A trench coat is a classic staple for the transitional weather. It’s one of the easiest items to use for layering your outfits when the weather is chilly. Sometimes you just need an extra layer and a trench is a comfortable and stylish option. It has become a staple item on every fashion runway but its origin is not so glamorous.

Originating from waterproof coats, called Macks in the 1820s, and intended to be worn for outdoor activities like fishing, riding, and military service. The original trench coat was more function than form. Modern-day trench coats have become more versatile, with so many different types of fabrics and styles to choose from. While some are still made with water-repellant fabric, others are made for extra layering and statement making outfits. Today I’m sharing fresh new ways you can style a trench coat.

Trench Coat Outfits

With so many styles, fabrics, lengths, and colors to choose from, this gives you endless opportunities for styling trench coats for different occasions. Adding a light layer to your spring or fall wardrobe is easy! Overall, a maxi or midi length trench coat will be your most versatile options. They can be worn with joggers and jeans, and even longer and more formal dresses. A short or cropped trench coat will give you a more casual vibe.

How to Style a Trench Coat

Casual Chic Trench Coat Outfit

The easiest outfit you can reach for! Use your trench coat as your third wardrobe piece and pair it with updated jeans and a colorful sweater. To make the look casually chic, add your wear-with-everything pumps (15% off with TARAFHM15)! I love this look for lunch with friends when the weather is just a little too cool. Keep the trench coat open for a more casual feel.

 

Elegant Trench Coat Outfit

A classic beige trench coat worn with printed trousers and pumps gives off a very elegant vibe. I love how the menswear-inspired pants paired with the ultra feminine pumps contrasts each other in such a classy way. This is a great office to evening type look. Notice how there are only 3 colors in this look- beige, brown, and black. You could also replace the black with beige. Keep the look from 2-3 colors or else it will be too busy. Wearing the Tailored trench coat with the Lola pumps (15% off with TARAFHM15).

 

Navy Trench Coat Outfit

While the classic beige trench is a timeless wardrobe staple, navy is your neutral alternative. It’s a nice transition into spring color, while it’s also a great transition into Fall color. That’s the great thing about navy. It’s an all-year-around neutral that goes with everything! Style this navy trench with a classic Breton stripe sweater for nautical vibes, or a light monochrome look to make the navy pop! Tan and red accessories are always a pairing with navy.

 

Casual Trench Coat Outfit

A trench coat even looks great with the most casual outfit. See how it elevates a simple joggers and sneakers outfit? To keep the look polished, I’m bringing in the black from the stripes on the adidas sneakers with the Toteme bag for a well put together yet effortless look. Wearing the Tailored trench coat in size XXS.

 

Pleated Trench Coat

I first fell in love with the Sandro pleated trench coat a few years back. It’s been such a popular coat, and I’m happy to say that they keep bringing it back. It’s a true classic! A forever trench coat that you will wear year after year. The tan style has full pleats in the front and the back. The new navy pleated trench is classic in the front, and party in the back! It is so different from your usual trench coat. It adds an elegant touch that only pleats can give! If you are like me and are always looking for something timeless yet unique, this is it.

 

Trench Coat with Ballet Flats

If you are looking for a Parisian inspired outfit, look no further than a trench coat with classic ballet flats! The epitome of French chic, ballet flats paired with ankle length jeans and a trench coat is always a good idea. Depending on the weather, you can wear a simple white tee underneath, a comfortable sweater, or even a tank top. The result is effortless chic.

 

Cropped Trench Coat

Cropped trench coats are another really cute way to make a casual outfit stand out. Just be sure to either tuck in your shirt or sweater, unless your shirt hem does not go past the length of the jacket. That way the look stays more polished. I love these cropped trench coats:

 

Sezane Scott Trench

The Scott trench coat is Sezane’s classic French style trench. It has a traditional cut for a more tailored look. Made from 100% organic cotton, this is a great trench coat option for petites (I’m 5’2″). The length is not too long but hits just right. Take your true size in this style if you want it to have a classic fit. Size up for a more oversized look. I’m wearing a size 0.

 

How to Tie a Trench Coat Belt

 

 

 

For a more casual look, I love to leave a trench coat open and let the belt hang down at the sides. It gives nice movement when you are walking. However it if want to keep the look more polished, you have multiple options. If you want to wear the trench coat open, you can create side knots in the back. This allows the belt to still hang down on the sides but it keeps the look more polished and put together. Alternatively, you can create a simple knot in the back. If you prefer to wear it closed, you can make a clean front-tie knot, or go a little more casual and create a halfway knot (just do’t pull it all the way through). This is my go-to option because it’s super easy but it can add a little bulk to a side view.

I hope you find this helpful and have some new inspiration for styling a trench coat!