“Stick to the classics, and you can’t ever go wrong. I see old ladies on the street who have fabulous style and realize it’s because they are probably wearing really classic items that they’ve had for years and years. I think if you find something that suits you, you should just stick to it.“
— Alexa Chung
SHOP THE POST:
Trench – Old (similar) || Turtleneck – Lululemon (similar) || Leggings – Amazon || Bag – Chloé Mini ‘Drew’ (luxury dupes: 1 / 2) || Pumps – Dune London (similar) || Scarf – Vintage Hermès || Sunglasses – Le Specs || Lips – YSL in ‘Nude Beige’
Photos courtesy of Heidi of Wishes & Reality
One of the most timeless pieces in my closet is a trench coat.
Once upon a time, this clever, utilitarian coat was designed for military combat — now it’s a chic, gender-neutral wardrobe must-have. Talk about a 180!
And there are so many reasons to see why the classic trench coat has been a perennial favorite since the 1940s. It’s practical, often waterproof or water-repellant, hardy, and flattering on just about any body type. It’s one of those pieces you return to time and time again because it just WORKS. And works well. As all wardrobe essentials should.
I wear my trench coat everywhere (even Platform 9 3/4!), especially in spring because it completes just about any outfit with ease. And ensures I’m ready for any last-minute downpours!
Looking to invest in this wardrobe essential yourself? Here are a few things to consider first!
Things To Consider Before Buying A Trench Coat
1. Double-Breasted vs. Single-Breasted?
Since I’m well-endowed on top, I prefer the more-slimming, less-cluttered look of a single-breasted trench coat. But you really can’t go wrong with the classic, double-breasted trench either. Try on a few of each style to determine which looks best with your body type.
2. Fabric
Waterproof or water-repellant fabric is a must! I’m shocked at the number of raincoats that I see on the market these days made in fabrics that are truly atrocious in rain — the sort of fabrics you’ll end up looking like a drenched rat in! Isn’t a trench coat supposed to keep you dry in the rain? Wasn’t that its original purpose? Make sure you pay attention to the fabric of your trench (and the care instructions! Most should be dry-cleaned).
3. Silhouette
Trench coats come in all sizes and shapes these days from cropped trench jackets to feminine flared trench coats to midi-length city trench coats. First analyze your closet — do you generally wear pants, skirts, or dresses? Buy a trench coat that flatters most of the outfits you have –since I wear dresses so much, I bought a knee-length trench coat to ensure it would provide proper coverage. I also bought mine with a slight a-line cut to ensure it was slimming and flattering on my hourglass body.
4. Weight
Do you live in a warm or cold climate? Or both? Pick a trench coat that will offer you the most versatility at home. Mine has a woolen liner I can zip in and out as necessary so, except for the roughest parts of winter, I can wear it year-round. If possible, I always recommend a trench with a removable liner since it just gives you so much more versatility!
5. Price
Trench coats are available in all sorts of price ranges. Burberry trench coats are the designer standard but companies like London Fog make very similar coats for a fraction of the cost. High-street retailers like Topshop, Zara, H&M, and others all carry seasonal trench coats for even less. Take some time to browse your options and weigh them against your budget — these days trench coats are everywhere so don’t get discouraged!
Are trench coats one of your wardrobe essentials?
