Let's talk trenches! - YouLookFab Forum

Category

Dressing

Welcome! Read about what to wear and how to wear it on the YLF Blog. Join the YLF Forum to ask specific questions or just chat about fashion and personal style. Or check out the curated list of things we love in YLF Finds.

Outfits Ensembles Trends Advice

Let's talk trenches!

Greenjeans

Veteran

Do you own a trench coat? If so, how/when do you wear?

I feel very drawn to them! Especially the ones below. However, they're not popular where I live and so I feel a little confused about how/when to wear and what they're for. My climate: toggles between snowy and hot and is on the arid side. (We don't get a lot of rain and it can seem like it's either summer or winter with very short spring and fall).

To my eye, they skew a little dressy. People dress very casually where I live and outdoor wear tends to be gear. People dress in layers. I'm worried, because of the length, that a trench would be either too warm or not insulating enough for my climate.

Is a trench coat meant to be a rain coat? So confused.

Show me your favorite trench coat and tell me how you wear!

View Info

View Info

Dressing

44 replies

Latest reply was from Greenjeans

Runcarla

Veteran

Trenches get worn as soon as a second layer is required and until it is cold enough that an under-layer isn’t enough to keep me warm. That usually means spring (March-May) and fall (September - November). One of my trench coats is cotton, and does not shed rain at all, while the other is quite wind and water resistant. Mine are shorter than the ones you show. I LOVE both of my trench coats, and wear them for all kinds of occasions, including urban rambles - but not hiking in the woods.

#1 black brocade - 5 yo
#2 Lilac - new this year

This post has 2 photos. Photos uploaded by this member are only visible to other logged in members.

If you aren't a member, but would like to participate, please consider signing up. It only takes a minute and we'd love to have you.

Molly Mac

Veteran

I own a very traditional looking trench coat. I have had it for @ 5 years and have worn it only a handful of times. If it is wet outside, I prefer my rain coats with hoods, and if it is chilly, I am reaching for something warmer. I keep it because it is always on the “clothes you should have” list, but am realizing that I am just not a trench coat girl.

Star

Veteran

I have a hip length red trench coat. It does not get too much wear precisely because here it also mostly summer or winter. It is not warm enough for winter and is too hot for summer. I keep it because it is a classic but I will never buy another.

Greenjeans

Veteran

Thank you, Star, Molly Mac and Runcarla! You're helping me understand that a reason trenches aren't popular where I live may be climate.

Is anorak the new trench? (I think so!)

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

I do, Greenjeans! I own a few. I wear them over anything. From cocktail dress to faded jeans with sneakers. It doesn't matter. You can wear them over leggings too.

The citron trench is 10 years old. The Hobbs two years old. I will have them forever, unless they are damaged.

I wear them in the rain with an umbrella.

View Info

Saskia Trench Coat

View Info

Top Pick

24

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

But when it pukka rains, I wear a raincoat:

Trina Trina Turk A-Line Rain Jacket

View Info

Top Pick

18

Levi's Levi's Water Repellent Hooded Parka | Nordstrom

View Info

Top Pick

7

Marks and Spencer

M&S Collection Cotton Hooded Parka Jacket

View Info

Top Pick

9

nemosmom

Veteran

I have struggled with trench coats. I love them in theory, I love the military vibe of them, and have tried a couple over the years (thanks to those darn "must-have" lists!!) Turns out, I am just VERY particular about my trench, and finally have one I love.

Where I live, winter is long, cold, snowy. Summer is about 3 months of humid heat. Shoulder seasons are brief.

Here is what I've boiled it down to (for ME):

1. Weight or insulation of the jacket doesn't really matter. I am fine layering under it, sometimes with a down vest for extra warmth.

2. I LOVE a topper like a trench if I am running in/out of buildings a lot during the day, since the temperature inside is usually the polar opposite as the weather outside (I sweat in the grocery store in the winter!)

3. Traditional beige ones look terrible on me unless I am wearing color near my face.

4. Shape, style, and length are key. I find that I look better in a trench that has a substantial collar, non-shiny buttons, and knee-length or longer. Interior pockets are always a plus.

