Revamp Your Closet: Chic Ways to Style the Classic British Trench Coat
The trench coat, a staple of British fashion, has been a cornerstone of wardrobes for decades. Its timeless design, functionality, and versatility make it an essential piece that can be styled in numerous ways to suit any occasion. Whether you’re looking to elevate your everyday look or make a statement at a special event, here’s how you can revamp your closet with the classic trench coat.
The Timeless Appeal of the Trench Coat
The trench coat has a rich history, dating back to World War I when it was designed by Thomas Burberry for British officers. Since then, it has evolved into a fashion icon, gracing the runways and streets with its classic silhouette. Here’s why it remains a favorite among fashion enthusiasts:
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- Functionality: Trench coats are often water-resistant, making them a practical choice for rainy days. Look for coats made from resistant twill, a fabric that Burberry popularized[3].
- Versatility: Whether you opt for a single breasted or double breasted design, the trench coat can be styled to fit various occasions, from casual outings to formal events.
- Timeless Design: The classic trench coat silhouette stands the test of time, ensuring it remains a relevant piece in your wardrobe year after year.
Styling Your Trench Coat for Everyday Wear
Black Trench: The Ultimate Versatile Choice
A black trench coat is a must-have in any wardrobe. Here’s how you can style it for everyday wear:
- Pair with Jeans: A black trench coat over a pair of medium wash straight leg jeans and a simple black fitted tee is a classic combination. Add black sneakers for a casual yet chic look[2].
- Layer Over Leggings: For a more relaxed look, wear your black trench coat over leggings, a basic hoodie, and sneakers. This is perfect for running errands or a casual day out[2].
- Elevate with Accessories: Add a touch of sophistication with a faux fur handbag and pointed-toe heels. This can instantly elevate your outfit from casual to chic[2].
Adding a Pop of Color
If a black trench doesn’t excite you, consider other colors to add some variety to your wardrobe:
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- Denim Trench: A denim trench coat gives the classic piece a modern twist. Pair it with flared jeans and a funky belt for a ’70s-inspired look[1].
- Cream or Beige Trench: A cream or beige trench coat can add a soft, elegant touch to your outfit. Pair it with an all-black ensemble and pointed-toe heels for a sophisticated look[1].
Creating Chic and Stylish Outfits
The Classic Approach
Sometimes, sticking to the classics is the best way to go:
- White Button Down and Trousers: Pair your trench coat with a crisp white button-down shirt and trousers from Athleta. Add ballet flats for a polished yet comfortable look[2].
- Monochromatic White: For a sleek and modern look, go for a monochromatic white outfit. Pair your trench coat with a white sweater dress, nude heels, and a faux fur bag[2].
Trending Textures and Details
Incorporate current trends to give your trench coat a modern twist:
- Boho-Inspired Details: Add retro touches like flared jeans, suede, and funky belts to give your trench coat a cool, ’70s-inspired flair. Alessandra Ambrosio’s look is a great example of how to pull this off effortlessly[1].
- Street Style Serve: Take inspiration from Zendaya’s street style by pairing a pop-culture-inspired top with relaxed wide-leg pants and a trench coat. This look is chic yet grounded[1].
Trench Coats for Special Occasions
Dressy Looks
For those special occasions, here’s how you can style your trench coat to make a statement:
- Black and White Combination: A black trench coat paired with a simple sweater dress, jeweled heels, and a textured bag is a chic and elegant look. This ensemble is sophisticated enough for a holiday party or a night out at the bar[4].
- Layered in Chic Details: Pair your trench coat with a bold pair of plaid pants, classically styled heels, and an adjustable satchel. This look is perfect for professional settings or family gatherings[4].
Athleisure and Casual Elegance
Trench coats aren’t just for formal events; they can also be styled for more casual, yet elegant looks:
- Athleisure Look: Wear a vibrant colored trench coat over a sweatshirt and sweatpants. Add tennis shoes with a hint of shine and trendy sunglasses for a comfortable yet stylish outfit[4].
- Orchard Adventures: Choose a functional yet stylish trench coat for outdoor activities. Pair it with a denim shoulder bag for a look that merges fashion and function seamlessly[1].
Practical Tips for Styling Your Trench Coat
Choosing the Right Fit
- Roomy Fit: Opt for a trench coat that has a roomy fit to allow for layering underneath. However, ensure it’s not too big; sizing down might be necessary for a better fit[2].
- Length: Trench coats can be long or short. Look for ones that hit just below the knee for a balanced look[3].
Accessorizing
- Belt Styling: Experiment with different ways to wear the belt. While the classic tie in the front is timeless, wearing it undone can add a modern twist, as long as it’s not raining[3].
