Rains co-founders Daniel Brix and Philip Lotko met each other while studying at Denmark’s TEKO Design School. Having both grown up in cities famed for their textiles, the two creatives soon realized that they shared a desire to found a label that was firmly rooted in the Danish tradition, which Lotko describes as “focusing on and elevating functional design”. In 2012 Rains was born and their dream became a reality.

The brand is named after Denmark’s notoriously inclement weather (the country averages 170 days of rain a year) and so it should come as no surprise that the label’s signature piece is – you guessed it – the raincoat. However, the brand is about a lot more than just keeping dry. “With every collection, we set out to challenge traditional notions of rainwear and prove that even in wet weather there’s an opportunity to display your personal style,” says co-founder Lotko.

Since the day they set out, Rains’ ultimate aim has been to put a contemporary spin on the traditional rubber raincoat. “We’re always searching for new ways to reinterpret this classic piece,” says Lotko, “constantly pushing the boundaries to see how we can combine function and fashion to create pieces that feel timeless but also fresh and exciting.” It’s no mean feat, but the brand’s explosive growth over the past six years is proof that they’re nailing it.

“Rains is a brand for the people,” says Lotko, who maintains that the brand’s “clean lines and minimal silhouettes are one of their biggest strengths,” and have helped them appeal to everyone from teenagers to women in their seventies. “We aim to have something for everyone,” he says, and that includes of-the-moment patent and transparent pieces, muted tones and eye-popping colors. Decisions, decisions…

Championed by everyone from photographer Natalie Winter to fashion consultant and street-style star Caroline Daur, Rains has quickly amassed a cult following thanks to its endlessly wearable yet fashion-forward pieces. However, the brand’s best ambassador is Danish style icon, and co-founder Philip Lotko’s wife, Pernille Teisbaek – a quick scroll through her Instagram is a foolproof guide on how to style your raincoat.