How to style a trench coat: 7 trench coat outfits to inspire your winter looks
These styling formulas will help you understand how to style a trench coat with outfits inspired by street stylers
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Once you've nailed how to style a trench coat, you'll never be stuck for outfit inspiration again. When it comes to forever pieces, none are as timeless as a trench coat, it's the look you can reach for time and time again.
If you're wondering how to style a trench coat, the answer is pretty much with anything and everything in your closet. The beauty of a trench is that it can be dressed up for the day or down for the evening, and works equally well for formal office environments or for heading out with friends. Wearable all year, size up and you've got enough room to slip a cashmere sweater on, that will ensure you and your trench coat can beat the winter chill. Often also one of the best waterproof jackets, the best trench coats, are ideal in spring and fall too, when the weather is in that awkward in-between stage.
When it comes to silhouette, key details tend to be a double-breasted front, wide lapels, storm flaps, and a belted waist. Trench coats are normally relatively lightweight compared to the best wool coats, but they are sturdy enough to hold their structure. More often than not, trench coats are crafted from cotton, making them breathable and relatively lightweight. They were initially made for military purposes in the early 1900s, but have since become a style staple worn by the likes of Princess Diana and Meryl Streep over the years. They’ve been re-imagined on countless runways, and the Burberry trench coat remains one of fashion’s most coveted pieces. So, if you need a little inspiration on how to wear this timeless piece, we’ve got everything you need…
How to style a trench coat: 7 ways to wear this timeless outerwear
How to style a trench coat over a dress
Trench coats and the best dresses work really well together, but you do need to make some considerations when it comes to the cut of each in order to nail how to style a trench coat. If your trench coat is very A-line, and flares out from the waist, this can look quite twee and ultra-feminine when worn over a dress with a wide skirt, which if you're looking for more of a '50s feel is ideal. If you want it to feel more modern, pair an A-line hemmed trench coat with a narrower, more form-fitting dress. The length matters too. If you’re wearing a mini dress, then a shorter-length trench is fine, but something that hits mid-thigh when your dress continues towards your ankles can appear unbalanced. In general, a long, straight-cut trench coat is the best shape for teaming with dresses.
A styling tip… If you’re deciding what to wear over a dress that’s brightly colored, top it with a trench in a neutral like beige or camel so that the two can work together, instead of fighting for attention.
Fashion editor recommends…
RRP: $250 / £150 | A classic trench if ever we saw one. The oversized collar and storm flaps add extra detail without stealing focus. We like that it’s unlined too, giving you additional layering potential for all seasons and has handy flap covered pockets too.
RRP: $90 / £79 | This bold peacock print is sure to turn heads but it’s the plisse fabric that’s really won us over. Lightweight and beautifully fluid, it hangs really nicely without clinging. One of the best Christmas dress options the vibrant print will light up any room.
RRP: $165 / £130 | Some of the best white trainers around, this sleek pair will look just as good with dresses as they will with trousers and jeans. Creating more ethical and sustainable footwear, it's no surprise Veja has a legion of celebrity and royal fans.
2. How to style a trench coat with jeans
The addition of a trench coat is a straightforward way to make denim pieces feel more dressed up. The structured shape is the perfect antidote to even your slouchiest, worn-out, lightest-washed denim, making it a great option for how to style baggy jeans. There are no hard-and-fast rules when it comes to color, as denim can be worn with trench coats in any hue. Take inspiration from the street style set and wear your trench open so you can see all of your jean-based outfits beneath, or button and belt so just a little of your best jeans peek out the bottom. A crisp white shirt and box-fresh trainers make for a spot-on spring look and can be swapped for knee-high boots (with skinny or straight-leg jeans) and a roll neck in cooler climes.
A styling tip… The lighter your denim, the more relaxed it will feel. Stick to darker shades for smarter occasions.
Fashion editor recommends…
RRP: $69.90 / £55.99 | Not quite navy, this inky blue shade is absolutely gorgeous. The adjustable cuffs and belt mean you can tweak the fit, to give the level of waist definition you want, helping to ensure the oversized shape doesn’t swamp smaller frames.
RRP: $115 / £99 | Red and pink is one of the most underrated color combinations. The bonus crimson stripe adds extra joy to this otherwise plain pink sweater, making it feel really modern in the process. Where relaxed or half tuck it into a waistband.
RRP: $81 / £69 | Arket jeans are seriously good quality. These straight-legged are made from a blend of 76% organic and 20% recycled cotton with a dash of elastane for comfort and stretch. The cropped finish adds a leg-lengthening finish and a modern cut.