5. It turns out that although I am drawn to a very military vibe, I don't like how I feel wearing it. I do prefer to wear a much simpler style.

6. I like to switch out the belt sometimes, or wear it open like a duster, with the belt tied in the back.

Maybe it's just a matter of doing a deep dive into the particulars of what you like? If you have secondhand options near you, it's a great way to test out different styles to find one that works for you.

Runcarla

Veteran

This is an interesting thread, so I’m back! I really like a trench as a layering piece - when it might be just above freezing in the am, but warming up dramatically (high teens C) during the day, then cooling down again. In pre-Covid days, month long adventure travel abroad occurred during the shoulder seasons and a (short) trench was a workhorse. Ireland and England the month of April, and England and Scotland the month of September - layered over a light leather jacket - it was perfect for the coldest days, and by itself for ‘warmer’ ones. These days I use a micro puffer under for extra warmth.

The design elements I particularly love about trench coats is the ability to ‘pop’ the collar, and the tie at the waist. I dislike epaulettes (on any garment) so will not buy a trench coat that has them! Like nemosmom, I’ve switched out the cloth belt for a leather one in some instances. Button down shirts, and shirt waist dresses are all in my wheelhouse - and share similar design characteristics.

Greenjeans

Veteran

Great comments, everyone! Thanks so much for joining me in this convo.

I want to feel lightly protected from elements (wind mostly, plus sun and rain) in something longer than a windbreaker or fleece jacket. I want to be able to walk outside on trails in woods and fields, and not feel overdressed. Something with gear-like properties but that has more drape/flow.

"Maybe it's just a matter of doing a deep dive into the particulars of what you like?" Thank you, nemosmom! This is a great question and super-helpful! (Single breasted to start, waist definition, color, no fancy trims, epaulets and such.) I feel like I'm getting somewhere.

Runcarla, you are speaking my language. I love tie waists and collars that pop, too! Micropuff is a solution, I think, for creating warmth.

Angie, your trenches are fab! Thank you for sharing. Your color sense inspires me - I adore trenches with color. I am loving the shape and length of the yellow Levi's rain jacket and wish I could get in a fabric that doesn't read "raincoat."

AndiB

Veteran

I have two traditional trenches, one black one tan, both a tad snug fir the last couple years. I replaced them with a tan single breasted, about knee length. And a similar black though the black is ... chic? Not sure how to explain, just lovely drape to it, vented back, no belt or bling. I think I have moved away from classic trenches to a less fussy, more simple style. I haven’t reached for the classic models... well, since they actually fit I guess haha. Would not take much to get back into them, might even fit as I’ve dropped a few. MAybe I’ll pull em out and take a look

JAileen

Veteran

I love the look of a trench. But it’s either too hot or too cold here, and I can’t find one that fits, anyway. Yet I keep buying them and returning them. The latest one was the red Pendleton trench from NAS. It was beautifully made, but didn’t fit across my shoulders.

Joy

Veteran

My most worn trenches are leather, one black and one a pale nude color. Both are long and worn in transitional weather or with layers underneath and both are used from charity shops. A longer trench is warmer And gives more protection from the weather.
I always try to own a black trench for funerals and to wear over something dressy. With warm layers underneath it can be worn in winter if you are not out too long.
Rain, a really rain proof coat that does not sound crunchy when you walk is hard to find. My current one is not a trench but a utility coat from REI in a small light grey print on cream. I think it is a nylon/ cotton blend.. You need something very waterproof for travel in Europe. I have been soaked by an umbrella dumping water down my back and onto my rolling suitcase in Venice. A rolling suitcase is not a good idea for all the stairs getting over canals anyway.

nemosmom

Veteran

YES! Start with the must-have (or must avoid) features of the potential jacket and work from there.

If you want water-resistant without noise, look at waxed options. They take some annual maintenance (more/less depending on how much you wear it) but TOTALLY worth it. Also, a durable fabric (like twill) can always be scotchguarded or otherwise weatherproofed.

