Hot Wax: A Celebration of All Things Waxed

There is something about waxed fabric that is inherently British: it speaks of gamekeepers patrolling country estates, long autumn walks through damp leaves, and speeding along twisting B-roads on the back of a vintage Triumph motorbike or behind the wheel of a classic two-seater sports car.

It is a utilitarian and adaptable fabric with a rich history. Plus, with the current heritage trend in menswear still buoyant, waxed fabric is now being found everywhere. You expect if from classic English brands such as E. Tautz, but now more contemporary labels, looking to inject some authenticity into their clothing, are also turning to wax.

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In the world of waxed fabric there is only one name you need to know. Established in 1880 by the Miller family in Halifax, Yorkshire, British Millerain are the world leaders in waxed fabric. The company made its name by improving and perfecting the established seafaring practice of rubbing linseed oil into jackets and smocks to give them a wind-and-waterproof coating to keep the biting sea wind at bay.

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Today, waxed fabric is used for all sorts of products - offering you protection on a long motorbike ride or a short trip to the shops - and the British Millerain logo is a hallmark of quality.

These classic Dr Marten boots have been produced from British Millerain waxed chera canvas, giving this rugged English style an added historical reference point.

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Waxed fabric is a living, breathing cloth and it therefore needs care and attention to keep it at its best. Dr Martens supply pots of wax dressing with their waxed shoes and boots so you can top up the wax coating as and when it is necessary.

The process is simple: place the tin of wax in hot water to soften; then apply the wax with a clean cotton cloth, paying particular attention to seams and places that are prone to wear.

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This ritual of cleaning and care adds another element to waxed clothing. As with a vintage car, part of the fun comes from maintenance, creating a bond between you and it. If you look after your waxed clothing, it will repay your dedication.

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Waxed fabric isn't just for outerwear and footwear. It is a versatile cloth with as many uses as you can image. This quintessentially English flat cap from Norse Projects demonstrates this. The shared climates of England and Denmark, with their inclination towards cold and damp, have created a strong tradition of waxed fabric in both countries, which brands like E. Tautz and Norse Projects now celebrate.

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Durable and waterproof, waxed fabric is ideal for luggage, as this perfectly proportioned weekend bag from rag & bone demonstrates. Just throw this bag on the back seat and you're away.

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This season, English denim brand Fallow have also introduced wax to their superb raw denim jeans. Cut from premium Japanese denim from the Kaihara Mill, these jeans blend two historic traditions -denim and waxed fabric – to produce a unique and durable jean that is naturally suited for winter.

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Waxed fabric has that sought after blend of tradition, function, and authenticity that means it will never go out of style.

Whether you're off on a long drive or a short walk, a waxed jacket will always be appropriate. Like polar animals that grow thick coats in winter, waxed clothing is the ideal winter warmer – a natural second skin against the very worst weather.

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