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
Once you've nailed how to style a trench coat, you'll never be stuck for outfit inspiration again. The look you can reach for time and time again, no other piece in your wardrobe is quite as timeless.
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. Often serving as one of the best waterproof jackets, the best trench coats are ideal in spring and autumn 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. 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 coloured, 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: £179 | A classic trench if ever we saw one. The oversized collar and belt detail add that little something extra without taking away from the timeless design. Made from linen and cotton, it is light and breathable too.
RRP: £125 | With a neutral trench you can afford to have some fun with prints in the rest of your look, so why not go bold with a statement pattern? This midi cotton shirt dress is the perfect spring piece to turn heads whilst keeping you comfortable.
RRP: £140 | 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 - and take inspiration from how to wear a beanie to add some extra warmth to the look.
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A styling tip… The lighter your denim, the more relaxed it will feel. Stick to darker shades for smarter occasions.
Fashion editor recommends…
RRP: £125 | One of the best black coats for timeless sophistication, this classic trench silhouette is made even more versatile thanks to the dark hue. If you want to avoid any marks or stains on your coat, this is the trench to opt for - and it pairs perfectly with denim.
RRP: £89 | A comfortable, slouchy knit doesn't have to be boring. With a stylish cross-front design and ribbed texture, this is a jumper that will elevate any outfit in an instant, and can be paired with any denim hue you choose.
RRP: £77 | Arket jeans are seriously good quality. This straight-legged pair is made from 99% cotton with a dash of elastane for comfort and stretch. The cropped finish adds a leg-lengthening finish and a modern cut that will team well with the best black boots.
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 the best wool coats. 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 colour 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: £79 | Want something a little different from classic beige? This muted green hue is just as versatile but a little more eye-catching if you want to add some more colour to your seasonal wardrobe. With a chunky belt detail and sharp collar, it is the ideal cut for smarter occasions.
RRP: £65 | A good white blouse will never date, especially in a light linen. We love the ruched detail across the 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 trosuers, or slip under a sleeveless dress for stylish arm coverage.
RRP: £119 | Available in short, regular, and long leg lengths, this is a pair of smart work trousers that everyone needs in their wardrobe. With a contrast waistband and pleat detailing, they are equal parts sleek and stand-out - and they will contrast perfectly with a light-hued trench.
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 idea. 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: £150 | Not keen on classic camel or beige? This cream and brown printed trench is a great compromise. The checked fabric adds interest while remaining neutral, whilst the slightly oversized sleeves create a unique fashion-forward silhouette.
RRP: £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.
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 for a hit of dopamine dressing and rusty browns remain 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: £79.99 | This is a trench coat that will bring a healthy dose of drama to any outfit. In an oversized fit and with all the classic trench details, this is a jacket that is made for nights out. But be aware of the baggy fit - it may not be suitable for petites.
RRP: £120 | A satin mini dress will never date and we love how this vintage-style neckline will pop out from under the trench coat. With flattering waist ruching and in a soft blue hue that will suit all skin tones, this is an investment you will wear time and time again.
RRP: £250 | Some 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 autumn 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 as part of brown boot outfit ideas. 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: £199 | If you always find trench coats to be that bit too long on you, this petite version will be ideal. In a rich camel colour that will add some warmth to your winter capsule wardrobe, it is ideal for teaming with your best petite jeans.
RRP: £45.99 | Learning how to style leather trousers with a trench coat will help to give a rockier edge to this classic look. We love the straight-leg shape and the elasticated tie waistband will ensure you stay comfortable no matter what the day throws at you.
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, and play into the spring/summer fashion colour trends 2024.
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: £175 | We expect trenches will become a huge denim trend for 2024, so get ahead of the crowd now. Denim jackets are brilliant for springtime, but why not make the look even more luxurious by opting for a trench cut rather than a standard button-up?
RRP: £14.90 | Uniqlo's AIRism range is designed to keep you comfortable and cool, so this is a must-have for spring. The draped silhouette sets this apart from your standard tees and the light grey colour will pair with any of the spring/summer fashion trends 2024.
RRP: £17.99 | Thanks to the midi length and delicate print, this skirt works for all seasons. Wear with tan boots in the winter, swapping for a pair of leather sliders in the summer. We love the flattering side slit that will also ensure your movement isn't restricted, making it a great pick for a capsule wardrobe for travel.
Are trench coats in style for 2024?
"Trench coats are always a good investment and for 2024, the classic trench coat is once again in style," says our fashion editor Rivkie Baum. "In part thanks to its elegant timelessness and due to it being the backbone of a Burberry collection, when you buy a trench coat you buy into fashion history and you can pretty much rest assured that your outerwear piece will be your go-to come spring and autumn month," she says.
"While you can opt for colour or print, to ensure your trench coat lasts from one season to the next I recommend opting for a neutral colourway such as black, beige or navy, as these three hues, combined with a classic trench silhouette, will never go out of style."
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 colour of light beige, as this neutral shade won’t jar against even the boldest brights or busiest of prints. However, "styling these longer coats can feel awkward after styling shorter coats for so many years," says outerwear designer Liz Williams. To make the process simple, she recommends you "add a colour pop either on top or with trousers to help break up the long line of the coat."
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.
Our experts:
With over fifteen years' experience, Rivkie is an accomplished fashion editor, writer and stylist. Covering international fashion weeks, and styling photoshoots all over the world, Rivkie loves translating the trends in an accessible way to make fashion available for all budgets.
Outerwear Designer at The Checkroom, Liz Williams creates “Classic Inspired Statement Coats for Modern Women.” Liz is a former Instructor of Fashion Design at Columbia College in Chicago, where she educated students in fashion design, patternmaking, sewing, and fabric manipulation.
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.
- Amelia YeomansSenior writer
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