3. How to style a trench coat for work
Thanks to the military connotations and structured shape, trench coats are the perfect outerwear choice for work. They earn extra brownie points if you have a busy commute on public transport too, as the cotton fabric won’t leave you feeling as hot and flustered as being all wrapped up in wool. As most offices require some sort of dress code, this is the time to play it safe with your trench rather than pushing the sartorial boundaries. Choose one that’s true to size, rather than oversized, and complement the sharp cut with tailored shirts and trousers. Again, beige and camel are the obvious choices, while forest green will inject a spot of color to liven up an otherwise monochrome look.
A styling tip… For added polish and to instantly make any coat look more expensive, swap self-fabric belts for one of the best designer belts with a statement buckle.
Fashion editor recommends…
RRP: $135 / £75 | A soggy commute is the worst way to start the day, so this trench is a smart investment to keep you dry as well as chic. The detachable hood is really handy and means you won’t need an umbrella and as part of the brand's Stormwear line, it has water-repellant properties for a drier wear.
RRP: $120 / £85 | A good white blouse will never date. We love the broderie Anglaise detail across the chest and stand collar for a feminine and vintage feel, as well as the ever-so-slightly bloused sleeves for a touch of added drama. Wear with skirts or pants, or slip under a sleeveless dress for stylish arm coverage.
RRP: $117 / £99 | A more casual take on traditional workwear, the wide-leg shape and statement side stripe make these trousers feel suitably fashion-forward and smart but still a little bit sporty. Available in short, regular, or long lengths to help you find a spot-on fit. These checked pants will pair well with ankle boots.
4. How to style a trench coat for the weekend
We don’t know about you, but when it comes to getting dressed for a chilled Saturday or Sunday, comfort is always our top priority. Think a pair of the warmest leggings, oversized t-shirts, and slouchy knits for a laid-back winter outfit. On paper, it would seem that a trench coat wouldn’t fit the bill for this kind of brief, but actually, it’s the perfect piece to pull these casual pieces together. Plus, the longer length of a trench will mean you can get away with wearing leggings with a shorter top without the fear of a see-through-fabric-related faux-pas. Win-win.
A styling tip… Want to add interest to your trench? Sling a knit over your shoulders or layer up with a fuzzy printed scarf.
Fashion editor recommends…
RRP: $218 / £219 | Not keen on classic camel or beige? This blue and brown houndstooth trench is a great compromise. The gathered fabric at the back creates a feminine, fluted silhouette. While the checked fabric adds interest while remaining neutral.
RRP: $129 / £95 | A striped roll neck jumper is a capsule wardrobe staple you’ll get plenty of wear out of. The oversized shape gives this one a relaxed feel and makes it perfect for teaming with your best leggings. The stripe print renders it timeless.
RRP: $99.99 / £95 | The 327 is one of New Balance’s most popular styles, having taken its inspiration from '70s running shoes. The stacked sole gives this pair extra height, and we love the fuzzy suede detailing. The neutral palette ensures it goes with everything.
5. How to style a trench coat for the evening
When it comes to how to style a trench coat for the evening, trade in your trusty cotton design for something that feels a little more luxe. The faux leather trench has been having a moment for the past few seasons and remains popular this year. Choose a high-shine fabric to keep it more modern than Matrix, and don’t feel limited to classic black. There are lots of lovely versions available this season, at all price points, with deep reds and rusty browns popular too. If pleather feels too daring, consider a wool, silk or brocade trench or simply one in a brighter, more exciting hue instead.
A styling tip… Feel self-conscious in a shorter hemline? Adding a longline trench in the mix will look instantly glam and help you feel more confident.
Fashion editor recommends…
RRP: $119 / £79.99 | Letting the glossy fabric take center stage, the rest of this trench is pared back and understated, with a slim lapel collar and a simple tie waist. The coat itself is particularly long so it might not be suitable for petite silhouettes.
RRP: $129 / £95 | The best Christmas party dresses don’t have to be black, liven up your evening out look with this gorgeous pop of purple. The collar balances out the shorter hemline (although you can add tights) while the necktie gives it a retro feel.
RRP: $316 / £250 | One of the best knee-high boots for day or night, the stacked Cuban heel gives this suede pair the perfect amount of height. Duo Boots’s USP is a wide range of calf sizes, with eight to choose from, so a great fit is pretty much a given.
