Definition & Meaning of "coatee"

What is a "coatee"?

A coatee is a type of short jacket or coat that was popular during the early 19th century in Europe and North America. It was typically made of wool and featured a double-breasted front with a row of buttons. The coat also had tails that extended to the back and were often trimmed with decorative fringe or braiding. The coatee was originally worn by military officers as part of their dress uniform, but later became fashionable for civilian men as well. In the United States, the coatee was commonly worn during the Civil War as part of the Union Army uniform. While the style of the coatee has evolved over time, it remains a symbol of early 19th-century fashion and military dress.