Despite being over a century old, trench coats are still in style for both men and women. This timeless piece of clothing is perfect to wear in between seasons because the outerwear isn’t too heavy or too light. This ultra-functional item is also one of the most popular winter coats to wear for braving the elements. In addition, the trench coat’s enduring appeal in the fashion world lies in its versatility – trench coats can be easily layered over almost any look while polishing up the ensemble. From the luxe leather trench to the checkered quilted lining design to the denim single-breasted trench, many iterations have emerged over the years so you can find a trench coat that suits your sartorial preference and occasion.
If you want to up your fashion game, simply invest in this popular outerwear. Here’s everything you need to know about the iconic trench coat and how to wear it stylishly.
The traditional trench coat is made of water-resistant fabric and typically designed with built-in lining, a double-breasted front, storm flap, deep pockets and large buttons. It usually falls to mid-calf or just-below-the-knee length. The trench coat may also have a wide notched lapel, belted cuffs and a removable waist belt, and it commonly comes in beige or khaki color.
As many fashion designers and retailers have updated the design throughout the years, there are many new styles of trench coats in all colors, materials and size ranges. For example, there are faux leather, velvet, corduroy and denim versions. Modern trench coats can be reworked in different patterns and cuts, like a plaid trench coat, hooded trench coat, cropped trench jacket or two-toned design.
Trench coats are designed to keep the wearer dry and comfortable in inclement weather, but they are also stylish and practical. The long length protects your clothing from getting wet or dirty, and the many pockets are perfect for storing essentials like your phone, wallet and keys. They are also easy to maintain; simply dry clean them!
While the trench coat is now a fashion staple, it was originally designed for military wear. The first trench coats were created for British soldiers during World War I. The weather conditions in the trenches were often wet and muddy, so the soldiers needed a coat that would keep them dry and warm.
The early designs of trench coats were made from waterproof textiles like rubberized cotton. However, these waterproof trench coats were heavy and uncomfortable to wear, so tailors experimented with more breathable yet still weatherproof fabrics until they found the perfect combination of style and function.
In 1853, British clothing manufacturer Aquascutum created lighter and more comfortable trench coats made from a water-resistant wool blend fabric. Burberry followed suit in 1879 by inventing the gabardine trench coat that was not only waterproof but lightweight.
Both companies claim to have invented the wool trench coats we know today. Regardless of which company made them first, trench coats have evolved past their use in the war, becoming wardrobe staples in the years to come.
Today, many luxury fashion brands have trench coats as part of their collections including Burberry, Bottega Veneta and London Fog. High-street brands like Acne Studios, Ted Baker and Eddie Bauer and e-commerce retailers like YesStyle all sell these wardrobe staples as well.
Several features are characteristic of a classic, double breasted trench coat. These include:
Waterproof fabric: Although modern trench coats may be made of all kinds of natural or synthetic textiles, you can still find designs made of water-resistant or waterproof materials like gabardine wool blend and faux leather. The waterproof trench coat, like the iconic military trench coat, keeps the wearer dry in wet weather.
Lining: Most trench coats have a built-in lining made of a different material than the outer shell. An insulated trench coat helps to keep the wearer warm and protects the coat from wear and tear.
Large buttons: The large buttons at the front of a trench coat are in keeping with the original trench design. They also help to block the wind, and make it easier to put on and take off the coat.
Wide lapels: The wide lapels on a trench coat are not only details commonly associated with this coat but help to protect the wearer's neck from the wind and rain.
Belt: A coat with belt (including a belt buckle) helps cinch the waist for a more flattering shape. It can also be used to keep the coat closed in windy weather.
Sleeve straps: You can still find trench coats featuring details in line with the original military coat such as sleeve straps that allow the wearer to tighten the cuffs to keep the wind and other elements out.
Today, there are many iterations of the trench coat available such as the single breasted trench, hooded trench, cropped trench, tie-waist style and more.
The single breasted trench, one of the most popular styles, has a row of buttons down the front when done up, giving a streamlined and elegant look. This type of coat can be fashioned in various silhouettes, from slit fit styles to more relaxed and slouchy versions.
Other contemporary styles include the hooded trench for added warmth and functionality. The outerwear is made to protect against bad weather conditions, and a removable hood helps you to do just that with style. The hood style can add a fashion statement to your look too. An oversized hood contributes to a cape-like silhouette while a rain jacket style hood is more sporty looking.
The trench coat is all about the details − the buttons, epaulettes, lapels and belted waist – but when reworked, they can evoke different aesthetics. A belted trench coat can come with bold belt buckle details for fashion-forward vibes. Alternatively, choose a coat with a sash-style tie waist that can be fastened bow style for a feminine and figure-flattering impression. A waist tie that comes in a different color than the rest of the trench coat also adds extra visual interest.
Today, you can find women's trench coats to suit any season, and it can be styled in various ways. Bear in mind that due to the item’s long-line silhouette and distinctive details, the outerwear can easily visually dominate the rest of your look.
The key is to keep your outfit simple and classic, just like the classic trench coat itself. Here are some tips on how to style a trench coat for women:
You can never go wrong with classic trench coats. But if you're feeling more adventurous, you can experiment with different colors, patterns and styles. Try on a check boyfriend trench, an oversized trench coat, or a minimalist design made without the original details like front buttons and a belted waist!
Like women, men can also style their trench coats in endless ways. For a sharp look, go for a trench in a regular fit and cinch at the waist to highlight your body shape. Alternatively, play around with proportions – don an oversized trench coat but wear it open to juxtapose with a more fitted ensemble underneath.
A trench coat will make you look sharp and stylish no matter how you style it. Just make sure the coat complements your figure.
Trench coats have been featured in countless movies and TV shows throughout the years, such that they’ve become associated with a cool, chic and action-oriented image. Trench coats are typically worn by private detectives, spies and other heroes on screen.
More recently, the BBC show Sherlock has popularized the long black trench coat. The main character Sherlock Holmes, played by Benedict Cumberbatch, is often seen wearing his signature coat as he solves crimes in modern-day London.
One of the most famous examples of a ladies' trench coat look is Audrey Hepburn’s iconic little black dress teamed with a long trench coat in beige as she walks through New York City in Breakfast at Tiffany’s. The look has been replicated by many fashionistas in the years since the movie was released in 1961.
Whether you're looking for a classic trench coat style or something more modern, there are plenty of trench coats to choose from here at YesStyle, along with other winter coats like faux leather jackets, puffer jackets and oversized jackets. Browse our popular trench coats today to find a design that fits your style!