Style Fan

Veteran

I love trench coats. I have one that I wear in the Spring and Fall with jeans and anything else that I might be wearing. I am in a rural environment right now, and most people dress casually, but I am wearing my trench whenever I get the opportunity.
When I bought my trench 15 years ago, I planned to keep it forever. It is a creamy warm tan colour. It works for me but may not be the best for everyone. It is a Burberry and is worth every penny. I don't wear it as a raincoat.

This post has 2 photos. Photos uploaded by this member are only visible to other logged in members.

If you aren't a member, but would like to participate, please consider signing up. It only takes a minute and we'd love to have you.

Saks Fifth Avenue

Burberry Brit Marystow Double Breasted Trenchcoat

View Info

Top Pick

6

Preppy Pear

Veteran

Big yes to trenches! I have the J.Crew tan icon trench. I always tie the belt, never buckle. I wear it as an extra layer over everything, including blazers, so I have to have enough room in the arms and shoulders for that. I wear mine with jeans and sneakers all the time, so I don’t think of it as dressy.
I don’t wear short jackets like motos or denim jackets, so in cool weather it’s my most frequently worn outer layer. (I could probably stand to add more trenches to my wardrobe.)
It keeps me fairly protected with an umbrella. If it’s really pouring, I wear a rain slicker with a hood.

Greenjeans

Veteran

Ooh, Style Fan, beautiful dog (and trench!) and I'm digging the rural vibe.

Hi, Preppy Pear, thanks for chiming in, have yet to check out J.Crew and heading over to their site now.

In the meantime, I'm liking what COS has to say on this topic . . .

View Info

View Info

View Info

nemosmom

Veteran

ooooh, all three are great! Keep us posted!

Minaminu

Veteran

I have a cream trench, which is incredibly versitile and surprisingly doesn't get dirty very easily! I tend to use it during spring and early summer, I can layer with light clothes and don't feel any cold. It's perfect for warm rainy windy days.

I don't wear it during autumn, I prefer a light wool coat which works better for me as autumn in the UK tends to be windy and cold but it doens't rain that often.

View Info

View Info

Greenjeans

Veteran

Ha! Sundance Catalog has named their tencel trench, "Purposeful Travel Coat." I think what I'm looking for is an "Emotional Walking Coat."

Sweet cream, Minaminu! Simple and classy, it looks versatile and I would totally wear.

View Info

rachylou

Veteran

I have a black H&M trench. Like, JAileen I usually find it either too hot or too cold to wear, but sometimes it really does the trick and is useful. Must say, in the old days I always found a trench with a removable insert for warmth very useful for travel in Europe. Just Europe tho, lol.

Jaime

(website)

Veteran

I do have two versions of a trench coat but they are generally not my favorite style. I do not have a waist and need a more structured one in my clothes if I want to pretend. A macintosh (coat not apple nor computer) is much better on me.

Suz

(website)

Veteran

I love trench coats. But for me, a true trench would feel too dressy for wear on the trails. For that kind of walking I want an anorak or field coat of some description.

I own two real trenches and I plan to buy at least one more over the next few years, possibly two. My current trenches are both black, which is not ideal for me. I am hoping to get a navy one to substitute for the black, and a beautiful light colour like Carla's at some point, too.

The London Fog trench was one of my first YLF purchases! It's still going strong. Didn't get much wear back east but is an urban workhorse (when the pandemic is not on) here in the west. Great for commuting.

The Theory was a YLF gift (from another Fabber!) and WOW has that proved its worth over the years. It does not wrinkle so I have packed it for innumerable trips, as Carla describes, and its shorter length and slight fullness mean it looks great with slim bottoms -- either slim straight trousers or jeans, skinnies (back when we wore those) or pencil/ tube type skirts and sheath dresses.

My more casual raincoats include the Pendleton (new last year -- truly waterproof) and the J. Crew -- which is waxed cotton, and was at one time surprisingly rain-worthy and extremely wind-proof --- though the wax is mostly gone now. I have received great instructions from Fabbers about how to renew it, but I fear it might not be worth it since the corduroy collar is worn out and the cuffs are also very worn. I say fear, because I love this coat with a passion that knows no reason. Layers well. Multo pockets. Can look uber casual OR can be dressed up enough and looks a bit "cool" with dressier items -- juxtaposition. They have not made this again although I can't think why because it got so many five star reviews you couldn't count them.

