Trench Coats
Because there are hundreds (thousands!) of choices out there when it comes to coats, why should we invest in a trench coat per see?
What is a Trench Coat?
A trench coat is a double-breasted (meant to be) raincoat with a belt and straps on the shoulders. It originates from the military. Women began wearing trench coats after World War II when there was a surplus of military clothing.
It’s the perfect combination of practical and stylish, especially as a transitional coat in the Autumn and Spring. The trench coat has definitely reached fashion staple status, so if you don’t have one yet you should!
The trench coat is a piece that is worth the investment, never goes out of style, and is a long-lasting garment for many years to come.
BUT... Like any piece of clothing that has been around for decades, the trench coat has evolved over time. Especially when the original design gets remade for the opposite sex. Nowadays there are many variations of the trench coat from simply being single-breasted to being made more colourful.
Trench coats finish anywhere from thigh length to ankle length. Long trench coats are the most dramatic style, and you’d be surprised how many people can pull them off! It just takes confidence.
Long trench coats create a long line that lengthens the silhouette. Just make sure to go for full-length (hitting the ankle or slightly above) rather than at the knee, as that will cut off your legs in a strange place.
Even more to know!
Trench coats were originally designed to make men’s torsos look broader. So it may make your chest look bigger than it actually is, which may or may not be a good thing. Opt for a single-breasted or buttonless version (note the buttonless versions usually have more open lapels for a reason) if you don’t want your chest to look extra bulky.
You will want to reach for something much heavier in winter (unless you live somewhere mostly warm), but otherwise, it makes an excellent layering piece in Spring, Summer, and Autumn. It can be worn at any time really if weather conditions allow it.
Trench coats look great styled with jeans and a t-shirt or a shirt and denim shorts or a denim skirt. If you want to go edgier, try a hoodie underneath.
Your shoes can be sneakers, loafers, ballet flats, heels, or ankle boots. Shirt dresses also look amazing under trench coats.
My tip!
Show your ankles.
This separates the trench coat from the winter coat. The traditional coat is meant for winter while the trench coat is made for the other 3 seasons of the year.
