As soon as the weather turns, in quintessential British fashion, trench coats make a solid return to our transitional wardrobe and who can blame us? This classic style is iconic.
Trench coats were first invented for British Army officers in the First World War as a lighter, ventilated and more comfortable overcoat to heavy greatcoats. It was created by Burberry who remains the most known and most coveted among trench wearers the world over (lined with the brand’s signature check, of course). Shortly after, it was popularised by film stars like Humphrey Bogart, Peter Sellers and Brigitte Bardot - emerging on the other side of the war a fashion victor.
From a military-issued essential to wardrobe staple, it’s a style that has been reimagined time and time again, season after season throughout the decades - and there is great reason for their appeal.
The lightweight overcoats are a staple and can be dressed up or dressed down. They are universally flattering and can be worn by any man, woman, child and furry friend to add instant sophistication.
Part of the beauty of a trench coat is that it can be worn when the weather is slightly colder, over a thick jumper or cardigan, or when it’s warmer over a mid-week midi dress or a pair of jeans and a tank top. Trench coats are like the jeans of the coat world, it can be paired with anything, instantly upgrading whatever you have on underneath.
Thanks to a childhood diet of espionage and adventure films, a trench manages to make you look spy-like and enigmatic all at once – and if we’re honest, isn’t that all we want from our outerwear?
While there have been different versions of it since its inception, the traditional look still stands and it’s as chic as ever. Whether it’s double breasted, cropped or leather, there is a trench coat to suit everyone’s taste.
If your wardrobe is lacking or you’re on the hunt for a fresh version to add to your trench coat collection, we’ve gathered an elite group of the best trenches to shop right now.
Burberry Classic Trench The Chelsea
There should be no run down of the very best trench coats without the one who started it all and still to this day reigns supreme. Described as a slim fit, Burberry offers this extremely flattering fit with a body skimming cut, and of course the classic nipped in waistline. It features narrow shoulders with the woven in signature Burberry gabardine and is belted to accentuate your silhouette.
Buy now £16500.00, Burberry
ASOS Design Lip Sleeved Trench
The trusty e-tailer ASOS has done it again with this beautiful trench. This is less structured than the Burberry trench for a more relaxed fit which means it can be worn over all manner of ensembles - be it a a well-loved hoodie or full suit. It has a two-button fastening and a double breasted style for that quintessential trench look, but also features big pockets, a spread collar and a tie waist.
Buy now £75.00, ASOS
Aquascutum Timbs Double Breasted Trench In Stone
Few people know that when Thomas Burberry released his take on the trench coat, so did Aquascutum. This is a reimagined version of the classic and is slightly shorter so if you’re not ready for the full ankle-length spy-worthy look, this should be your go to. It has military inspired stitching, a double layered collar and a leather covered buckle. In this cool toned stone colour, it goes with everything.
Buy now £587.00, Aquascutum
Urban Outfitters Faux Leather Trench Coat
Urban Outfitters is offering a fresh autumnal take on the traditional trench coat. It has the classic trench staple of the spread collar but the PU fabric makes it slightly more edgy. One big difference is that this doesn’t have a tie waist but it does cinch in.
Buy now £40.00, Urban Outfitters
Cos Belted Trench Coat
This Cos trench coat is constructed with cotton with a bit of stretch so you can wear over thick jumpers when the weather is a slightly colder. It has the key trench features; oversized collar, belt, storm flap, epaulettes and a draped panel. This is a timeless example with a contemporary twist.
Buy now £150.00, Cos
Ted Baker Maave Double Faced Light Trench Coat
Ted Baker’s trench coat has a super timeless and elegant silhouette but in a less than typical light brown hue. Fashion and function in one, it’s waterproof so will keep you protected from the elements all year round. There’s also tabbed cuffs which gives a slight ballooned sleeve, an open collar, button closure, two pockets and lapels. Chic.
Buy now £245.00, Ted Baker
Because Of Alice Leather Belted Trench Coat
Have you ever seen such a stunning leather trench coat? We’re obsessed. This oversized trench has a double-breasted military style, made with vegan leather. It has an exaggerated lapel, side pockets, a double buttoned vent and a detachable obi wrap belt. This is slightly thicker so it’ll keep you cosy through the British weather.
Buy now £125.00, Because Of Alice
Finery Cassidy Trench Coat Navy
The universal appeal of navy should not be understated. A slightly longer trench coat, it will protect you from any crazy climes, but it also features a neat neckline for a more corporate look. It has a tie waist too. A sharp look, this is a cut above the rest.
Buy now £149.00, M&S
& Other Stories Double Breasted Trench Coat
There is something so chic about this classic silhouette from & Other Stories. It’s slim fitting and double breasted which gives a fashion-forward silhouette. One of the stand-out features is the beautiful belt which can be tied or buckled. It’s fully lined and has duo welt pockets to protect your possessions. This trench also comes in a blue checked print which is perfect for those wanting a bit of a change.
Buy now £135.00, & Other Stories
Arket Short Trench Coat
For the fashion girls among us, this fresh short take on the classic trench coat could be perfect. It’s a twill woven blend of linen and cotton and has a more voluminous silhouette as opposed to the standard hourglass one. It does still have classic details including the shoulder epaulettes, sleeve straps, a rain guard, a gun welt and two welt pockets at the front.
Buy now £135.00, Arket
