
The trench coat is a versatile piece of outerwear that can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. While it is not considered formal wear, it can be worn over anything from a little black dress to jeans and a sweater. Trench coats are typically made from lightweight cotton or wool, and come in a variety of colours, including the traditional camel or khaki, as well as more modern shades like burgundy, navy, hunter green, brown and black. They are often double-breasted with a belt, and can be worn open or closed, making them a versatile choice for transitional weather.
What You'll Learn
- Trench coats are versatile and can be worn with anything from a little black dress to jeans
- Trench coats are made from a variety of materials, including leather, faux leather, wool, and cotton
- Trench coats come in a range of colours, including traditional shades of camel, khaki, sand, stone, navy blue, and black
- Trench coats are typically double-breasted with ten buttons, but single-breasted versions are also available
- Trench coats are designed to be looser for added mobility, rather than tightly fitted
Trench coats are versatile and can be worn with anything from a little black dress to jeans
Trench coats are a versatile wardrobe staple that can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. While the classic trench coat is often associated with business or formal wear, it can also be paired with more casual outfits to create a chic and effortless look.
For a dressier approach, a trench coat can be worn over a little black dress, adding a touch of sophistication and polish to the ensemble. The structured silhouette of the trench coat complements the simplicity of the LBD, resulting in an elegant and timeless combination. To complete the look, opt for a pair of sleek heels and a statement clutch.
On the other hand, trench coats also pair well with more casual attire, such as jeans. For a stylish and relaxed outfit, try teaming a trench coat with your favourite pair of denim jeans and a simple tee or blouse. This creates a put-together yet comfortable look, ideal for everyday wear. To add a touch of edge to the ensemble, consider choosing a pair of black or dark-wash jeans and finishing the outfit with ankle boots and statement accessories.
The versatility of trench coats also extends to different styles and colours. While the traditional beige or khaki trench coat is always a classic choice, modern variations include denim trench coats, which offer a more casual and playful take on the traditional style. Denim trench coats are perfect for layering over dresses, as suggested by Lyst, creating an on-trend look that can be paired with boots for a stylish finish.
Additionally, trench coats come in various lengths, from classic knee-length styles to longer, ankle-grazing designs. When wearing a trench coat with jeans, consider opting for a longer trench coat style, as the added length can create a more flattering silhouette. Conversely, when pairing a trench coat with a dress, either a classic or longer trench coat can work well, depending on the desired look.
In conclusion, trench coats are a versatile piece that can easily be dressed up or down. Whether paired with a little black dress or jeans, the trench coat's timeless style and structured silhouette make it a versatile addition to any wardrobe.
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Trench coats are made from a variety of materials, including leather, faux leather, wool, and cotton
Trench coats are made from a variety of materials, each with its own unique characteristics and advantages. Here is a detailed guide to help you understand the different fabrics used in trench coats:
Leather:
Leather trench coats offer a timeless and sophisticated look. Genuine leather, such as sheepskin, is often used in trench coats for its durability and warmth. Leather trench coats are usually on the heavier side and are ideal for colder seasons. They have a sleek and polished appearance, making them a popular choice for those seeking a stylish and long-lasting garment.
Faux Leather:
Faux leather, also known as synthetic leather, is a popular alternative to genuine leather. It is made from various materials, including polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or polyurethane (PU), to mimic the look and feel of real leather. Faux leather trench coats are often more affordable and accessible than genuine leather options. They can be found in a wide range of colours and styles, offering a trendy and cruelty-free alternative.
Wool:
Wool is a natural fibre known for its exceptional warmth and softness. Trench coats made from wool are ideal for cold weather as they provide excellent insulation. Wool trench coats are typically durable and water-resistant, making them a practical choice for harsh weather conditions. They have a classic and elegant appearance, often associated with sophistication and refinement.
Cotton:
Cotton is a versatile and widely used fabric for trench coats. It is breathable, lightweight, and comfortable, making it suitable for various climates. Cotton trench coats can be found in different weights and weaves, such as gabardine, poplin, or cotton twill. Gabardine, in particular, is known for its tight weave, giving cotton trench coats a crisp and structured silhouette. Cotton trench coats are easy to care for and are often water-resistant, making them a practical and stylish choice.
In addition to these primary materials, trench coats can also be found in blends, such as cotton-polyester or cotton-viscose blends, which offer the benefits of multiple fabrics. These blends can provide added durability, wrinkle resistance, or a slight stretch for a more comfortable fit.
