One of the classic British ready-to-wear fashion houses, Aquascutum opened in the UK in 1851 as a tailor’s making men’s clothing from a special waterproof woolen fabric. They received a royal warrant from the future King Edward VII in 1897 and their pieces became part of the British Army's uniform from then on. In 1909 Aquascutum began making women’s wear, including clothing especially for sporting activities. A supporter of women's rights, the company stated, ‘Coats for women will lead to votes for women.’ They produced trench coats during WWI, and after the war, this style became popular with the general public. During the 1950s, Aquascutum began making a more fashionable line, which continues today. Aquascutum has been worn by aristocrats, political leaders, and actors, including the Prince of Wales, Prince Rainier of Monaco, Sir Winston Churchill, Humphrey Bogart, Lauren Bacall, Sophia Loren, Cary Grant, and Michael Caine, to name a few.