The Trench Coat: Spring’s Re-imagined Classic

The trench coat is that staple piece in your wardrobe that doesn’t really stand out yet always delivers. It’s classic, timeless, and Hollywood icon worthy. Think Audrey Hepburn in the iconic final scene of Breakfast at Tiffany’s. She madly dashes out of the taxi cab, rain pouring, and donned in a trench coat to look for her lost cat. The trench coat carries us through many times and memories. It’s that silent piece that blends into the background and almost goes unnoticed.

Classic Trench Coat

The classic trench coat has remained pretty much unchanged over the years. This season, however, we are seeing a modern twist. Spring 2020 has a number of re-imagined classics that give your wardrobe a subtle and welcome update. The trench coat is no longer taken for granted, but stands out in a fun way this season.

As I previously mentioned in my Spring Trends You Probably Already Own post (you can read that here), this season’s trends are largely more practical than that of season’s past. There is an overall theme of recycling key staple pieces. The overwhelming call for more sustainability, and lower carbon footprint in the fashion world may be responsible. So how do brands provide a newer and fresher take on the classics? They add details!

Pleated Trench

While the classic military style trench will always be in vogue, for those of us looking for a fresh update, I’m happy to say, there are lots of options this season. This long pleated trench coat I’m wearing from Sandro, features another key Spring trend- pleats! Yes, pleats are in this season so keep your eyes out for this unexpected detail to show up in everything from coats, skirts (of course!), and tops.

What makes this Sandro trench coat so special is the flow of the fabric. The movement this coat gets from a little gust of wind makes it swoon worthy. The extra volume at the bottom, coupled with the cinched in tie-waist, gives the illusion of a dress. A perfect layering option for a formal event over a dress and heels. And by the way, I’m wearing the Sarah Flint Perfect Jay pumps in black. The slightly chunky tortoise heel makes it easy to dress up or down! New customers can take 15% off full-priced items with code SARAHFLINT-CCTARA1.

Pleats are not the only added detail to this season’s trench coats. How about a ruffle? It’s the perfect mix of feminine and subtle details. Here’s a collection of my favorite pleated and ruffles out there!

For a little bit more of a statement, try an unexpected color, print. This takes a simple outfit and makes it pop!

A Trench Coat Alternative: Cape

If you want something a little different than a classic trench, try wearing a cape. This unexpected style will attract compliments for sure! I am a brand ambassador for the Italian brand Marta Scarampi, and I am a huge fan of their dresses and capes! This chic alternative to a trench coat can be dressed up or down.

Let me know in the comments, which trench trend is your favorite!