In the mid-1800s, smock coats began to appear. The smoking coat was worn by men instead of (or on top of) the usual blazer or frock coat when smoking. The purpose was to protect the clothes against the smell of smoke and ash. In finer homes, guests were allowed to borrow smoking robes which are used in special smoking rooms in the home. A smoking coat was often made of a luxurious and expensive material such as silk or velvet.