The trench coat is a fashion classic. A descendant of British military jackets and originally made from waterproof wool, not much has changed from its original design, buttons or even color. Yet this season, the creative directors of the most important brands in the world have taken it upon themselves to reinvent it, shortening the bottom, adding leather panels, pleats on the sleeves, and even contrasting check-print strips.
An essential for mid-season and spring, these trench coats are coming to relieve the ones you’ve got in your closet of duty. Here are the details so you can wear them in line with the new trends.
© GettyImagesLong, beige and with open sleeves
To update the typical double-breasted version, designers like JW Anderson focused on the sleeves, creating a deep slit from the shoulder to the wrist that opens it up and gives it a very different flow.
© GettyImagesUltra-feminine asymmetry
This garment that is so typical in film noir loses any androgynous aspect and becomes even more feminine simply because of the high-low hem. Burberry –the iconic trench coat designer– reimagined it in this way, and yes, kept its characteristic lightness.
© ZaraShort trench for variety
Want to be a part of this fashion trend? Then the Short Contrasting Trench from Zara ($119) is a clear choice. Short, with a magnificent lapel collar and in two kinds of material to wear buttoned-up with jeans and floral maxi dresses.
© GettyImagesMix and match
One of the proposals that caught everyone’s attention is the mixed trench coat from Ports 1961. Half thick poplin in timeless beige and the other half in silky check print. With a flawless finish, this trench unites two musts for the fashionistas!
© GettyImagesAlso in soft leather
Soft leather finds its most daring ally in the trench coat; and although it may seem like a contradiction, just admire the oversized trench with black leather panels from Rokh that, worn together, creates a striking design.
© ShopbopCombine more than one trend
Dare to wear more than one fashion trend, in just one garment, and give your style a renewal. The Metallic Trench Detail Trench from No. 21 has a slouchy fit, double-breasted silhouette and fabulous reflective gold patches that'll make you shine (Shopbop, $630).
© GettyImagesPleats and structure
Michael Kors is another designer who stays loyal to the trench coat in every fashion show; but this year he's taken it to the next level with unexpected triple pleats on the shoulders, while keeping the semi-rigid structure, ten buttons, cuff straps and s elf-tie belt.
© GettyImagesThe most practical trench
This outerwear essential has also seen a renewal by having denim incorporated into the design, like this one from Lutz Huelle. In midi-length and with discreet pockets, the designs that combine –perhaps– the timeless basics are sure to triumph in street style and in all the ladies’ closets!
© ShopbopAnd a reversible one?
Since the fashion trends are betting on unconventional trench coats, we’d like to suggest the Darlow Trench Coat from Baum und Pferdgarten, a reversible hybrid between a trench and a poncho with a minimal check print and iridescent hints given off by the luminous beige (Shopbop, $419).
Don't think twice, go with the least-predictable trench coat you can this season and you’ll be sure to be covering up in one of this spring's latest fashion trends.
