If there is any wardrobe essential capable of effortlessly navigating the trans-seasonal in-between, it has to be the trench coat. Just like the fine knits, jeans and loafers we automatically reach for when it's too cold for spring dresses and too mild for faux fur, the trench is one of the easiest items to cleverly layer up (or strip down) when need be.
And yes, I agree, there isn't necessarily anything new about a classic trench, but don't be quick to write off this staple. It is anything but boring. Glossy or matte, camel or coloured, even longline or cropped, the trench coat is still as relevant as ever, and the key to its universal appeal and sheer timelessness is its versatility. Ask any fashion editor, and I promise you, they'll say the same. In fact, I'd go as far as to say there is likely a trench in the wardrobe of all of fashion's best dressed, and if Victoria Beckham's, Alexa Chung's and Kate Moss's trench coat outfits are anything to go by, this easy-but-effective piece manages to elevate a simple outfit from good to great.
In the last 12 months, I've gotten plenty of wear out of an LVIR trench (that still remains one of my best purchases to date), and the best thing about it is the simplicity. No wacky belts and straps, no hidden extras, and no need for 1000 pockets, but if you're wondering how to repeatedly rewear the same brown, waist-cinched silhouette, I've got good news. I scoured all of my favourite stores to bring you six ways to wear a trench coat that all feel different and, most importantly, all look expensive. So keep scrolling for my best ideas on how to wear a trench coat now, and bookmark this page as a reference. You'll be seeing a lot more of the trench in the coming months.
1. HOW TO WEAR A TRENCH COAT WITH JEANS AND ANKLE BOOTS
Style Notes: Your new go-to for any event that requires a smart-casual dress code. Think brunches, dinners, office, or just a busy weekend.
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No matter your budget, H&M has some of the best trench coats on the high street right now.
When it comes to turtlenecks, I'm a firm believer that the slouchier, the better.
The perfect straight-leg jeans to wear all year 'round.
Influencers, stylists and our editors can't get enough of these understated boots.
Add a little polish to a casual look with mini hoops.
2. HOW TO WEAR A TRENCH COAT WITH A LITTLE BLACK DRESS AND HEELS
Style Notes: Who says you can't dress up a trench coat for evening, too? When your everyday coat just won't cut it, try a sleek, longline leather coat that will go with everything from a smart suit to an LBD.
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Bored of beige? Swap cotton for a glossy leather trench for a 2023 update.
No one will believe this is a high-street dress.
Fashion isn't ready to give up on its '90s baguette obsession quite yet.
If there is any outfit that can't be significantly improved by a bold, red lip, I'm yet to find it.
3. HOW TO WEAR A TRENCH COAT WITH A HOODIE AND TRAINERS
Style Notes: For the days you need to get ready in a hurry, this comfy combo tops the list. Taking tips from social media's "2X2" formula, take two dressier pieces (the trench and leather trousers) and pair them with two casual picks (in this case, the hoodie and trainers) for the perfect balance of high/low styling.
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A supremely cool ankle-length trench to elevate your weekend wardrobe.
M&S basics are just as good as its boots. And jeans. And entire latest collection.
Up the cool factor of your leather trousers by trying loose-fit straight-legs over skinnies.
Haven't found a pair of white trainers you love? Here are 24 more to help your decision.
The best-selling bag is back (for now), so act fast before it goes out of stock just as quickly as it came back in.
4. HOW TO WEAR A TRENCH COAT WITH A MIDI SKIRT AND KNEE-HIGH BOOTS
Style Notes: Is there a better transitional outfit than the trench + midi skirt + knee-high boots? I don't think so. Warm enough for chilly spells but light enough layers for a busy commute, it's the easiest way to do practical with polish.
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Chocolate brown has a habit of making any colour it's paired with feel immediately more refined.
Stocking up premium basics to start a capsule wardrobe? You'll need Commando's high-quality, superb fit for staples you can count on.
A cute midi with enough of a slit to make the most of knee-high boots.
I've been wearing these on repeat for the last six months, and anything with a wearable heel scores highly with me.
Treat yourself to some fine jewellery at a costume jewellery price.
5. HOW TO WEAR A TRENCH COAT WITH LEGGINGS AND FLAT BOOTS
Style Notes: If you're heading out, be sure to wrap up in cosy layers that make cold-weather outings feel fun. Part gorpcore, part London uniform, the leggings + zip-up jumper look is an easy option for the days you want look good while putting in the least effort possible.
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Trust Marks and Spencer to make one of the few trench coats on the market with a practical hood.
Sorry, crew-necks. We're zip-up-jumper obsessed rn.
You can't beat a pair of black leggings for comfort and style on the go.
Finding these in black and in stock is nothing short of a miracle, so consider this your sign to make the purchase you were thinking about.
The OG scarf that spawned a 1000 copies
6. HOW TO WEAR A TRENCH COAT WITH A CARDIGAN AND MARY JANES
Style Notes: Et voilà, a look straight from the streets of Paris. If you were to ask French influencers for their hero buys, there would be a bouclé jacket and a Chanel bag in the mix, but there would also undoubtedly be a trench, miniskirt, cardigan and Mary Janes on the list too. C'est chic, non?
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A vinyl, waterproof trench with a plenty of Y2K appeal.
The same cardigan you'll wear under coats in winter and over dresses in spring.
Take tips from French styling, and pair a miniskirt with socks or opaque tights and Mary Jane shoes.
After being loyal to loafers, I'm now branching out to Mary Janes as a smart shoe alternative.
Of all the bag trends that matter this year, the XXL slouchy bag is easily the best (and most practical).
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