- Handbags and Shoes: Add interest to your outfit with a faux fur handbag or a bold pair of boots. These accessories can elevate your look from basic to chic[2].
Celebrity Inspiration
Celebrities often set the tone for fashion trends, and their ways of styling trench coats are no exception:
- Cindy Crawford and Angelina Jolie: These stars have been spotted wearing camel trench coats at airports, showcasing how this piece can elevate a travel day look while maintaining comfort and style[3].
- Zendaya: Zendaya’s street style, featuring a trench coat over a pop-culture-inspired top and relaxed wide-leg pants, is a great example of how to make this coat look effortlessly cool[1].
Table: Comparing Different Trench Coat Styles
Style | Description | Best For | Key Features |
---|---|---|---|
Classic Black Trench | Timeless design, single or double breasted, water-resistant twill | Everyday wear, formal events | Belted waist, epaulets, storm flap |
Denim Trench | Modern twist on the classic, denim material | Casual outings, trendy looks | Flared jeans, funky belts, ’70s-inspired flair |
Cream or Beige Trench | Soft, elegant look, often paired with all-black ensembles | Sophisticated events, workwear | Pointed-toe heels, faux fur bag |
Athleisure Trench | Vibrant colors, comfortable design | Casual, outdoor activities | Sweatshirt, sweatpants, tennis shoes with shine |
Leather Trench | Sleek, mysterious look, often paired with lingerie | Special occasions, date nights | Heels, small bag, all-black lingerie set |
Detailed List: 10 Fresh Ways to Wear Your Trench Coat
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Attention to Detail: Merge the rugged appeal of a barn jacket with the structure of a classic trench. Pair it with a bold handbag and square-toe boots for a playful twist[1].
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Key Pieces: Waxed finish coat, bold handbag, square-toe boots
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Occasion: City streets, English countryside
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Blue Jean Baby: Switch to a denim trench for a trend-forward take. Maintain the timeless structure while adding a unique feel[1].
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Key Pieces: Denim trench, flared jeans, funky belt
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Occasion: Casual outings, trendy events
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Trending Textures: Incorporate boho-inspired details like flared jeans, suede, and funky belts for a ’70s-inspired flair[1].
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Key Pieces: Flared jeans, suede, funky belt
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Occasion: Casual, trendy events
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Street Style Serve: Pair a pop-culture-inspired top with relaxed wide-leg pants and a trench coat for an effortlessly cool look[1].
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Key Pieces: Pop-culture-inspired top, wide-leg pants
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Occasion: Street style, casual outings
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Feeling Neutral: Combine a gray plaid mini skort with a beige trench coat and edgy Chelsea boots for a modern contrast[1].
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Key Pieces: Gray plaid mini skort, beige trench coat, Chelsea boots
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Occasion: Autumn outings, casual events
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Cream Coat: Opt for a longline cream trench coat and pair it with an all-black outfit and pointed-toe heels for a sophisticated look[1].
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Key Pieces: Cream trench coat, all-black outfit, pointed-toe heels
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Occasion: Sophisticated events, workwear
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Orchard Adventures: Choose a functional yet stylish trench coat for outdoor activities. Pair it with a denim shoulder bag[1].
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Key Pieces: Functional trench coat, denim shoulder bag
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Occasion: Outdoor activities
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Sheer Joy: Pair your trench coat with a semi-sheer cream top and relaxed, ripped jeans for a laid-back, casual look[1].
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Key Pieces: Semi-sheer cream top, ripped jeans
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Occasion: Running errands, weekend trips
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Sleek Sophistication: Pair ’70s-inspired athletic shorts with sleek knee-high boots and a trench coat for a surprisingly chic combo[1].
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Key Pieces: ’70s-inspired athletic shorts, knee-high boots
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Occasion: Special occasions, dressy events
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Classic Approach: Pair your trench coat with a classic turtleneck and smaller sunglasses for an effortlessly stylish look[1].
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Key Pieces: Classic turtleneck, smaller sunglasses
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Occasion: Everyday wear, formal events
The trench coat is more than just a piece of outerwear; it’s a versatile fashion staple that can be styled in countless ways to suit any occasion. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of sophistication to your everyday look or make a statement at a special event, the trench coat is your go-to piece.
As Reneé Rapp once said, “The key to styling a trench coat is to balance structure with ease.” By experimenting with different colors, textures, and accessories, you can continue to reinvent your wardrobe and keep your trench coat looking fresh and timeless.
So, the next time you’re deciding what to wear, remember that your trench coat is more than just a coat – it’s a canvas waiting for your personal style to shine through. Happy styling