There are few wardrobe staples as enduring—or as quietly powerful—as the trench coat. Season after season, it holds its place at the heart of every great wardrobe.
This year, the classic silhouette is experiencing a modern renaissance, with designers re-imagining its heritage details—think sharp lapels, storm flaps, belted waists—in fresher, more fluid shapes. The trench coat’s appeal lies in its versatility: polished enough for the office, casual enough for weekend chill-time, and effortlessly layered to transition between seasons.
marie claire’s Edit Of The Best Trench Coats:
- Best Classic: Camilla And Marc Evans Trench Coat, $900
- Best Long Line: Toteme Signature Trench, $1,860
- Best Oversized: & Other Stories Maxi Trench, $329
- Best Affordable: H&M Twill Trench Coat, $99.99
- Best Double-Breasted: COS Layered Trench Coat, $450
- Best Water-Repellent: Max Mara The Cube Orleans Trench, $1,715
- Best Minimalist: Camilla And Marc Dia Car Coat, $750
- Best Relaxed: Sézane Clyde Trench Coat, $570
This season, clean minimalism is making a strong case—and marie claire’s fashion Editor Jordan Boorman is all in on the trend. “For me, the Camilla and Marc Dia Car Coat is the trench, reimagined for the modern minimalist,” she says.
“I love its refined, streamlined design—no fuss, no excess, just a flawless silhouette and a cool, oversized sleeve. It’s the kind of piece you can throw over a sharp suit or relaxed denim and still feel instantly elevated. It perfectly captures the essence of understated luxury.”
But minimal doesn’t mean boring—nor does it mean abandoning the classics. In fact, a relaxed, modern take on traditional tailoring might just be the smartest style investment you can make this season. marie claire Editor Georgie McCourt agrees, pointing to the Camilla and Marc Evans Classic Trench as her top pick.
“The Evans Trench strikes that perfect balance between timeless and effortless,” she explains. “The twill fabric and double-breasted cut give it a classic foundation, while the relaxed fit makes it incredibly wearable day to day. I love styling it with tonal knits and tailored trousers—it’s my go-to for that refined, off-duty look.”
For those drawn to a more French-girl aesthetic, online editor Maddison Hockey is backing the Sézane Clyde Trench—a cult TikTok favourite. “I’m completely obsessed with the Clyde Trench,” she says.
“It’s got all the classic trench details—the collar, the belt, the neutral hue—but the oversized silhouette gives it this cool, borrowed-from-the-boys vibe. The checked lining and water-repellent finish are such thoughtful touches. It’s one of those pieces you’ll reach for again and again, rain or shine.”
Whether you favour sleek minimalism, relaxed tailoring, or French-girl ease, the message is clear: the trench coat remains a cornerstone of modern dressing—just with a fresh new perspective.
Below, explore our edit of this season’s standout trenches. From buttery-soft classics to sculptural updates on heritage shapes, these are the coats the marie claire team are investing in now, and wearing forever.
Why Is The Trench Coat Always In Style?
The trench coat’s timeless status comes down to three things: practicality, polish, and adaptability. Originally designed as military outerwear, the trench quickly became a symbol of modernity — from mid-century cinema icons to today’s fashion influencers, it remains a marker of cool confidence.
Now, contemporary designers are softening and expanding the silhouette. Oversized sleeves, dropped shoulders, lightweight fabrics, and muted tones are redefining the trench as something more relaxed and directional — while still rooted in its iconic DNA.
What To Look For In A Trench Coat This Season?
A great trench coat is about more than just the sum of its details—it’s a mood-setter, a wardrobe anchor, and a layering essential. When selecting your style, think about proportion, texture, and tone.
How To Style A Trench Coat?
For workdays, “layer a classic trench over structured tailoring, finish with leather loafers or kitten heels, and add a statement bag for polish,” advises marie claire fashion director Naomi Smith. “For off-duty, style with vintage denim, a white tee, and sneakers. Look for trenches with a relaxed cut or oversized fit for that effortless vibe.”
For date night, Smith advises draping a longer-line trench over a fitted knit dress or satin slip. “Add bold earrings and a sleek clutch for instant impact,” she says.
Experiment with cropped trench coats or ones in unexpected hues—khaki, stone blue, or clay—for a contemporary twist. But if in doubt? A camel or beige trench will never fail you.”
What Is The Most Popular Trench Coat Colour?
These days, trench coats come in every colour possible from neutrals to patterns and bold brights. The most popular trench coat is the classic camel or beige colourway, which is perfect for pairing back with everything.
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