8 Ways To Style A Trench Coat Better Than Your Favorite Detective
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A trench coat isn’t just a regular coat. It’s a cool coat. It also isn’t a jacket you find to match an outfit. On the contrary, a trench coat is a statement piece that makes an outfit. These coats are one of the most iconic wardrobe pieces, partly due to their representation in the media. It seems as if only the sleek, mysterious, and powerful characters in cinema, television, and the tabloids know how to truly wear a trench–well, not anymore. Styling can be a fun and easy process when you keep in mind that the trench coat is the focal point of your outfit.
But before we start to style this classic coat, we have to know what it even is first. It’s not just a long, dull coat that comic book detectives wear (like my teenage self thought). A traditional trench coat is an outer garment that is double-breasted, usually a bit long, includes a belt, and (of course) buttons. As fashion has evolved, some of the traditional aspects of the trench coat–such as the belt and distinct double-breasted style–have become more subtle or, in the case of many designs, gone away completely. Still, these garments are versatile and can blend into countless trends.
Here are a few ideas that’ll help you style a trench coat!
Timeless Trends
Some trends never die. They become staples in our culture’s fashions. Following timeless trends is probably the easiest way to style a trench coat because there are decades of examples and inspiration is just a Pinterest search away.
Black & White: The Classic Combination
Shop: Trench Coat | Sweater Dress | Heels | Satchel | Earrings
Dreaming in color is fun, but dressing in black and white is better. Black and white is one of the most classic color combinations–it’s simple, elegant, and flattering. For a chic, dressy look, start with a basic black trench coat. Add a simple sweater dress for a bit of an upscale preppy touch. Accentuate the ensemble with jeweled heels and a textured bag for added refinement. This chic look is sophisticated enough to don at your job’s holiday party, yet comfortable to swing by the bar afterward, too!
Our favorites:
Image: Nordstrom
Black Trench Coat
Sam Edelman
Image: Amazon
Flared White Trench Coat
Zeagoo
Business Casual (With A Little Flair)
Shop: Trench Coat | Cardigan | Trousers | Pumps | Handbag
Mirror, mirror: what is the most timeless trend of all? I’d argue it’s business casual. When we stop and think, we may notice that work clothes have honestly not changed greatly over the last several decades compared to other fashion trends. That’s why styling a trench coat for work or school can be done with ease–all you need is a chic trench coat.
So why not make it a brightly colored one to liven up your work day? The rest of your outfit should be subtle and professional. So a black and white combination of a cardigan, slacks, shoes, and a bag should do the trick. This is a work-friendly outfit that will make you feel stylish, confident, and ready to lead the floor at your weekly meeting.
Our Favorites:
Image: Everlane
The Cotton Modern Trench Coat
Everlane
Image: J.Crew
New Icon Trench
J.Crew
Sexy, Sophisticated & Perfectly Stylish
Shop: Leather Trench Coat | Slip Dress | Pumps | Handbag
The plain trench coats are the ones you can individualize the most. Yet, some of the most iconic fashion moments in cinematic history focus more so on what’s underneath. We’ve all admired a scene where an alluring woman surprises her lover in a trench coat with only lingerie beneath. If you’ve ever thought about doing this yourself, you’ll only need a few signature pieces to feel like the most confident woman in the world.
Choose a neutral-colored trench coat. (Hint: A real or faux leather coat will give you a sleek and mysterious touch that will add to your allure.) What’s worn underneath is whatever makes you feel the most confident and sexy. This could be an all-black lingerie set that includes anything from a sheer bra to suspenders and thigh-high stockings, but heels are a must in any sultry look. A small bag is a cute little touch that can fit just the right amount of stuff.
Our Favorites:
Image: Nordstrom
Modern Trench Coat
Bernardo
Image: Revolve
Faux Leather Trench Coat
BLANKNYC
Contemporary Fashion
Contemporary fashion is trendy, accessible, and increasingly sustainable. It’s basically the everyday looks we see all around us, but that doesn’t mean that it’s any less special. Styling a contemporary trench coat look can leave you feeling like the star of your own runway in the middle of Trader Joe’s!
