The 20 Best Trench Coats for Women That Will Outlast the Trend Cycle
A silhouette that needs neither introduction nor reinvention.
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Our favorite season is quickly approaching and you know what that means… It's time to talk about fall fashion. With fashion week coming to a wrap, there’s no better time to discuss a mainstay that’s been dominating on and off the runways: trench coats. Few pieces in fashion boast the influence or staying power, and this garment dates its popularity all the way back to World War I. There’s arguably no more versatile piece of outerwear; throw it on over jeans, dresses, workwear, party attire, you name it, a trench coat is always acceptable. A traditional trench style is light enough for in-between seasons but sturdy enough to withstand chill, and its iconic silhouette can turn a T-shirt and a pair of best workout leggings runway-ready.
Although both Burberry and Aquascutum take credit for designing the first trench, the look has become so ubiquitous that it inspired thousands of imitations and interpretations. That’s a good thing for fashion fiends, but it makes the process of uncovering the right trench coat women want to wear even trickier.
So, what makes a good trench coat stand out from the others? The most important factor to consider when shopping for your next coat is fit. By finding the proper length that compliments your height and body proportionally, that’ll make or break your look. For example, a short wearer may drown in a trench made for someone who’s on the taller side. You also don’t want your trench too fitting if you’re planning to sneak in some layers underneath. Oversized is in, but dressing for your body type is always key (when it comes to anything, really). Ahead, we’ve compiled our favorites at numerous price points and in a variety of styles to help you on your hunt.
A gorgeous, classic cut made of 100 percent cotton, Rouje’s trench features a double-breasted style and a waist-tie belt. A reliable style you can dress up with ankle boots or down with workout clothes, there’s no doubt you’ll be reaching for this closet staple all season.
Sizes: 34-44
Color: Sand
Want to switch it up from the traditional khaki? This quilted trench coat is a guaranteed showstopper. Match it with your quilted handbag, perhaps?
Sizes: XXS-XL
Color: Army Green
Is any textile more autumnal than wool? Certainly not. And if you’re looking to continue on the quiet luxury trend into the colder months, this sleek coat has literally got you covered.
Sizes: 0-16
Color: Sand and Navy Blue
London Fog’s dominion in the outerwear space is well-established, but what makes this particular design such a hit is how it marries sophistication and quality with utility and affordability. Less than $120 for a long-lasting trench coat is a steal—and it’s machine washable, no less!
Sizes: S-XL
Color: Brown Khaki and Black
Burberry Kensington Cotton Trench Coat
A Burberry trench coat is arguably the most iconic when it comes to outerwear. An investment you can wear for years, there’s obviously a reason the Kensington hasn’t gone out of style after all this time.
Sizes: 0-14
Color: Honey
Alice + Olivia Elicia Strong-Shoulder Vegan Leather Trench Coat
If you haven’t been paying attention, faux leather is back in a big way, from jackets and pants to, apparently, trench coats. The buttery-soft material of this Alice + Olivia trench alone is enough to add to cart, but it’s an instantly elegant outfit upgrade to boot.
Sizes: XS-XL
Color: Toffee
While not a classic trench in the most technical sense, the silhouette of this faux fur coat suggests a trench influence—and, besides, the teddy material is all the rage. Size down to ensure you don’t get swallowed in all that fluff.
Sizes: XXS-XL
Color: Camel, Black, Espresso, and Ivory
We’re suckers for all things denim, so why not integrate that into outerwear? This 100 percent cotton denim pick features a belted waist, notched lapels, and button cuffs—more than enough to hold its own on the catwalk. My style advice? Pair it with your favorite jeans and make it a whole denim ensemble.
Sizes: XXS-XXL
Color: Rensberry Wash
A duster-length coat worn with a mini dress and boots? Always chic. Never misses. Best of all, this particular style is soft, sturdy and less than $75, meaning you can cure your closet envy without draining your bank account.
Sizes: XS-XXL
Color: 6 options
A typical trench falls to the mid-calf or lower, but for a slightly sportier, more casual style, a knee-high trench is an excellent compromise.
Sizes: S-XL
Color: 6 options
For a much more modern spin, Helmut Lang’s moto-like cropped trench effortlessly imbues any look—dressy or casual—with a cool, youthful edge. The asymmetrical silhouette is looser and boxier than the typical cinched trench, so keep that in mind when selecting a size.
Sizes: XXS-L
Color: Black
Designers know it’s a fool’s errand to reinvent the trench silhouette, so instead of re-tailoring a classic, many have opted instead to play with texture and color. Take Danz, for instance—their oversized trench features a plastic-like reflective fabric made of vegan leather. The material instantly distinguishes the look from its khaki counterparts.
Sizes: FR34-FR38
Color: Tan
Lafayette 148 New York Cotton Twill Convertible Trench Coat
As much as Y2K fashion loves an oversized fit, nothing outlasts the classic look of a well-tailored coat. Lafayette 148’s Italian cotton pieces are particularly stunning, cut to fit the body as naturally as a second skin. Plus, this one features a convertible design that can be worn cropped at the waist or calf-length. Talk about a two-for-one!
Sizes: XXS-XXL
Color: Cadet Khaki
“Oversized” and “plus-size” are not synonymous, contrary to what many designers seem to think, and not all trench coats are made equal when it comes to flattering curvy bodies. But this printed beauty from Lane Bryant fits up to a size 28 beautifully.
Sizes: 12-28
Color: Neutral Plaid
While the most well-known trenches come in khaki, black, and olive, there’s no reason not to experiment with patterns—and the cow print design on this Acne Studios coat is as breathtaking as the piece it’s printed on.
Sizes: 30-42
Color: Dark Brown
Effortlessly luxurious draping is a point of pride, and that extends to the creative spin on this Ted Baker trench, which incorporates a hefty wool scarf as opposed to the typical double-breasted collar. Save some time when you don’t have to worry about neck accessories to keep you warm this winter.
Sizes: 2-10
Color: Camel
I mean, it’s all in the name. A far cry from the typical trench but nevertheless a closet staple, Eddie Bauer’s waterproof athletic trench is a must-have for bikes, hikes, and all-terrain antics in any weather.
Sizes: XS-XXL
Color: 5 options
Nothing is more fashion forward than a trench dress. This one from M.M. Lafleur is lightweight, wrinkle resistant, and machine-washable. Seriously, you need to feel this fabric for yourself. If you’re not a dress girl, opt in for the brand’s Bia Pant and wear this baby opened up.
Sizes: 00-18
Color: Macaroon
Just because the typical silhouette doesn’t need an update shan’t imply it’ll never get one. Made to style in various ways, COS opted for billowing draped sleeves, transforming the coat into a couture cape.
Sizes: One Size
Color: Light Beige
If you’re looking for a more structured silhouette, then look no further. This oversized Everlane option comes in three neutral colors, features a back vent, and is instantly eye-catching. Add this lightweight essential to your rotation, stat. Just think of all the layering you can do!
Sizes: XXS-XL
Color: Beech, Cornstalk, and Black
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