A well-chosen designer trench coat is one of the few pieces that works across autumn, winter and spring. It sits over a suit, a knit or a simple shirt and jeans, and it still looks considered. Because it is such a long-lasting purchase, it pays to know what to look for before you buy. Here is a practical guide to choosing the right one.
Start with the length
Trench coats traditionally fall somewhere around the knee, which gives good coverage and a classic outline. A slightly shorter coat is easier to move in and works well over trousers and boots, while a longer cut feels more formal and elegant. Try the coat on over the thickest layer you plan to wear beneath it, then check that you can raise your arms and sit down comfortably.
Think about fabric and weight
The fabric changes the character of a trench coat. Our Black Washed Cotton Denim Trench Coat Jacket at £890 has a relaxed, lived-in feel that suits casual outfits. For a warmer option, the Brown Virgin Wool Coat at £620 is made from virgin wool and is a natural choice when the temperature drops. Check the product description for composition and care details before you decide.
Choose a colour you will wear often
Black is the easiest to style: it works with grey knitwear, white shirts and nearly every shoe colour. The Black Double Breasted Trench Coat Jacket at £1,116 has the structured double-breasted front that many people associate with a classic trench. If you prefer something with more personality, the Black White Houndstooth Trench Coat Jacket at £1,341 brings in a houndstooth pattern while keeping a restrained palette. Brown tones, such as the wool coat above, look especially good with cream, navy and olive.
Check the fit through the shoulders
Shoulders are the hardest part of a coat to alter, so make them your first check. The seam should sit at the edge of your shoulder, and the coat should close without pulling across the chest or back. Sleeves should reach the wrist bone when your arms hang naturally, leaving a little room to show a shirt cuff or a watch.
Styling and care
Keep the rest of the outfit simple and let the coat do the work: a fine knit, tailored trousers and leather shoes is a dependable combination. Hang the coat on a wide, shaped hanger, brush it gently to remove dust, and let it dry naturally if it gets damp. Follow the care instructions on the label, and take wool pieces to a specialist cleaner rather than washing them at home.
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