole new subject altogether, but it demonstrates two things; firstly, the parallel between children’s and adult’s stories, and secondly that we’re exposed to violent death from an early age. Bambi broke my heart!

      Bambi. Credit: Disney
      The Three Little Pigs
      Watership Down. Credit: Everett collection/Rex

      For me, a good crime novel is always about the characters, their motivations and their relationships rather than the actual murder. Yes, I enjoy the pace and suspense, but ultimately, I want to know what makes the characters tick.

      Because a crime scene is fascinating, but the human mind is infinitely more intriguing.

      In conclusion, our fascination with crime and killers is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that can’t be reduced to any single explanation. While human nature and media sensationalism may play a role, they do not fully account for the enduring popularity of these topics or the specific appeal of true crime content. Rather, a variety of cultural and psychological factors, such as our desire for justice, our fascination with the darker aspects of human nature, and our need for narrative resolution, all contribute to our ongoing interest in crime and killers.

      Whether you’re a true crime enthusiast, a casual consumer of crime-related media, or simply curious about this enduring cultural fascination, I hope this blog post has given you some insights into the many factors that drive our interest in this topic.

      Thanks for taking the time to read this post. If you found it informative and entertaining, please consider sharing it with your friends and followers on social media. And if you have any feedback or suggestions for future topics, I’d love to hear from you in the comments below. Don’t forget to subscribe for more content and updates, or pop over to my newsletter page for more crime stuff, direct to your inbox every month.

      See you soon.

      Wendy