Photo-Illustration: by The Cut; Photos: Getty Images, Retailers, Hanna Flanagan
For more of the Cut’s favorite fashion, beauty, and home finds, sign up for the weekly Cut Shop Newsletter.
Fall is the time of year when you think about updating your wardrobe with seasonal transition pieces, and a good trench should be the first thing on your list. Trench coats are the perfect staple for when the temperature begins to drop and the weather becomes unpredictable.
When you imagine a classic trench coat, you probably think all-weather, often khaki-colored, double-breasted design with structured lapels, and a waist-cinching belt. Am I right? Maybe designers like Burberry come to mind as well since the label has helped popularize the look since its inception. But your favorite cool-girl brands and affordable retailers — including COS, Everlane, the Frankie Shop, Uniqlo, and Mango — also have stylish trench coats for every aesthetic and occasion.
So this season, shop for your favorite camel coats and wintertime puffers, but don’t forget to add a transitional trench (or two) to your cart as well. Whether you’re looking for a sleek style to pair with your everyday looks, something durable to tackle the changing weather, or a style that’s ideal for layering, these are the 16 best trench coats the internet has to offer.
So, you’re looking for the best trench coats?
➼ The best classic trench coats
➼ The best textured trench coats
➼ The best fashion-forward trench coats
The Best Classic Trench Coats
A classic trench coat is conservative and timeless, just like the selections below. You’ll find investment pieces from Burberry (the brand behind the original trench) in addition to all-weather trenches from beloved brands that are a bit more accessible in terms of price point, including Mango and Uniqlo.
Photo:
Mango Classic Trench Coat with Belt
Material: 100 percent cotton | Size: XXS-4XL | Colors: Beige
It’s under $150, water-repellent, and classic in every sense of the word. What more could you ask for in a fall trench coat?
Photo:
Mayson The Label Long Trench Coat
Material: 96 percent cotton and 4 percent PU | Size: 0-14 | Colors: Tan
Say hello to a classic trench that’s both functional and flattering. Not only does it feature a water-resistant coating to protect against the elements, but its lightweight fabric creates a feminine drape, and it has a thick belt that helps cinch the waist.
Photo:
Uniqlo Trench Coat
Material: 100 percent cotton | Size: XXS-XXL | Colors: Natural, olive, black
At under $100, this Uniqlo trench is a total steal. The no-frills design is sleek and versatile. Plus, the relaxed fit makes it great for layering.
Photo:
Sézane Scott Trench Coat
Material: 100 percent organic cotton | Size: 0-16 | Colors: Camel, khaki, navy
Sézane is one of my go-to brands for mid-priced wardrobe essentials that are tailored to perfection and feel more expensive than they actually are. This trench coat is no exception. The no-frills design features large lapels, button ties on the shoulders and cuffs, and a removable tie waist belt. It’s available in this camel color and a khaki green hue.
Photo:
Burberry Kensington Heritage Trench Coat
Material: 100 percent cotton | Size: 0-16 | Colors: Honey, black, coal blue
If you’re looking to invest in a forever staple — a sophisticated piece that you can wear year-round — there’s nothing quite like a Burberry trench. The famous style features shower-resistant gabardine as well as the brand’s iconic checked lining.
The Best Textured Trench Coats
Even though you might want to wear a more traditional all-weather trench on days when it’s raining outside, why not break out some textured trenches when the skies are clear? You can switch up your look without having to worry about weather damage.
Photo:
Avec Les Filles Faux-Leather Patchwork Trench Coat
Size: XXS-XL | Colors: Ivory
A monochromatic patchwork pattern that will turn heads and the silhouette of a classic trench coat — all for under $200.
Photo:
NA-KD Belted Pu Trenchcoat
Material: 100 percent polyester | Size: EU 32-44 | Colors: Brown
Chocolate brown is the color of the season, and this faux-leather trench is the perfect way to incorporate it into your wardrobe. The slightly distressed material gives it a vintage look, while classic details like the lapel neckline, double-breasted button design, and adjustable belt makes it super-functional.
Photo:
Mackage Carmela Leather Trench with Belt
Material: 100 percent lamb leather | Size: XXS-XL | Colors: Black, garnet
This Mackage beauty is at the top of fashion and beauty writer Asia Milia Ware’s holiday wish list. Crafted from 100 percent lamb leather, the impeccably tailored, double-breasted trench features a straight-fit silhouette, detachable button collar, wide-notch lapel, removable belt, and welt pockets.
Photo:
Aligne Barnaby Reversible Check Trench Coat
Material: 70 percent organic cotton, 30 percent cotton; 100 percent organic cotton | Size: UK 14-22 | Colors: Multi-check
Can’t decide between a classic trench and a fashion-forward option? Well, with this reversible coat by Aligne, you don’t have to. The beige waxed side is just as chic as the heritage check side. Plus, it features cord details on the collar and cuffs.
Photo:
A.P.C. Beige Gaspard Coat
Material: 100 percent cotton | Size: S-XXL | Colors: Beige
Another great choice if you’re into the corduroy collar. This A.P.C. coat has concealed buttons and extra-long sleeves that create a cool, casual look.
The Frankie Shop Connie Faux Leather Belted Trench Coat
Material: 100 percent polyurethane | Size: One size | Colors: Black
With peaked lapels, padded shoulders, and a boxy silhouette, this maxi-length trench is the ultimate outfit-maker (you definitely won’t want to drop it off at coat check).
The Best Fashion-Forward Trench Coats
If you love the idea of a trench but want something a little less classic (and a little more trendy), scroll on to shop my selection of coats that have the flair you’re looking for. Even though some of them will not keep you dry or protect you from the elements, all five styles are sure to make a fashion statement.
Photo:
COS Layered Double-Breasted Trench Coat
Material: 80 percent cotton, 20 percent polyamide | Size: XXS-L | Colors: Beige/Khaki
The detachable khaki inner lapel gives this double-breasted coat a cool layered effect — and makes it feel more unique than other trenches on the market. Design features include shoulder epaulets, welt pockets, and a buckled belt.
Photo:
Norba Trench Macintosh
Size: XS-L | Colors: Tan, navy
While we love an oversize trench coat that gives off Matrix vibes, there is certainly a time and place for outerwear that has a more defined shape. This water- and wind-resistant piece from Norba is exactly that, thanks to the cinched waist and slight A-line cut. It features a zip-off hood, side pockets, and a high neckline that’s both warm and stylish.
Photo:
& Other Stories Short Trench Coat Jacket
Material: 100 percent cotton | Size: XS-L | Colors: Black, khaki, beige
This cropped version of the classic trench coat is another favorite of Milia Ware’s. It has an oversize fit and thick cuffs that make it ideal for layering over a sweater or hoodie.
Photo:
Tôteme Signature Trench Coat
Material: 75 percent cotton, 25 percent polyester | Size: 2-10 | Colors: Khaki
Say hello to one of my most-worn pieces of fall 2023 thus far — sure, it’s an investment, but I’ve definitely gotten my money’s worth! This double-breasted trench features a roomy, oversize fit and exaggerated proportions, so it makes a statement no matter what you wear underneath. The stiff material — in addition to details like double-wrap belted cuffs and monogram-logo lining — feels so luxurious. My only complaint? No pockets.
Photo:
Everlane The Modern Trench Coat
Material: 100 percent organic cotton | Size: XXS-XXL | Colors: Beech, black, cornstalk
Available in three neutral colors and a wide range of sizes, this flattering, slim-fit trench is beloved by market editor Morgan Evans. It’s fully lined and made from 100 percent organic cotton that’s nice and stiff (because no one wants a trench coat with a flimsy belt).