Barbie-Inspired Couture
Shop: Bright Pink Trench | Bodysuit | Trousers | Boots | Sunglasses
Barbie is the IT girl of the year. Join this sleek Barbie-core trend by creating an affordable high-fashion look of your own. Because this monochromatic look emphasizes minimalism, select a bright-colored trench coat to offset any dullness. Then, just keep it simple. A bodycon long-sleeve shirt and matching pants will enhance your curves, and over-the-knee boots will add even more sleekness to your look. Finally, you’ll need the most important accessory of the fashion year: superhero-esque sunglasses! This is a special look for the fun nights out in the wintertime.
Our Favorites:
Image: Target
Notched Faux Suede Trench Coat
Allegra K
Image: Amazon
Bright Pink Trench Coat
Chrisuno
Plaid At The Farmer’s Market
Shop: Plaid Trench | Henley | Denim Overalls | Boots | Mini Backpack | Beanie
It’ll be easy to remain trendy when you have a plaid trench coat stored away. Plaid is one of those trends that never quite die. I’m not sure if it’s the viral farming videos we see on TikTok, but it seems plaid is having a resurgence. Style your most comfortable plaid trench with a chic farmer’s look in mind. This can be as simple as a pair of denim overalls, a neutral sweater, boots, and an optional bag. Adding a beanie will give you a final touch of stylish comfort and warmth that can be worn anywhere from the grocery store to the park.
Our Favorites:
Image: Amazon
Turn Down Collar Wrap Coat
Allegra K
Image: Nordstrom Rack
Belted Plaid Trench Coat
Avec Les Filles
Layered In Chic Details
Shop: Trench Coat | White Tee | Plaid Pants | Satchel | Pumps
It doesn’t take much to transform a classic style trench coat into a contemporary one. This coat adds a modern undertone to the classic design–while understated, it injects sophistication into any outfit. A toned-down trench like this only needs a bold pair of pants, paired with classically styled heels that can be both subtle, yet eye-catching. An adjustable satchel is the ideal accessory, and a simple shirt will keep attention on your dashing outerwear.
A chic look like this is a stylish way to dress to impress professionally for an interview, meeting, or day at the office. (It’s even a good look to wear at family and friends dinners.)
Our Favorites:
Image: Amazon
Classic Khaki Trench Coat
Kirundo
Image: Nordstrom
Hooded Faux Leather Trim Trench
Ralph Lauren
Modern & Bold
The modern style trench coat is difficult to describe because there is no set definition. Today’s designers take calculated risks in reimagining the traditional trench coat by experimenting with various lengths, prints, fabrics, and so much more. Because of these factors, styling a modern trench is highly individualistic…and bold.
Make An Oversized Denim Statement
Shop: Denim Trench | Cargo Pants | White Tee | Sneakers | Beanie
With Y2K fashion still trending everywhere, denim on denim is back and almost as popular as it was when Britney and Justin wore their infamous matching denim look on the red carpet. What’s even more popular right now than denim? All things baggy. This oversized denim trench coat has the best of both worlds with a mild grunge touch.
And, this look would not be complete without a pair of matching baggy cargo jeans and platform shoes. Since an all denim look can be a bit jarring for most, break up the denim with a simple shirt. A statement beanie will solidify this look as a punk rock core outfit! This whole ensemble is made for listening to Olivia Rodrigo at full blast or dancing all night long at any club, rave, or concert!
Our Favorites:
Image: Nordstrom
Hayes Denim Trench Coat
Reformation
Image: Express
Denim Belted Trench Coat
Express
A Vibrant Athleisure Look
Shop: Purple Trench | Sweatshirt | Sweatpants | Sunglasses | Sneakers
When we are adventurous with our clothes, we’re also wearing our hearts on our sleeves. Bare your expressive soul in a vividly colored trench coat like this one. Its colorful print is really the only accessory you’ll need to be true to yourself. The rest of the look can be as chill and relaxed as you hope your day will be. A comfortable sweatshirt and sweatpants will do the trick and keep you cozy. Tennis shoes with a hint of shine will add a subtle layer of flare and trendy sunglasses will be the most stylist final touch.
This is an outfit you can wear anywhere. It’s comfortable enough for a long day in class, functional enough for a busy day of errands, and stylish enough for meeting up with friends.
Our Favorites:
Image: Nordstrom
Belted Wool Coat
Sam Edelman
Image: Nordstrom
Trench coats should be a woman’s true best friend. There are endless editions of trench coats that flatter any woman of any size, age, and fashion-sense. While for many women it’s easier to style a plain trench coat, don’t be afraid to experiment with textures and prints using some of these tips!