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12 best trench coats to shop now and wear forever
A lesson in capsule classics
Versatile, practical and lightweight enough to layer, the best trench coats are so much more than transitional heroes: they’ll see you through almost every situation, in any season. And given how temperamental the UK weather is right now, there's no better item to invest in.
From Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s to Meryl Streep in Kramer Vs Kramer or Kate Moss in countless Burberry campaigns – the trench coat has been seen as a signifier of good style for over a century. And, despite first being created for military purposes back in 1912, its appeal has lasted through decades of different dress codes. Because, thrown over everything from jeans and a Breton top to slinky slip dresses, its functionality immediately translates to effortlessness (a look more coveted than any It bag).
The wardrobe staple hasn’t changed much in that time; you can still find heavy cotton-gabardine numbers with the trademark storm flaps, buckles and belting everywhere from Burberry to Brunello Cucinelli. However, with so many re-interpretations debuting on the catwalk every season, it’s hard not to be tempted by fresh statement-making styles.
On the autumn/winter 2024 runways, trenches were loose and louche at Bottega Veneta and The Row, while Alexander McQueen and Balmain made a seductive case for slick black leather. But it was Chloé who really reinvigorated the silhouette, topping glossed leather styles with cropped, fluted capes, asserting a new signature silhouette for the house.
Still, when you’re spending money on a capsule classic, you need to think smart: invest in something with longevity, but don’t be afraid of subtle twists or playful details. From leather and denim styles to the most well-cut cotton contenders, we’ve rounded up the stars of the season. Here, see the 12 best trench coats to invest in now.
The best trench coats of AW24
Is there any fashion item more iconic than the Burberry trench coat? The military design was first dreamed up by Thomas Burberry in 1916, and its shape has shifted only a little since then.
Today, there are several iterations of the capsule classic, but The Kensington is the most true to tradition: it's made from waterproof cotton-gabardine, detailed with epaulettes, storm flaps, buckled collars and cuffs, and lined with that iconic check.
Seen on the runways at Proenza Schouler and Chloé, scarf-style details are a key outerwear trend for AW24. Massimo Dutti is (unsurprisingly) first past the high-street post, offering this crisp beige cotton coat. A bonus: you'll never lose your scarf in a sudden gust of wind.
A succession of chic, abbreviated capes set the Seventies tone at Chemena Kamali's debut runway show for Chloé, and this cotton-gabarbine trench is the smartest way to invest. Boasting supreme versatility (the cape can be detached to create a traditional silhouette) and finished with supple lamb-leather edging, it's a seasonal star with longevity to boot. Invest now, and love forever.
The only thing more practical than a trench coat? One with a hood. Guaranteed to spend more time on you than in the wardrobe, Me + Em's is made from water-resistant treated cotton and packed with properly considered details, such as the slanted side pockets that ensure a sleeker, bulk-free silhouette.
The Frankie Shop is known for creating the season's most in-demand wardrobe essentials (remember the wide-leg tailored trousers of 2023?) and this year the brand is coming for your outerwear. The Mavis is a slouchy, scaled-up design with sloping shoulders and a wide belt to cinch everything in: the perfect nonchalant cover-up for any weather.
A statement take on the traditional silhouette, Khaite's trench is cropped to the waist and crafted from caramel-beige leather. Wear it to break up the lines of an all-black look, or try it simply over a white tank and blue jeans.
A good trench is a key quiet-luxury player, and no-one knows that corner of the industry better than The Row. A true forever investment, the brand's Denver coat is crafted from softened cotton-poplin to a slightly cocooning take on the traditional silhouette, ensuring it looks just as chic left open as it does neatly buttoned up.
A denim trench will bring something less expected to weekend looks, yet is still every bit as classic as a cotton-gabardine style. Brunello Cucinelli's elegant take is made from dark indigo denim to ensure a polished result, and masterfully cut to a cocooning, ankle-skimming silhouette that cinches neatly at the waist.
Aligne's season-transcending Gilda trench coat has finally been re-stocked after multiple sellouts (in fact, it's actually on sale). A huge hit with the fashion set thanks to its dramatic maxi hemline, it's made from organic cotton and comes beige, oxblood or black.
All-black looks are the oldest and easiest trick in the book when it comes to styling (just Google Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen if you need confirmation). The cherry on top of a tonal outfit, Whistles's featherweight trench has a drapey cut and minimal fastenings.
Jigsaw has stayed true to the classic trench but added in some playful touches; we love the Eighties-inspired batwing sleeves and utilitarian D-ring belt. This oversized coat has already sold out multiple times this year, so add it to your basket while you still can.
A fashion icon with wide-reaching appeal, Barbour's heritage-steeped jackets are beloved by the likes Alexa Chung, Sienna Miller and The Princess of Wales. A lighter take on the brand's famed waxed designs, this trench is made from a showerproof coated cotton blend to keep you dry through unpredictable weather.
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