As the weather warms, and we start to emerge (blinking and confused) into the hazy light of spring, it’s also time to take stock of our wardrobes.
Top of the list of things to wear? A trench coat. The beloved trench is a versatile staple that suits everybody and pairs well with pretty much everything — from a white t-shirt and jeans (the classic) to an office-ready look, or a more tailored outfit. The trench is the ultimate versatile item; no wonder searches for ‘Women's Trench Coat’ clocked up 1.2 million Google searches last year.
Even better, a good trench doesn’t have to break the bank. With Marks & Spencer launching their take on the statement trench (for less than £100, no less), what better time to take stock of the best ones currently available to shop on the high street?
Here are our picks of the places to find them.
Marks & Spencer ‘The Trench’
‘Others have tried, but M&S has delivered,’ the tagline claims for M&S’s newest trench coat. And to be fair, it’s a lovely trench: crafted from sustainably sourced cotton twill, it’s waterproof (important, and not a given with trenches), features an inside pocket and a fun flap that comes down over one shoulder for an extra unbuttoned look. Even better? It’s only £95, which, for an investment piece, is excellent value.
£95, marksandspencer.com
H&M Trench Coat
This one brings a certain indefinable Scandi cool to the classic trench design. H&M releases the same style every year (and it always sells), so they must be doing something right. This version is sleek, chic and hangs beautifully off the shoulders. It also comes in both beige and navy blue, the better to suit pretty much everybody — and every outfit.
£75, hm.com
Cos Belted Short Trench Jacket
You’ve heard of the trench coat, now get ready for… the trench jacket. This version from Cos does double duty: not only does it come in a chic cropped style (the very style trending this year, in fact), but it also features a rather contemporary funnel neck. For the truly committed, this trench actually comes with matching barrel-leg utility trousers. Why not?
£169, cos.com
Whistles Neutral Riley Trench Coat
Whistles’ take on the trench coat definitely looks luxe. This double-breasted number is slightly loose-fitting, the better to flatter the body, and comes down to just below knee-height. It’s also shower-proof, importantly, so wear it belted at the waist against the weather or wear it open to complement whichever outfit you might be wearing that day.
£199, whistles.com
Zara Flowing Wool Trench Coat
Want a cosier take on the classic style? This Zara number does the job and then some. Made from 100 per cent wool, it’s dark, loose-fitting and sleek. The hooded vent on the back adds a bit of flair to the whole thing, and we’d recommend wearing this one open and tied at the waist, the better to dial up the European vibes.
£169, zara.com
Topshop Faux Suede Trench Coat
Suede is definitely having a moment in fashion right now, so here’s an animal-friendly take on the trend that also manages to pay homage to the classic trench look. All the hallmarks are there — a double-breasted row of buttons, big belted sleeves and even epaulettes — but the whole thing is done in a lovely chocolate brown, or navy. Wear it and watch the compliments roll in.
£95, topshop.com
Nobody’s Child Camel Tie Trench Coat
As mentioned above, cropped trench coats are having something of a moment in the fashion spotlight, so make the most of it with this Nobody’s Child number. Not only does it feature an extra seam on the front, but it also comes with a very sweet (and detachable) neck scarf. It’s fun, it’s frivolous and it’s perfect for spring.
£200, nobodyschild.com
& Other Stories Belted Trench Coat
This gorgeous take on the classic trench has a boxy silhouette, a waist tie and wide lapels — plus, it comes down to the knees, with a flared hem that pairs well with a pair of baggy (or barrel) trousers. Basically, it’s a coat made for statement-making, and the chequered lining at the sleeves also adds a bit of personality to the camel-coloured outside.
£169, stories.com
