Close your eyes for a second and imagine that it's a crisp fall day. The breeze is billowing, and the leaves have begun to change. Can you envision what items from your closet you're wearing on this idyllic fall day? Let's be honest—the best part of the fantasy of fall is the fashion. Even if you don't spend time daydreaming about all the different pieces you will wear when temperatures cool down, reality will always come into the picture. You may not dream about outerwear, but there comes a day when you'll need to wear it to get through the day. That, my friends, is when trench coats enter the chat. While this staple may not seem as exciting as other seasonal staples (e.g., a cozy sweater or cool boots), the truth is that nothing is more fall coded than a trench. It's one of the few transitional items that work for every season, fit almost every occasion, and can be worn in every way imaginable. But the timeless nature of the trench doesn't necessarily mean that it's the item that tickles everyone's fancy. For some, the sportswear staple is simply "boring" compared to other outerwear trends.
But make no mistake—trench coats can be trend-forward if you look for versions with contemporary elements such as unexpected colors, luxe textiles, unique necklines, and cropped hemlines. We'd argue that the latter is the best way to make this everyday item a bit more exciting, as cropped trenches transform this classic silhouette into something way cooler. Don't believe us? To show why cropped trench coats are one of the most creative ways to embrace this staple, we turned to the style set and shopping section for inspiration.
Ahead, you'll find a few examples of how to wear a cropped trench coat, proving how dreamy it can genuinely be (with the proper styling). Plus, we rounded up the 30 best cropped trench coats for women based on quality, versatility, brand recognition, price point, and recent trends, should you feel inspired to indulge. If these cropped jackets don't make your fall fantasies feel real, we're not sure what else can do the trick.
The water-repellent cotton makes this cropped option perfect for cold fall days.
Leave it to Khaite to make the coolest cropped trench coat to date.
The contrasting belt makes this classic staple feel a bit cooler.
When it comes to trench coats, you can't go wrong with investing in one from Burberry.
The oversize fit of this jacket will have you feeling fresher than a crisp fall day.
Pocket lovers, rejoice!
It doesn't get more polished than a white pleated trench coat.
The charcoal hue makes the cropped silhouette even chicer.
The styling possibilites are truly endless with this cropped coat.
Don't be afraid to opt for a trench in a different color, as it will make the cropped cut standout even further.
Trust us—you'll wear this trench coat for years to come.
The funnel neckline make this cropped trench even more trend-forward.
ICYMI, capes are making a major comeback.
If you're searching for a more sustainably produced option, look no further than this cropped trench made from wood pulp.
Everyone loves a tan trench coat, but black options deserve a round of applause too!
Rokh's deconstructed trench coats are beloved among the style set.
Now, here's a statement coat.
You can wear this boxier cropped trench to work or to run errands on the weekend.
The storm flap will ensure that this cropped jacket is just as functional for rainy days as any other coat.
The slightly cocoon-shaped sleeves make this classic item feel contemporary.
Denim trench coats? We're down for it.
Who said all cropped trench coats needed to be made from cotton? Leather options are just as chic.
Make no mistake—we'll be re-creating the styling of this trench ASAP.
The textile of this trench transforms it from a typical sportswear jacket to an elevated take on suiting.
Chloé's cropped trench coats are shaping up to be the season's buzziest outerwear pieces.
Navy can make even the most "simple" pieces look 10 times more expensive.
The bow detail is everything.
Everything about this trench coat is perfection—from the affordable price point to the pretty green color to the cropped hemline.
It doesn't get more fall-coded than a cropped leather trench coat.
You can't beat this price point!
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