One piece of outerwear a fashion editor returns to time and time again has to be the classic trench: effortlessly chic yet utterly practical.
It’s a wardrobe workhorse all year round, but really comes into its own in September when we’re in between seasons, in between temperatures and in between downpours.
It’s the kind of piece you buy now and wear for ever, so you want to get it right.
But with so much choice, where to start? I took to the High Street to help you find the very best on offer – from signature double-breasted, longline designs to short, cropped capes, I tried them all.
Here are my seven standouts that are worth your attention…
Double breasted
High Street heavyweight Zara manages to deliver on everything, and trench coats are certainly no exception.
I love the lapel collar, and the deep khaki green is a smart alternative to the biscuit hue. It’s also water resistant, so you can see off any surprise rain showers in style.
Shower resistant
Stopping above the knee, this trench is a neat, modern take on the original.
The checked lining won me over immediately, as did the cord undercollar – those little touches make all the difference.
It’s water resistant and, in my opinion, worth the £219 if you have it. It feels robust while still being comfortable and beautifully lined – top quality, exactly as the price suggests. Oh, and it’s available in petite, too.
Single breasted
Crafted from organic cotton (a win for me), this single-breasted design comes without the standard belt and has a relaxed fit, running large – so you can easily wear a chunky knit underneath it.
The belted cuff, slanted pockets and horn-effect buttons give it a luxurious finish.
The hue is more a subtle stone than beige. The looser fit means it works particularly well dressed down with jeans and trainers.
Cropped
I’m not a huge fan of cropped styles, but this twist by & Other Stories on the classic needed a mention.
It’s very Toteme without the £2,000 price tag. It has the timelessness of a trench, but with shorter proportions so it sits just above the hip – meaning it looks great with high-waisted jeans or trousers.
The sharp pointed collar and boxy cropped cut are softened by an asymmetric storm flap.
Belted
At £45 you can’t go wrong with this double-breasted cut from Primark. It’s made of 55 per cent Lyocell and 45 per cent cotton, which is reflected in the price. It’s a lighter shade of beige, so it works brilliantly at lifting darker looks – great if you’re someone who lives in black trousers or indigo denim.
Very lightweight, easy to wear and an absolute bargain.
Longline
For those after a traditional trench, go for this longline style from Autograph at M&S.
With its storm flap, epaulettes and belted waist, it’s an iconic look that won’t go out of style. It’s 97 per cent cotton and 3 per cent elastane,so it has a little stretch, meaning it’s not as rigid as most. You’ll wear it for ever.
Hooded
Well done George at Asda for adding a hood to its trench, making the coat truly practical – you can look the part while genuinely being shielded from the British weather.
The taupe, almost mushroom colour is fab. Full disclosure, it’s 100 per cent man-made fibres, which doesn’t come as a surprise for just £38. It will be less hard-wearing than other High Street options, but for those on a budget this is the best choice.
