TRENCH WARFARE
The classic coat dating back to the 1850s is a failsafe option during transitional months and amid the unpredictable British summer. Sarah Young wraps up with 10 super styles
For those of us stuck in the current cycle of cold weather, looking vaguely put together inbetween seasons can prove quite the task. But fear not – that’s where the trench coat comes in.
A style that’s become the fashion crowd’s ultimate all-season staple, the trench coat’s timeless design has endured ever since its first iteration surfaced in the 1850s, and it’s not going anywhere fast. For the most part it has remained true to its heritage in classic brûlée colours with all of the coat’s the classic hallmarks, from shoulder epaulettes and waist and wrist belts to contrast button fastenings. But while this look remains the cornerstone of any well-edited wardrobe, nowadays the trench coat comes in many variations.
From deconstructed styles to high-shine finishes and pops of colour that promise to bring a touch of life to your winter wardrobe, this season the trenchcoat’s unrivalled versatility has been met with some serious high-fashion drama.
Whether you want to keep it classic or opt for something off-kilter, the choice is yours. But for ultimate style points we suggest ordering it in a size up. Another top tip here is that most of the options on our list are machine washable – unless otherwise stated – so won’t cost you a fortune in a dry cleaning.
& Other Stories Oversized Trench Coat: £155, & Other Stories
A true forever piece, the beige colour makes this option ideal for between seasons and is a hallmark of the classic trench coat. It has a double D-ring belt, wrist ties, two large front pockets and complementary buttons, and for a stylish update the coat has an oversized cut, meaning you can wear it over knitwear without feeling restricted. Wear yours to keep you dry during drizzly commutes to work and over everything from buttoned-up shirts to turtleneck sweaters. Available in sizes eight to 14.
Marks & Spencer Gingham Trench Coat: £89, Marks & Spencer
Gingham remains a key fabric for spring 2018, so if you want to be part of the crowd this stylish trench will prove a wise investment. It’s surprisingly lightweight, allows you to easily build up layers underneath it and also features a classic double-breasted button fastening, looped cuffs and a waist belt. A real statement piece, the eye-catching monochrome check would look great worn with a flash of colour underneath and a pair of flat mules. If the gingham print is a little too outré for your taste, however, fear not. The brand also stocks a number of styles in classic beige. Available in sizes six to 24.
Mango Military-Style Trench: £99.99, Mango
Forest green is one of this season’s essential colours and we can’t think of a better way to wear it than in a utility-inspired trench like this. For such a masculine style it’s a surprisingly elegant coat which looks far more expensive than it is. It has a removable belt, which can be used to give a little definition, or simply worn open. It also features a classic pointed collar, button fastening, and epaulettes on the shoulders. The coat is made from a cotton-blend fabric and has a double layer, making it slightly warmer than others on the list. Available in sizes S (10) to L (14).
Whistles Zip Detail Trench Coat: £179, Whistles
A modern twist on the classic trench design, this style features an off-centre zip detail to keep things interesting, but still retains the more traditional elements of a trench coat, such as tortoiseshell buttons and a sash waist belt. Designed with a slim fit, if you want that high-fashion look you’re going to need to size-up for extra volume and movement. The neutral hue also promises to go with almost everything in your wardrobe, be it a simple t-shirt and jeans or your favourite LBD. Available in sizes four to 16.
Jigsaw Detachable Collar Mac: £280, Jigsaw
If your wardrobe could do with a refresh why not throw in a little colour contrast for maximum impact? For this, we suggest investing in Jigsaw’s dusky pink trench which features a removable collar for a modern twist. The collar is easily removed by unfastening two buttons to reveal a super-simple crew neck, but the coat still carries classic trench details such as epaulettes and a belted waist. Unlined and shower-resistant, it is ideal for tackling unexpected rain and lightweight enough that it will see you through the warmer months, too. Also available in navy blue, from size XS (eight) to L (14).
Monki Patent Trench Coat: £50, Monki
Prepare to enter The Matrix. The fashion crowd has embraced the vinyl trench of late and so should you. While this style definitely makes a powerful statement, it is also surprisingly easy to wear. Our favourite is this purse-friendly option from Monki that has just the right amount of shine. Cut to have a slightly loose fit, it is designed with snap fastenings through the middle, slanted pockets and a matching belt to cinch in the waist, while still being lightweight, despite the tougher fabric. Coated with a glossy sheen, it’s important not to wear anything too wild underneath this one; you want the trench to do all the talking. Instead, wear yours with a simple trouser and roll neck combo. Available in sizes XS (eight) to XL (22).
River Island Dark Red RI Studio Suede Trench Coat: £325, River Island
Expertly straddling the fine sartorial line between trendy and timeless, we love this bordeaux trench. Made from 100 per cent supple suede, it’s probably best suited for the cooler months as it is slightly heavier than the lightweight jackets on the list, though it could easily be worn unbelted on warmer days. Designed with classic details including shoulder epaulettes and a tie waist, it also has more unexpected elements in the form of zip fastenings on the front and cuffs. As this coat is made from suede we suggest not wearing this option mid-downpour – but if you do get caught out be safe in the knowledge that a drizzle of rain will not wreak havoc with your statement coat. It is professional dry clean only, however. We think this would look best worn with a bohemian floral dress and over-the-knee boots.
Cos Collarless Trench Coat: £135, Cos
Forget fast fashion – this is a trench for those who lust after functional and modern wardrobe essentials. Available in a warm shade of brown, and with a fit that won’t hug each curve of your body, this coat has much simpler details than most on this list. It is void of frills and fancies, collarless, and keeps the button-fastening concealed – leading your eyes to fall on the chunky sash belt that cinches in your waist. While it will work with just about anything, wear yours to work with tailored peg trousers, a tucked-in shirt and brogues.
H&M Coat: £59.99, H&M
During the cooler months it’s easy for your wardrobe to become swamped by shades of grey, but this option from H&M is a welcome antidote. Designed in a stunning shade of forest green, it’s made from a lightweight woven fabric and is finished with a classic shawl collar and simple D-ring belt to cinch in the slightly loose fit. We also love the tie-up details on the cuffs. This would be best paired with wide-leg trousers, with your hair half-tucked into a chunky knit. Also available in dark blue, from XS (six) to XL (24).
New Look Light Brown Tie Cuff Cropped Mac: £34.99, New Look
If you’re after something with a more casual feel, this cropped version could be the answer. A contemporary take on the classic trench style, it cuts off just above the hips for a nonchalant, effortless vibe and looks great when worn with a plain white tee, straight-leg jeans and trainers at the weekend. It’s designed with a slightly oversized fit so we recommend sticking to your normal size for full effect. We also love the D-ring ties on the cuffs and how the tortoiseshell-effect buttons pop against the toffee background. Available in sizes six to 18.
The Verdict
For a piece that will stand the test of time and go with absolutely everything in your wardrobe we suggest picking up & Other Stories’ option which, while sticking to all the trademarks of the classic trench, has a real high-fashion feel to it. Mango’s Military-Style Trench is a great choice for a touch of colour, and we can’t help but lust over Marks & Spencer’s gingham offering.