You can tell Spring must be approaching as this weeks post is all about the most spring-like of all garments, the Trench Coat. It’s one of the building blocks in anyone’s wardrobe, and once you find the right one, you should never need buy another. Well, for at least a good few years anyway.
The Trench Coat was invented in the 1800’s by both Burberry and Aquascutum. There is some consternation as to who got there first, it’s all to do with the invention of the design and the fabric it was made from What came first? the gaberdine or the double breastedness? Who knows? but we do know that it was first used in WW1 as an alternative to heavy wool overcoats. SInce then, the classic design has barely changed, storm flaps, 10 buttons, belt, epaulettes and wrist ties almost always still feature.
These days they are worn by everyone, you don’t need to be in the actual trenches to wear a Trench Coat. Although in this current climate when we are all battling the elements of either disease or weather, a good protective coat is something we deserve. Next week’s post could well be how to style out a Hazmat suit, but I really hope it doesn’t come to that. Here’s the 5 types of trench you should know about…
CLASSIC TRENCH
Let’s start with the classic trench. If you’re after something that really won’t date at all then stick to something this one from Marks and Spencer. They do the best classic trench coats with all the features you would expect. They also come in 5 colours if beige isn’t your thing. I tend to never do my coats up up or use belts. Not even when it’s cold and raining, not sure why to be honest, it’s just a ‘thing’. I would tie the belt in a knot around the back so it gives the trench a bit of shape.
1. H&M AC/DC Printed T Shirt
2. & Other Stories Small Leather Handbag
3. Top Shop Considered Washed Black Straight Jeans
4. M&S Double Breasted Trench Coat
5. Isabel Marant Black Suede Dicker Boots
OVERSIZED TRENCH
If you want to go full flasher mode you will need an oversized trench that covers up everything! Why not try a tonal look? Although paradoxically this outfit is probably not best suited to wind and rain. I made the mistake this week of wearing a cream coat in the rain in London. It’s now covered in brown splash marks all along the hem line. Bloody dry clean only too. At least this Mango trench is 100% cotton and can go in the machine, which is much more practical for city living.
1. Mango Contrast Collar Trench
2. & Other Stories Dinosaur Button Cardigan
3. Mint Velvet Dakota Ecru Boyfriend Jeans
4. John Lewis & Partners Felicity Trainers
NAVY TRENCH
This outfit wouldn’t have looked out of place on the Diana blog from a couple of weeks back. I could see her wearing similar. The coat is from Alexa Chung’s new collaboration with Barbour. I came very close to purchasing something from her previous collection but I ummed and ahhed for so long that it sold out. Talking of Alexa, have you see ‘Next In Fashion’ on Netflix? I really enjoyed it, kind of like a less bitchy version of ‘Project Runway’ which I loved, but mainly for Michael Kors. I may look down my nose at those naff MK bags, but the man himself is legend. P.S. These Whistles jeans are still a hot favourite of mine from the big high street eans edit post.
1. Barbour by Alexa Chung Navy Trench
2. Coach Gathered Collar Blouse
3. Whistles Hollie Button Fly Jeans
4. Gucci Wool Logo Loafers
LONG TRENCH
If you’re planning on wearing your trench with your buffet dress then a longer length is what you need. Ideally I like my coat to be almost as long as my dress. Not always possible but close enough will do. This cotton coat from Yas is probably my top pick, I like the fact it’s less structured, lightweight and more casual. If we ever do get a warmish Spring this coat would be the ideal thing to throw over dresses. P.S. I’ve also got a bit of a thing for green dresses right now. I am debating which one I want to get. This one from &Other Stories is my current front runner.
1. Yas Long Pebble Trench Coat
2. A.P.C. Demi Lune Green Leather Bag
3. & Other Stories Smocked Abstract Print Dress
4. NIke Air Force 1 Sage Trainers
GREEN TRENCH
Talking of green, I couldn’t leave the Trench issue without including one in that colour. Possibly slightly more practical for reasons stated previously. Won’t show the dirt as easily as a cream number and just looks cool. I’ve had my M&S green trench for 4 years. It was part of the Alexa Chung (her again) collection from 2016 and I still get compliments pretty much everytime I wear it. I wish they would bring that style back. There are a few on ebay, but be warned they come up BIG! I have an 8 and I’m a 12.
Also, can we take a moment to admire this Barbra Sweatshirt from Coach? I couldn’t resist. Had to buy the mens version as women’s were already sold out, but I often buy mens sweatshirts as I like the looser fit. I got a medium. You also get money off if you sign up to their newsletter. Please tell me I’m not the only one who has about 5 email addresses just so I can take advantage of these kind of deals? I’ve even been know to use my kids emails to get those sign-up discounts…
1. La Redoute Long Green Trench Coat
2. Coach x Richard Bernstein Barbra Streisand Sweatshirt
3. Hush Green Joy Joggers
4. Nike Mid 77 Blazer Trainers
That’s all for this week. Stay safe out there people
K x
