Form and function: Chic women’s trench coats to wear with everything
From sweet summer dresses to wrapped-up winter wear, invest in a timeless trench coat you'll wear year-round
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Timelessness is something of a buzzword in the world of fashion. Despite the relentless deluge of trends churned out by the fashion machine, we are told time and time again that, by adding one timeless piece to our wardrobes, we will never again be left wondering what to wear. In most cases, it doesn’t quite work out like that, but for a few select pieces – black blazers, pearl jewellery, sleek slip dresses – this advice rings true. Particularly so in the case of the trench coat.
Originally a utilitarian garment, this chic essential is a piece of walking fashion history. Having evolved from the waterproof coats created by Scotsman Charles Macintosh, it’s Thomas Burberry’s cotton gabardine iterations worn by soldiers in the trenches during the First World War (hence the name) – as well as those by now-shuttered Aquascutum, who would argue that it made them first – that have inspired the styles we still see on the streets today.
Much like T-shirts, denim and Oxford shirts, this is one piece of masculine workwear that women have truly co-opted to make their own – even when off-duty. Whether thrown on over a summer dress or with jeans, a jumper and chunky Chelsea boots come winter, a timeless trench coat instantly elevates any outfit, while keeping you covered in the event of unwelcome rain showers. Here’s our pick of the best trench coats to throw on over any outfit.
Bottega Veneta double-breasted trench coat
Epitomising laid-back elegance, this double-breasted Bottega Veneta trench coat is the last word in effortless style. Crafted in a sleek glacial white cotton canvas with an A-line silhouette, contrasting black buttons, and a belted waist, this understated yet refined piece is one you’ll wear for years to come.
Burberry Waterloo Heritage trench coat
You can’t talk trench coats without bringing up Burberry. With its relaxed, longline silhouette, raglan sleeves and vintage check lining, there’s a reason the London-based brand is a go-to for women far and wide. We like to layer ours over everything from smart-casual suiting to head-to-toe cashmere.
Chloé Broderie Anglaise trench coat
Gabriella Hearst puts her trademark feminine touch on a classic with Chloé’s broderie anglaise trench coat. The intricate cut-out embroidery on the sleeves accentuates its delicate elegance while the detachable hood adds a touch of whimsical romanticism to a typically pared-back piece.
JW Anderson hooded leather trench coat
If you’re looking for a more distinctive trench coat to add to your rotation, may we suggest this experimental number from JW Anderson. Rendered in a chestnut brown vintage-finish leather with a relaxed hood and shawl lapel, this stylish trench coat will have heads turning wherever you step out.
Sacai satin-trimmed trench coat
Sacai’s double-breasted woven coat lets you have the best of two worlds with strips of tonal satin trim at the sides and ruffled wool-blend felt at the shoulders for a playful touch. Cut at the knee for a low-key look with a spread collar, this elegant take on the classic trench coat that’s guaranteed to go with everything.
The Row Cadel belted trench coat
Renowned for its understated yet beautifully crafted clothes, New York-based brand The Row excels in the kind of luxe essentials that every woman needs in her wardrobe. Made in Italy from a water-repellent olive green shell, it has wide lapels, double-breasted fastenings and a coordinating belt for cinching. This relaxed and oversized trench coat is sure to be a staple for seasons to come.
Alexander McQueen Tulle Trench coat
The last word in feminine punk-rock style, this tulle Alexander McQueen trench coat is as sexy as it is stylish – but what else would you expect? With a belted waist, the coat features black tulle overlays and balloon sleeves. With the dramatic silhouette and unique material, it won’t matter what you wear underneath – this coat will be the star of the show.
Valentino embroidered trench coat
Not a brand known for its subtlety, Valentino’s canvas trench coat gets the full diva treatment for a head-turning statement look. Cut in a classic silhouette with an oversized fit, wide lapels, side slit pockets and a soft silk lining finished with removable feather embroidery, this coat definitely isn’t one for wallflowers.
