You're about to hear every fashion editor's least favourite T-word a lot more often, as the seasonal shift from summer to autumn is upon us, meaning our wardrobes need to undergo some changes, lest we be left shivering while clutching our basket bags and flip flops. And so I bring you the ultimate transitional investment piece: the trench coat. The one that lets you keep wearing your shorts, sandals and mini dresses well into autumn, before they finally get retired.
With its endless versatility—the trench can be shrugged over almost any outfit, trust me, I've tried—and its ability to add a nonchalant edge in an instant, it's no surprise it's been a go-to for stylish women for decades. A number of our favourite A-listers among its fans: Hailey Bieber, Kaia Gerber, Daisy Edgar-Jones and Riley Keough included.
Hailey Bieber has been spotted styling hers with classic blue jeans, a white tee, black flip flops and a baseball cap—the perfect school-run look, or an easy weekend outfit. Riley Keough proves you needn't forgo your summer dresses if you've fully shifted into bare-leg mode; simply layer with a shorter trench style. And Daisy Edgar-Jones offers inspiration for how to wear it when the weather really does cool down, ankle boots and all.
The trench is also, unofficially, the coat every fashion week editor, influencer and buyer turns to, a sea of beige cotton, storm flaps and belted designs working its way into almost every street style snap. The busiest of guests forgoing five daily outfit changes for something as practical as it is polished. And new takes on shade, shape and detailing—think belts, detachable hoods, sleeve cuts and lengths—mean investing in more than one isn't actually all that frivolous. I currently own three and get great wear out of each.
Scroll on for 11 new-season trench coats more than worthy of the investment, from luxury label buys to high street staples. If one fashion find will stand the test of time, it's a trusty trench.
Shop the Best Trench Coats
Burberry has been creating its famous trench coats since 1879, making the design synonymous not only with the luxury label but with British fashion as a whole.
The majority of trench coats come in classic beige shades, so this faded black already breaks the mould. If you tend to wear darker shades, this one should be even easier to style.
This oversized cape-like trench coat adds a layer of femininity to any outfit. Don the detachable hood for an extra interesting silhouette.
Much like the ballet flats and slogan tees, this double belted trench coat is a Ganni staple. You'll struggle not to spy at least one in the street style snaps of any major fashion week.
This earthy tone has been a key element of both the Autumn/Winter and Spring/Summer Saint Laurent runways. In trench coat form, it feels extra fitting.
For the ultra-minimalists, I bring to you a trench coat with concealed buttons, taking the pared-back look to the extreme—save for a buckle closure at the collar.
British brand Rejina Pyo is one of my best-kept secrets. Picture small runs of well-made staples with a twist, like this balloon sleeve chocolate trench.
With a detachable scarf detail, this trench doubles as both a statement-making style and an everyday staple.
If you already have a cotton trench coat (or three) in your collection, a suede style might just be the design that's missing. Not only does it add a tougher edge to any outfit, it also offers extra warmth.
Louise Trotter's Bottega Veneta broke the internet with this clever Intrecciato leather collar design. It's a detail—small, but instantly striking—that places this piece firmly in if-you-know-you-know territory.
Róhe excels at well-made wardrobe staples and this trench coat is a great example of why, with a thick cotton-poly-wool blend which lends a slight stretch, double-breasted design, belted cuffs and classic storm flap.
