With the first bloom of blossom on the trees and the occasional trickle of sunshine, spring is right around the corner. And no outerwear defines the season quite like the trench coat. This time of year can feel like the most confusing, with one week of milder days followed by a sudden downpour with bright, clear skies straight afterward. With this in mind, I took a moment to think about how to look chic yet still stay dry when the temperamental British weather isn’t on our side. If you’re thinking the same, don’t fear, as the answer lies in a wardrobe staple that suits every wardrobe. Easy to throw on, functional yet stylish and an instant way to pull your look together, the trench coat is the chic clever-up we all need in our lives.
Marianne wears a black trench coat with a shirt and basket bag.
Influencers such as Marianne of @smythsisters and stylist Hanna MW are big fans of a trench coat, too, providing us with endless inspo on how to style ours. Marianne is known to wears her long black iteration in true trans-seasonal style with a basket bag and flats, while Hanna teams her vintage trench with oversized cargo trousers to give the look a contemporary twist.
Hanna wears a classic trench with white cargos and Chanel platforms.
As a fashion editor, I love researching and deep-diving into what's trending right now. However, the trench coat isn't new, having evolved from waterproof coats dating back to the 1820s. Fast-forward to 1853, and Aquascutum and Burberry both took advantage of the evolving technology to make the coat their own, in Burberry's case inventing the gabardine fabric, which it still uses today. And just like that, the trench coat as we know it was born.
From the classic beige version to shiny faux leather, when it comes to the high street's offering of trench coats, the choice is endless. If you're liking what you read, scroll on to discover my edit of the best high-street trench coats that you'll love now and wear forever.
SHOP THE BEST TRENCH COATS ON THE HIGH STREET
Marks & Spencer has so many great trench coats this season.
A black style is endlessly versatile.
Every detail hits the classic design, from the double-breasted buttons to the shoulder tabs.
A more minimalist approach in a sleek khaki shade.
Aligne's maxi style sells out every year.
Available in sizes 2XS to 4XL.
I'm a big fan of this true green shade.
Revitalise your trench coat collection with this shorter version.
Everything about this look is a 10/10.
Trust COS to offer a contemporary take on the classic trench.
This one is currently top of my wish list.
The mole shade adds to the overall premium feel of this one.
I'm still not over the cool hood detail.
Worn loose or buttoned and belted, this will add a polished touch to any outfit.
I haven't stopped thinking about this soft green style since it first released.
Arket's playful take is crafted from a cotton-viscose blend.
For something a little different...
Opening image: @_marisamartins_
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