Trench Coats Are Seriously Versatile—9 Sophisticated Outfits That Prove It

Synonymous with British style, it’s hard to deny the timelessness of a trench coat. In fact, I have two: a classic camel and a simple black, and both are added to my wardrobe rotations from February, where they stay throughout spring and summer until the frosty chill of winter sets in once again. The coat comes into its own at this time of year thanks in part to its versatility. As we move ever closer to warmer, brighter days, we still need to be prepared for the sudden showers and occasional grey skies that require a coat that can offer both design appeal and weather-proof practicality. The trench is it. Whether completing a dressy evening ensemble or layered over workout gear for a post-gym coffee, the appeal of the trench coat is that it suits any outfit it’s put with.

Anouk wears a trench coat, jumper, white linen trousers and flats

(Image credit: @anoukyve)

Despite its utilitarian roots (the item was originally created as a part of an army officer's uniform), over the years, the trench coat has undergone several makeovers, with various designers and brands reimagining and redesigning the staple piece. But still, the original feel of the trench coat remains. Especially now in the age of classics, designers from high-end to high street are celebrating the trench coat in its most iconic form; with double-breasted buttons, a belt and often distinct shoulder details.

Today, the trench is considered a forever piece, at home in everyone's wardrobe regardless of age, personal style or gender. So much so, that each time I scroll through Instagram I come across a new way to style it, and it seems to blend effortlessly with any aesthetic. With this in mind, I've compiled nine trench-coat outfits I love right now, proving just how easily this spring outerwear hero can transition from casual to elevated.

Keep scrolling to explore nine chic ways to wear a trench coat this spring.

9 TRENCH COAT OUTFITS TO TRY

1. TRENCH COAT + CARDIGAN + JEANS + BOOTS

Kristin wears a trench, grey cardigan, blue jeans and black boots

(Image credit: @kristincabat)

Style Notes: One of the most classic outfits around. Pair a long trench with a cardigan and jeans for a timeless, wear-anywhere look.

2. TRENCH COAT + RED JUMPER + MAXI SKIRT + LOAFERS

Mira wears a trench coat, red jumper, black maxi skirt and loafers

(Image credit: @modestmira_)

Style Notes: I've been relying on a maxi skirt and jumper combination for months now, and as I pack away my heavy winter coat, my trench can now take its place.

3. TRENCH COAT + WIDE-LEG TROUSERS + COLOURFUL TRAINERS

Raeann wears a trench coat, grey top, black wide leg trousers and colourful trainers

(Image credit: @raeannlangas)

Style Notes: Wide-leg, tailored trousers are a modern staple, so naturally I had to show how to style them. Add a basic top and playful sneakers for a fresh spring look.

4. TRENCH COAT + JUMPER + MINISKIRT + KITTEN HEELS

Dawn wears a trench coat, knit jumper, mini skirt and kitten heels

(Image credit: @dawn.tan)

Style Notes: For dressier days, the trench coat will meet the elegance of your miniskirt and heels ensemble.

5. TRENCH COAT + JUMPER + WHITE TROUSERS + FLATS

Anouk wears a trench coat, jumper, white linen trousers and flats

(Image credit: @anoukyve)

Style Notes: Ready to don your whites now that spring is arriving? Just add trending flats, a soft knit and of course, a classic trench.

6. TRENCH COAT + WHITE TEE + PLEATED SKIRT + LOAFERS

Francesca wears a beige trench coat, pleated mini skirt and loafers

(Image credit: @francescasaffari)

Style Notes: For a thoroughly contemporary look, pair your trench coat with a pleated miniskirt, T-shirt and loafers.

7. TRENCH COAT + BLACK BUTTON-DOWN + TAILORED TROUSERS + BALLET PUMPS

Lorna wears a trench coat, black shirt, tailored trousers and ballet flats

(Image credit: @symphonyofsilk)

Style Notes: For an exceedingly effortless look, make like Lorna (pictured above) and stick to a monochromatic ensemble with the trench as the main event.

8. TRENCH COAT + STRIPED TOP + LEGGINGS + TRAINERS

Jessica wears a trench coat, striped jumper, leggings and running trainers

(Image credit: @_jessicaskye)

Style Notes: The brilliance of a trench coat is the polish it brings to even the most relaxed outfits like this leggings look.

9. TRENCH COAT + WHITE BUTTON-DOWN + SHORTS + SANDALS

Aida wears a trench coat, white shirt, black tailored shorts and sandals

(Image credit: @aidabadji_)

Style Notes: A trench coat shouldn't be saved for rainy days, so when the skies turn blue why not pair yours with a pair of sunny-day shorts and sandals?

Acting Affiliates Editor

Florrie embarked on her fashion journey while studying French and History at university. Whilst studying in Aix-en-Provence, she began to write her dissertation on the history of fashion and the influence of Haute Couture, and landed her first role at Harper’s Bazaar. Following this, she interned for various publications including Elle, Grazia and Marie Claire before joining the fashion team at Conde Nast Traveller. There, she contributed to international photoshoots, styled pages and covers, and produced engaging digital content.

During a freelance period, Florrie honed her skills in editorial work in various digital and print publications including Vogue Italy and Departures magazine, as well as styling e-commerce photoshoots and personal shopping. Florrie actively pursues an in-depth understanding of fashion and jewellery, and after styling a jewellery cover shoot at Conde Nast Traveller chose to complete the De Beers Diamond Foundation course. Florrie first joined Who What Wear UK as a freelancer before becoming the Commerce Writer, blending both editorial and commercial content. Now, as the Acting Affiliates Editor, she monitors current trends, new-in styles, wardrobe heroes and how best to style them. In her downtime, Florrie can be found in her hometown of London, usually with a coffee in hand.