6. How to style a trench coat for the fall/winter
We might be in the depths of winter, but the temperatures outside don’t always reflect the time of year. If it’s too warm to be fully snuggled up in your beloved puffer jacket then learning how to style a trench coat will see you through fall outfit ideas and into the winter season. The wide lapels create the perfect space for a roll-neck sweater, creating a look that’s both cozy and elegant. Longline trenches are your best bet for this time of year, as they give extra coverage and protection, and will look especially chic when belted and worn with any of this winter's boot trends. A trench that’s too short won’t trap enough heat to keep you warm, so save these styles for spring or early fall.
A styling tip… Coordinate the rest of your outfit with the tones of your trench for a synergistic look.
Fashion editor recommends…
RRP: $299 / £199 | Instead of wide lapels, this has a smaller, neater collar that will suit petite frames. The fit is relatively form-fitting, adding more of a tailored element to the look. Pair with straight fit trousers to reflect the neat frame of the coat.
RRP: $79.99 / £49.99 | Learning how to style leather pants with a trench coat will help to give a rockier edge to this classic look. We love the straight-leg shape and the moc croc gives extra texture, making for an interesting alternative to the usually smooth fabric.
RRP: $58 / £49 | A good scarf has the potential to change the feel of an entire outfit. Green and pink are the perfect combo for a playful take on traditional checks. Both popular colors for the season, they will pair well with neutral hues for a burst of freshness.
7. How to style a trench coat for spring/summer
It’s a rare occasion when at least one layer isn’t required as you shift from a winter wardrobe into a spring one. Enter (yet again) the trench coat. Warmer weather calls for more fluid shapes and even lighter fabrics (anything lined will likely be too warm) for a throw-on-and-go layering piece - look for unlined versions for a cooler wear. There’s something very fresh about the juxtaposition of shorts with a trench coat, just wear it with closed-in shoes like ankle boots, loafers, or trainers instead of sandals. Opt for a softer shade of trench coat, as it will feel more warm-weather appropriate.
A styling tip… Instead of buttoning and belting up, keep your trench open to show off your spring and summer outfits. You can always tie the belt around the back to nip your waist in and keep the look neat.
Fashion editor recommends…
RRP: $100 / £85 | A nice way to signify the change in seasons is to switch up the shade of your trench. This dusty green shade will go with everything, from denim to other seasonal pastels.
RRP: $35 / £29.90 | No one does knitwear quite like Uniqlo. Pink is our top color pick for this season and into the fashion trends 2023, but this knit is also available in five other shades.
Are trench coats in style for 2022?
Trench coats are one of those statement pieces that never go out of style. The finer details might change, such as the fabric or most popular colorways, but the shape always endures. Vetements showed check and tartan trench coats as part of its Haute Couture Fall/Winter collection 2022/2023 at Paris Fashion Week, while Christian Dior opted for opulent brocade. Both were longline, worn in a wrap style, and tied at the waist - making them the focal point of the outfit.
To play it safe, and ensure your investment lasts season after season, we’d recommend investing in a classic cut trench coat in brown or beige. You could choose navy or black too, but these are slightly less traditional. Extra interest or detailing, like panels of prints, additional pleats, and statement lapels all make for a striking look but go too fashion-forward and it’ll just mean your trench coat dates faster.
Do trench coats go with everything?
One of the best things about trench coats is that they go with just about everything in your wardrobe. This is especially true if you stick to the traditional color of light beige, as this neutral shade won’t jar against even the boldest brights or busiest of prints. The shape comes into it too, and the choice of wearing undone or buttoned up means you can switch up the way you wear it depending on what you’re wearing beneath. For example, wearing your trench buttoned and belted over a chunky knit would distort your frame, while wearing it open, with the belt tied at the back would just show off your jumper and still nip you in, in the middle.
Ultimately, trench coats are super versatile and will look just as good worn with a slinky mini dress and heels as with a knitted tracksuit bottom and jumper. Which is why they're one of the best types of coats you can own.
Jess Beech is an experienced fashion and beauty editor, with more than eight years experience in the publishing industry. She has written for woman&home, GoodtoKnow, Now, Woman, Woman’s Weekly, Woman’s Own and Chat, and is a former Deputy Fashion & Beauty Editor at Future PLC. A beauty obsessive, Jess has tried everything from cryotherapy to chemical peels (minus the Samantha in Sex and The City-worthy redness) and interviewed experts including Jo Malone and Trinny Woodall.
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