The classic, beige trench coat—a wardrobe staple that effortlessly transcends trends. It’s a minimalist’s dream, an enduring investment piece you can wear and cherish for years to come. This timeless silhouette, with its neutral color palette and enduring details, has a remarkable ability to adapt to any season or climate. It’s a testament to its enduring allure that the trench coat has been a mainstay for decades. In 1879, Thomas Burberry revolutionized fashion by inventing gabardine—a weather-proofed, cotton textile that became synonymous with the iconic trench coat. Originally designed for the military, this versatile garment has evolved into a fashion icon, gracing the silver screen in films like *Breakfast at Tiffany’s* and *Kramer vs. Kramer*, solidifying its status as a true fashion essential.
Modern Reinventions of the Trench Coat
The world of trench coats has expanded beyond the traditional beige, offering a spectrum of styles to suit every taste. Fall/Winter 2024 runways showcased the incredible diversity of this timeless piece. From Burberry’s classic interpretations to Chemena Kamali’s breathtaking debut at Chloé, featuring captivating caped variations, the trench coat reigns supreme. For those who appreciate the classics, there’s always the elegant simplicity of belted, button-front, or Mac coats. However, brands like Khaite and The Row have proven that experimentation with color, fabrics, and silhouettes can result in truly chic attire, pushing the boundaries of traditional trench coat designs.
A Guide to Trench Coat Styles
The Traditional Trenches:
These timeless beauties are the epitome of elegance. Their beige hues, double-breasted designs, belted waists, and classic collars are a testament to enduring style. You’ll find traditional trenches for every budget, from investment pieces by Burberry, the original purveyor of the trench coat, to wallet-friendly options at H&M.
The Minimalist Macs:
Known for their water-resistant qualities, trench coats are ideal for rainy days. Minimalist Macs, with their single-breasted silhouettes and streamlined designs, offer a sleek alternative to the traditional trench. Renowned for their button-front closures and straight silhouettes, they exude a refined elegance. Look for standout minimalist Macs by The Row, Veronica de Piante, and Anine Bing, offering a range of price points.
The New Neutrals:
While beige, camel, and khaki reign supreme, exploring a spectrum of neutral hues can elevate your trench coat collection. Navy, chocolate brown, gray, or military green offer a fresh perspective on this timeless silhouette. These hues are classic yet versatile, ensuring your trench coat seamlessly blends with your existing wardrobe while adding a touch of sophistication to your outerwear.
The Fashion-Forward Leathers:
The leather trench coat—whether real or faux—transforming the classic design into a downtown cool statement piece. This ultra-luxe style, a favorite among fashion editors and supermodels, injects a touch of edge into any ensemble. Embrace the belted or Mac-style variations and let your creativity guide your styling. A white button-down, midiskirt, and kitten heels create a street style-approved look.
The Suede Toppers:
Suede is synonymous with fall, making a suede trench coat an absolute must-have for the season. Channel the iconic rock and roll era with ’70s inspired suede trench coats in shades of brown—deep mocha, rusty tones, or sandy hues. Pair them with modern basics like a cashmere crewneck, straight-leg jeans, and loafers for a timeless yet stylish ensemble.
The Caped Crusaders:
Once a runway exclusive, capes have transitioned into a modern-day essential for the minimalist. Caped trench coats offer a dramatic twist on the classic silhouette, adding a touch of sophistication and intrigue. From Chloé’s full-length statement capes to COS’s effortless, shrunken versions, these draped designs add a modern edge to your outerwear collection.
The Remixed Classics:
These modern interpretations of the trench coat retain its foundational elements while incorporating unique twists. Róhe’s double collars, Prada’s leather belt trimmings, Khaite’s pleated shoulder detailing, and Sacai’s two-toned color-blocking all add a fresh perspective to the classic design. These reinvented trench coats are sure to brighten up even the dullest of rainy days while maintaining their fashion-forward flair.
The Chopped and Cropped:
Meet the shortened version of the trench coat—the trench jacket. Maintaining its classic double-breasted silhouette and essential details, this cropped style is a versatile piece that can elevate your workwear with high-waisted trouser pants or add a touch of polish to your weekend attire with baggy jeans.
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