The variety of materials used in trench coats allows individuals to choose based on their specific needs, whether it's for warmth, breathability, or style. Each material offers unique advantages, ensuring that there is a trench coat suitable for any occasion or weather condition.
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Trench coats come in a range of colours, including traditional shades of camel, khaki, sand, stone, navy blue, and black
Trench coats come in a wide range of colours, including traditional shades of camel, khaki, sand, stone, navy blue, and black. These colours are timeless and easy to style, making them a versatile option for any wardrobe.
Camel trench coats, for example, can be found in various shades, from light tan to dark brown, offering a perfect balance between warm and cold tones. Khaki trench coats, with their earthy and subtle hue, are another popular choice, providing a neutral base that complements most outfits. Sand-coloured trench coats offer a similar appeal, with a slightly lighter and brighter tone. Stone-coloured trench coats, on the other hand, tend to lean towards cooler grey or beige shades, creating a sophisticated and understated look.
Navy blue trench coats provide a stylish alternative to the more traditional colours. This shade is particularly versatile, pairing well with other colours and offering a modern twist on a classic design. Black trench coats, though less common, are also a stylish and versatile option, easily paired with casual or formal attire.
In addition to these classic colours, trench coats can also be found in a variety of other shades, including pastel pink, olive green, mint, coral red, charcoal, and cream. These less conventional colours offer a unique and playful take on the traditional trench coat, allowing individuals to express their personal style and make a statement.
Whether you opt for a traditional or unconventional colour, the trench coat's versatility and timeless design make it a worthwhile investment piece that can be seamlessly integrated into any wardrobe.
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Trench coats are typically double-breasted with ten buttons, but single-breasted versions are also available
Trench coats are a timeless piece of outerwear that have seamlessly transitioned from the battlefield to the world of women's wear. They are typically double-breasted with ten buttons, but single-breasted versions are also available. The double-breasted style is the traditional cut of a trench coat, with wide, overlapping front flaps and two symmetrical columns of buttons. One column of buttons is usually decorative, while the other is functional. The functional buttons are placed on the outside edge of the coat breast, allowing the overlap to fasten reversibly, with the left lapel going over the right.
The single-breasted style, on the other hand, has a narrow overlap and only one column of buttons. This style is more fitted and may be preferred by those who want to avoid the bulkiness that the double-breasted style might create. Single-breasted trench coats often have open lapels and can be buttonless.
Trench coats are known for their versatility, and this extends to the variety of styles available. Whether you prefer the classic double-breasted look or the more streamlined single-breasted version, there is a trench coat to suit your needs.
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Trench coats are designed to be looser for added mobility, rather than tightly fitted
The sleeve of a trench coat should reach the root of the thumb, completely covering the sleeves of the garment underneath. Anything longer than that will make the wearer appear as if they haven't yet made it to the alterations tailor.
While there is not one traditional length for a trench coat, the most versatile coats are worn at about knee length. Shorter trench coats were introduced during World War I to aid movement in the cramped and narrow trenches.
The trench coat's raglan sleeves, which made their debut in the 19th century, also aid mobility and ease of putting the coat on over bulky layers. The diagonal sleeve heads are named after an aristocrat: FitzRoy Somerset, the 1st Baron Raglan.
The cuff straps at the base of the sleeve can be tightened to keep out the elements, such as rain and wind. The cuff straps also allow binoculars to be secured when in use.
The belt of the trench coat enables the wearer to create an attractive silhouette by cinching and defining the waistline. The belt was also used by soldiers to suspend items of equipment, such as grenades or a sword.
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Frequently asked questions
Trench coats are not formalwear and are best suited for smart casual or business casual looks. They are versatile and can be worn with suits, sweaters, and casual trousers like jeans.
Trench coats are typically knee-length, made of lightweight cotton or wool, and feature a belted waist, raglan sleeves, and double-breasted closures. Overcoats are generally longer, reaching mid-calf or ankle length, and can be made from a variety of fabrics, including wool, cashmere, or heavy-duty cotton.
Trench coats are not suitable for formal events that require a higher degree of attention to dress codes, such as black-tie or white-tie affairs. For such occasions, it is best to opt for a more formal overcoat.
Trench coats are versatile and can be styled in various ways. You can wear them open with the belt tied at the back or wrapped around the front with the coat unbuttoned. Experiment with different colours like burgundy, navy, hunter green, brown, or black, and pair them with items like boots, pointed-toe flats, or high heels.
Recommended brands for purchasing trench coats include Burberry, Aquascutum, Mackintosh, Brooks Brothers, and Paul Stuart. For a more affordable option, you can explore vintage stores or eBay for pre-owned coats.