Dressing for the uncertain in-between season limbo is never easy - especially when it comes to outerwear.
The woolen overcoat is suddenly sweltering, the light jacket is never substantial enough and there’s still a chance of perilous winter conditions (I’m including a light drizzle in ‘perilous’, by the way). The solution? The classic trench coat.
Although the styling staple is named after the treacherous channels used by soldiers in World War One, its origins date back to 1879 when its designer, Thomas Burberry, invented gabardine. A revolutionary fabric, it replaced the heavy weatherproof rubberised cotton created by Charles Mackintosh with a lightweight, easy-to-wear alternative.
In the early 1900s, the material was used to craft coats and tents for explorers expeditioning to Antarctica, but, in 1912, the British Army asked Burberry to update its existing outerwear to become battlefield-ready - and the trench was born. Fun fact, the signature D-rings were used to carry equipment and the chest flaps acted as extra protection.
Ever since, it’s been a star of the menswear fashion world. Richard Gere’s cashmere design was almost a character in its own right in American Gigolo. Withnail & I woudn’t have been complete without Richard E. Grant’s checked style. And, who could forget Humphrey Bogart‘s Burberry trench in Casablanca?
Now, luxury fashion houses and high street brands include the wardrobe staple in their collections season after season. The look-of-the-moment is oversized, with enough space for a hoodie or knitwear beneath, which gives off a laid-back, relaxed aesthetic - just look to the autumn/winter 23 runways at Bottega Veneta, Alexander McQueen and Acne Studios if you’re looking for inspo.
You can dress them up with trousers and loafers or down with Dad jeans and trainers, the good news is that, either way, they’ll elevate your outfit - and weatherproof it, too. Our advice would be to keep the colour simple so you can get optimum wear out of your new investment, whether that’s a classic camel, a dark khaki or an enduring grey, navy or black.
It’s time to give your wardrobe the transitional update it needs and invest in one of our carefully selected styles below.
Keep scrolling for the best.
Burberry Long Kensington Heritage Trench Coat
The inventor of the trench, no round-up would be complete without an option from Burberry’s expansive repetoire of coats. An investment that you’re sure to wear year after year, the Kensington is the London-based brand’s signature. Available in short, mid-length and long, our favourite is the latter which is the most in keeping with current trends.
If the price point looks a little terrifying, you could browse the likes of Depop and eBay for a pre-loved style instead.
Buy now £1790.00, Burberry
ASOS DESIGN oversized trench coat in black
Offering a relaxed fit in a classic black, as well as ticking all of the notch lapel, tie waist and double breasted boxes, every discerning gent could do with ASOS’s timeless design in their wardrobe. Especially considering it’s only £65.
Buy now £65.00, ASOS
Raey Oversized cotton-blend trench coat
If you want the oversized look but you’re on the petite end of the spectrum, MatchesFashion’s own brand Raey has a shorter silhouette that will be perfect for you.
In a dark khaki, it features all of the classic details you could ask for - and the gabardine means it’s lightweight yet weatherproof.
Buy now £795.00, MatchesFashion
Gant Oversized Trench Coat
Gant’s current outerwear offering is elite - and this trench is no exception. In a summery cream, it’s oversized, lightweight and airy - and just look at those tonal buttons.
Buy now £750.00, Gant
H&M Regular Fit Double-breasted trenchcoat
You can count on Swedish high-street hero H&M for well-priced classics - as proven by this coat. For £69.99, it boasts a contemporary cut, XL-lapels and a detachable tie belt.
Buy now £69.99, H&M
Daily Paper Black Pellam Long Jacket
Amsterdam-based streetwear label Daily Paper has a cult following - and you only need to take one look at this classic coat to see why.
Featuring a drop shoulder and lightweight quilting with a subtle all-over embroidered monogram, this trench has an understated yet traditional look that will give it longevity in your outerwear collection.
Buy now £225.00, Daily Paper
Song For The Mute Sage Green Long Double-Breasted Trench Coat
Australian label Song For The Mute works with a mixture of Japanese and Italian mills for unisex, stipped back collections that blend an East meets West aesthetic - expect exposed interiors, distinctive silhouettes and raw edges.
This trench is a case in point. Cut from a subtly striped cotton nylon blend, it has a straight hem, a storm flap and adjustable cuffs at the belt and sleeve.
Buy now £1110.00, Browns Fashion
Weekday Jeremy Oversized Trench Coat
The trend-led arm of the H&M group, Weekday’s offering is well designed and contemporary - just like this coat.
Double breasted and relaxed yet sturdy and lightweight, it’s a yes from us. Pair it with just about anything in your wardrobe to bring a sophisticated edge.
Buy now £89.00, Weekday
Massimo Dutti Double-Breasted Trench Jacket
In the market for a timeless trench that’s sure to stand the test of time? Massimo Dutti has you covered.
A go-to for the gents with a penchant for the finer things, its collections are known for luxury fabrics and sleek silhouettes - so this jacket is sure to please even the fussiest of fashionistas.
Buy now £229.00, Massimo Dutti
Wood Wood X Hancock Christopher wrap coat
A collaboration between outerwear specialist Hancock and cult-favourite Copenhagen-based Wood Wood, this trench is equal parts form and function.
You can feel the high-quality craftsmanship the moment you pull it on. From the double wrap layer to the Scottish fabrics, it’s a versatile and impeccably handmade piece that’s worth its high price tag due to its timeless, perennially chic nature.
Buy now £2050.00, Wood Wood
