Trench: beige, black, red, or green?

So I've been keeping an eye out for a new spring trench coat. I already have in my possession a long dark red trench coat that is a bit too big, and a short beige one that is a little too small. I somehow managed to get tiny spots of red wood stain all over the beige one that would not come out, so I drew some funky swirls on it with a black fabric marker. So it's now definitely in the funky/casual category!

I'd like another trench that fits better and is more appropriate to wear with a dress for formal events, but still looks ok with jeans. Despite the popularity of trenches I've had a heck of a time finding any in my size this year so far. The ones I've seen are either too expensive, out of stock, or in colors that I don't like.

Anyway, I'm pondering the following items on you-know-where, provided they stay in my price range. These are my thoughts on them:

1 -- beige, seems a little ho-hum, the longer length might be a bit dowdy, not sure if I like the rounded collar.

2 -- black with a hood, perhaps too casual to wear with formal dresses.

3 -- ordinary short black, double breasted may not be that flattering on my tubby hourglass-y body, but otherwise would be pretty versatile.

4 -- green short, nice shape, probably the best quality of the lot, but is emerald green too limiting? I have tons of green things in my wardrobe already.

5 -- red mid length, shape is ok but it is described as a "pinky red" and I am really not a pink person. It is described as this season's version, and if it is the one still available on the original seller's website, it is far more pink than red.

What are your opinions?

This post has 5 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.

14 years ago

Janet

(website)

Veteran

I'm totally biased because I love the color (regardless of whether it's trending), but I'd go for the green. I am getting loads of wear from my teal trench.

Jjsloane

I like the looks of 3 and 4 best. I like the green color. I'm not sure on the double breasted on the others. I do like the pink, but if you don't do pink that wouldn't be wise.

missvee

I agree with Janet - the green one is the winner here. It's a versatile colour, and the single-breasted styling means that it will look good buttoned up or open. I also like the shape of the lapels (not too big).

Anonymous

Oh, I think the green one for sure! It's good quality, the single-breasted style is sure to be flattering and the fact that you already have a lot of green in your wardrobe tells me that the color is an *element of love* for you. It will look so much better with your coloring than black, IMO. I don't think it will be limiting. Wear it with anything and everything even if the greens almost match but don't! You have that nice black puffer so I think green for spring will be perfect!

Isabel

I am really loving the green too. But frankly, you can't go wrong with this.

Sarah A

i like the single breasted style of #4 as well. i think that if you wear a lot of green and therefore it is one of *your colors* (along with a good fit and classic style etc etc) it will never be considered too dated. i remember Angie doing a post to this effect as well.

Vix

From what you say about how you want to dress your shape, your fondness for green, and what you want -- another vote for the single-breasted green.

Gorgeous color and really pretty versatile. Look at nature.

Angie

Fashion Stylist

If you want the trench to double duty for formal events, it's best to go for a knee-length style sans hood and in black. Keep the fabric quite dressy and not overly casual.

I really like the short colourful trenches too, Mander. But those serve a different function.

Meredith1953

The black trench in #3 will be most versatile but I really love the color of the green one!!

Mander

Of course, there is always this one! A bit pricier than the others, but definitely fun.

I think of the ones I posted earlier, I am more likely to go for the green one and keep looking for a dressier black one. It has been surprisingly hard to find one in plus sizes at any price point below £100 or so. I did see one in a shop the other day but it had a big ruffle down the front, and I'm not sure whether that detail would get boring/dated quickly.

This post has 1 photo. Photos uploaded by this member are only visible to other logged in members.

CocoLion

I like #3 by far the most because of its cut. It has the smartest chicest style IMO.

But if black is too dark for you, I'd hold out for something with a similar cut but in a brighter color.

Category