Spring has sprung, and the weather is in a state of flux - which means our wardrobes are too.
Days of promising, sunny starts often wind up ending in torrential downpours, making it particularly tricky to dress for the elements. What on earth do you wear when you can experience all four seasons in a single day?
The answer? A classic trench.
The coat of choice for bankers, journos, and those in the espionage sector, a trench coat instantly gives a polished, elegant look, whatever you’ve got on underneath, be it a hoodie or your office clobber.
The design - and name - can be traced back over 100 years to WWI trenches when a lighter and better ventilated overcoat was needed for soldiers to replace heavy greatcoats that were tough to move in. The trench emerged on the other side of the war a true fashion victor.
Today they’re a wardrobe staple, as essential to building looks as a great-fitting pair of jeans, floral midi or striped Breton top. Slip one on, and boom! Instant elegance and sophistication.
They work for all ages and crucially, all sizes, lending sharp, tailored structure to curves instantly.
If you wear a plus size and are looking for one coat to rule them all, a trench coat is the sort of investment buy that will see you through many springs and autumns in the years to come.
Whether your wardrobe is lacking or you’re on the hunt for a fresh version to add to your trench coat collection, we’ve found the best plus size trenches to shop right now.
And if you’re after a classic look that will stand the test of time, you’ll find some definitive designs to invest in our list too.
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Karen Millen Plus Button Detail Contrast Detail Trench Coat
Sizes: 18 - 24
Chic pieces with a military spin, Karen Millen knows how to nail formalwear. This contrast detail trench stands out from the crown with black panels layered over camel tan and vanity buttons running down the length of the sleeves.
Buy now £221.00, Karen Millen
M&S Collection Double Breasted Trench Coat with Recycled Polyester
Sizes: 6 - 22
Lighter hues like beige and tan feel more appropriate for spring. High street favourite Marks & Sparks is a master in wardrobe classics, and its double breasted trench is on point incorporating the design’s hallmarks - shoulder epaulettes, a buckle waist belt, storm flaps - with a sharper, sleeker silhouette and recycled polyester. It’s a little shorter too, finishing at the knee, giving it greater spring ensemble appeal. Also available in black and pale pink.
Buy now £69.00, M&S
Uniqlo Short Trench Coat
Sizes: XXS - XXL
Classic trenches are usually midi or longer, but contemporary leanings means shorter designs have joined the party. Uniqlo’s water-repellent version finishes at the hip, but keeps many of the trench’s OG features: double breasted with a self-tie belt and cuff ties. Think of it as trench-lite. Also available in black.
Buy now £99.90, Uniqlo
Mango Double-Button Trench
Sizes: 12 - 26
You could have your PJs on underneath a trench like Mango’s and still look smart enough to run to the shops. With a shell made of water repellent fabric and fully lined, the structured coat runs to midi length, making it easy to style for spring - and beyond. Wear with black skinny jeans and a striped knit for an easy weekend look that screams classic style.
Buy now £67.49, Simply Be
COLLUSION Plus faux leather trench coat in dark green with black details
Sizes: 16 - 30
Offering a gothic Matrix-vibe, you’ll be praying for rain when out and about in this shiny PU leather green trench – it looks even better with a few raindrops glistening on it. White contrast stitching and vintage-look buttons means you can style it up or down as the occasion calls.
Buy now £52.50, ASOS
Nasty Gal Plus Size Premium Double Layer Twill Trench
Sizes: 18 - 26
When it comes to transitional weather, it’s all about layers. Find extra warmth in the early morning fog or sunset chill with Nasty Gal’s double layer trench, made from high-quality twill fabric. The contrast collar makes the design pop while a matching belt allows you to cinch in the oversized look at the waist for a flattering hourglass shape.
Buy now £71.25, Nasty Gal
Tommy Hilfiger Monogram Transparent Trench Coat
Sizes: XXS - 3XL
One of the dominating designers of the 90s, Tommy is back to delight a whole new audience to his preppy label. The US fashion brand has transformed the trench into a Pop Art piece, with contrast piping on semi-transparent PU covered in the brand TH intertwining logo. You’ll be praying for rainy days with this number on.
Buy now, Tommy Hilfiger
