But even the most classic staple can use a seasonal refresh, which is why we’ve culled an inspiring selection of tastemakers showing off updated ways to wear the jacket. And if you don’t own a trench yet, don’t fret! Click through to find a thorough shopping section that runs the gamut from basic khaki to a wild printed number, so you can find your own “Most Dependable” to add to your closet.
Harley Viera Newton
Want to show off your dress while still highlighting your figure? Take note from the model/DJ who belted her Burberry Prorsum trench (similar style here) to emphasise her waist, but left it unbuttoned so her feminine silk frock wasn’t hidden.
Poppy Delevingne
Think a tan hue is your only choice? Think again. Delevingne stepped out of the beige box with a claret red patent Burberry Prorsum Laminated Leather Trench Coat ($3595) at the label’s S/S 14 show.
Shala Monroque
The deep green hue of Monroque’s Isa Arfen coat is almost as versatile as the classic beige, but feels a step dressier for an evening event like the launch of Estee Lauder’s perfume, Modern Muse, in New York last month.
Gabriella Wilde
Wilde’s slightly cropped Burberry Prorsum Short Cotton Sateen Trench Coat ($1995) trench she wore to the brand’s S/S 14 show creates an ideal proportion for petite women.
Elena Perminova
Take advantage of the look’s classic vibe to balance more daring elements in your outfit. At the Carven S/S 14 show in Paris, for example, Perminova wore a Celine trench to ground her extreme gladiator heels.
Alexa Chung
Trench coats don’t have to skew casual. At a cocktail party in London, the Brit “It” girl wore her trusty Burberry Prorsum trench (similar style here) over a dressy lace ensemble for a sophisticated evening look.
Jessica Hart
If you consider yourself a feminine girl at heart, refer to the Australian model’s Upper East Side look for inspiration. Her Burberry Prorsum Mid-Length Cotton Gabardine Trench Coat ($2,195) was the perfect complement to preppy staples, like Ferragamo bow flats and a ladylike Louis Vuitton bag.
Choies Denim Oversize Trench ($94)
Sam Edelman Double Breasted Wool Inset Trench Coat ($121)
Ruche Endless Possibilities Trench Coat ($50)
J.Crew Icon Trench In Wool-Cashmere ($350) in Cabernet
H&M Trenchcoat ($60)
A.P.C. Double-Breasted Trench Coat ($635)
ASOS Vila 2 In 1 Trench Coat ($89)
Marc By Marc Jacobs Nicoletta Colorblock Felt Coat ($1198)
M Missoni Digital Camo Trench Coat ($627)
Thakoon Addition Leather-Trimmed Cotton-Blend Canvas Trench Coat ($790)
H&M Trenchcoat ($60)
A.P.C. Double-Breasted Trench Coat ($635)
ASOS Vila 2 In 1 Trench Coat ($89)
Marc By Marc Jacobs Nicoletta Colorblock Felt Coat ($1198)
M Missoni Digital Camo Trench Coat ($627)
Thakoon Addition Leather-Trimmed Cotton-Blend Canvas Trench Coat ($790)