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Now that the cooler weather has properly set in, outerwear has officially moved from cosplay to necessity. (And I say that as someone who’s been known to break out a coat at the first whiff of a cold change – purely for the vibes.)
This post kicks off a new series on the blog spotlighting outerwear, and where better to begin than with the trench coat – that timeless, effortlessly cool layer we all think we own enough of… until the next great one comes along. It’s been a staple for decades, thanks in part to icons like Audrey Hepburn and Meryl Streep, who both proved that a great trench doesn’t date – it just gets reinterpreted.
It’s the ultimate in easy layering, works with pretty much everything, and makes you feel like you’ve got your life together even when you’re sprinting for the train.
From classic cuts to more statement options, I’ve rounded up a mix of long and short options from both the high street and contemporary labels. Whether you’re after a forever piece or just something to break up your puffer rotation, there’s something here that’ll do the trick.
The Long Trench
Sezane trench coat (sz US 4, FR 36), Henne asymmetric knit (sz 8), Anine Bing skirt (sz S), Wittner boots (current season version linked as mine are from last year), Gucci bag (review here – AU link, US link, UK link also here), Arms of Eve earrings*, Status Anxiety sunglasses*
There’s something about a longline trench that pulls an outfit together in one easy step. It adds shape, structure, and just the right amount of drama without feeling overdone. Whether layered over tailored trousers or thrown on with denim, a longer trench gives the impression you’ve made an effort – even when all you’ve done is make it out the door on time. Below are some of the best longer cuts I’ve come across this season – classic, softly oversized, and quietly statement-making.
Top row, from L to R:
- A classic lightweight trench from Country Road – Clean lines, no notes.
- This oversized trench from Arket – for a high street label, Arket’s quality is second to none.
- A statement trench from Alemais – A classic oversized silhouette in a beautiful print (featuring artwork in collaboration with Sam Pauletto – for when you want your outerwear to do the talking.
- The viral Sezane coat – single-breasted, relaxed, and has Pinterest in a chokehold.
Bottom row, from L to R:
- The Sezane trench that’s sold out more times than I can count – A forever piece in a neutral tone. I was so happy to finally get my hands on this one and have reviewed it here.
- This rosewood option from CR – A very wintery shade that still plays well with your basics.
- The amazing cape/trench hybrid from Alemais – technically a cape, but the drama and cute details are very welcome.
- A very cost-effective pick from H&M – $99 and looks far more expensive than it is.
The Short Trench
Arket trench (sz XS), Henne jeans (sz 27), Gucci loafers (watch my styling video here), Gucci bag (review here – AU link, US link, UK link also here), Status Anxiety sunglasses*
If you’re after something easy to wear and highly versatile, a short trench might be the answer. Ideal for in-between weather and daily layering, the cropped length works especially well with wide-leg trousers, dresses, and high-waisted denim. It’s also a great option if you’re on the petite side or want something that won’t overwhelm your frame. Here are a few standout styles I’ve bookmarked this season – a mix of polished, casual, and cleverly cut.
Top row, from L to R:
- The cult cropped jacket from Sezane – this is the shorter version of the popular Clyde trench featured earlier. It’s cropped just enough to work with dresses or trousers.
- The cool collarless one from Arket – Minimal and modern – a signature style that has been released for multiple seasons.
- An oversized warm-toned pick from Arket – A go-with-everything neutral.
Centre row, from L to R:
- An excellent dupe for the cropped Sezane jacket (at a fraction of the price) – Same vibe, friendlier price.
- The original Arket short trench – Clean, classic, no fuss. I’ve had mine for a few years (I’ve also got it in black) and it remains one of my favourite outerwear pieces
- A laidback option from Country Road – The off-duty one you’ll reach for more than you think.
Bottom row, from L to R:
- This on-sale utility jacket from CR – Looks designer, costs less than dinner and drinks.
- This fresh white option from Arket – Unexpected but oddly versatile.
- The ultra-affordable H&M trench – $59 (!) and surprisingly polished.
That’s a wrap on trenches – for now. Whether you’re team full-length or prefer something shorter and sharper, I hope this round-up helps you find a piece that makes getting dressed on chilly mornings just that little bit easier. In upcoming editions of the outerwear series, I’ll be diving into classic wool coats, athletic-inspired layers (for those weekend walks that may or may not end in pastries lol), and a few statement-making pieces for when your coat is the outfit.
As always, thanks for stopping by!
P.S. Want to keep updated with what I’m wearing? Check out my daily outfits here.