View Info

London Fog London Fog Women's Midi-Length Trench Coat

View Info

Top Pick

2

Port Madison Hooded Raincoat

View Info

Top Pick

5

Long downtown field jacket

View Info

Top Pick

8

Liesbeth

Veteran

With the help you've already received, I think you're on your way to finding a trench that works for you. It helps that these days they seem to come in all types of fabric weights and cuts so you're bound to find one that agrees with your climate.
I like the style and owned one in my twenties. But at the moment I am set for shoulder season jackets with two leather ones, a heavier denim jacket and an anorak. I find these more casual jackets great to wear both casually and over work outfits to make them a bit edgier. To compensate for not owning a true trenchcoat I bought a raincoat from the brand Rains that is cut like a trench. At least on rainy days I can get that classic British vibe ;).

View Info

Jane

Veteran

I have two trenches, a Burberry second hand and classic. Then a Hobbs trench in petrol blue, I like it but prefer the full length Burberry.

If it is full on rain, then I have a pink sowester (spelling?) with pink detachable warm lining, complete with hood from Ilse Jacobsen. Fine for home but if I wear to work I feel like a blamanche (pink wobbly jelly like pudding in the UK - spelling?)

Janet

(website)

Veteran

I have one trench -- a classic Burberry thigh-length but in teal. Beige/tan/camel is not me, but teal is! I bought it maybe 8 years ago and only wear it a few times a season, but I love it and will likely keep it forever.

My life is super casual these days, so a trench often feels a little too dressy and I find it easier to reach for a moto jacket or bomber or other more casual topper because I have a lot of them. Plus we don't have a lot of in-between weather -- the wearing season for a trench is kind of short here.

The other thing that reduces how much I wear it is that I bought it at a time when I was a size smaller than I am now. It still fits, but it's not easy to layer underneath unless I leave it unbuttoned, which is not the most appealing look for a classic trench.

ETA: I just realized that this Alice & Olivia leather trench I got last year qualifies as a trench! Oops! I had a black leather trench on my wish list for a long time. This one is gorgeous and makes me feel like a million bucks. It doesn't button closed and it isn't the most practical trench in the world, so again, limited wearing opportunities (especially this year, sigh), but it's a special piece I'll keep forever and enjoy wearing when I have the opportunity.

View Info

View Info

The Cat

Veteran

I have had several trenchcoats in my life, got my first in 1968. I prefer mine to be midi length, and I have worn them as outerwear in spring, summer and fall, over anything from casualwear to partywear. Unfortunately, I don't own any now. I am on the outlook for one that is NOT beige or brown. A midi trenchcoat in burgundy, lilac/purple, medium denim blue, teal, white, grey, pinkish brown or navy would be very welcome in my wardrobe.

I wouldn't call a trenchcoat a raincoat. Of course, you can wear a trenchcoat on a rainy day, but you will need an umbrella as well.

Penny

Veteran

More love for trenches - I realized a few years ago that moto jackets aren’t my style, and wear my trench (recently replaced during this year’s NAS) when others might wear a moto jacket or light jacket in the spring or fall, before switching to my heavier wrap coats. It’s also good for flights (whenever we can do that again!) when traveling between climates. My style skews dressy, though - I prefer knee-length outerwear over my dresses, which I wear year round.

View Info

slim cat

Veteran

I used to have one trench coat from Banana Republic. It wasn't traditional one, much slimmer version in navy color ( I got rid of the belt right away - no waist ). Like @shevia I need some structure and less bulk/fabric in my coats/jackets.
I like the idea of the rain coat or anorak.

Greenjeans

Veteran

I am loving the blues/navy and teal! Thank you Penny, Janet, Liesbeth and Suz for sharing. These are all fab for different reasons.

For people interested in learning more about the history of the trench, check this article out which explains more about the trench/gear connection/what it was originally designed for, and how it became a status item. Military Necessity To Fashion Accessory.

Leaning toward anorak at the moment. Thank you, The Cat and slim cat, for chiming in!

Ha! Jane, I know what you're saying (because love wobbly pudding).

12