The trench coat is timeless wardrobe staple piece. Lightweight yet sturdy, this transitional jacket is a convenient topper for in-between weather in spring or fall. Trench coats are often waterproof or water-resistant, which makes them even more convenient for transitional weather conditions and a stylish alternative for a rain poncho.
Our top pick for a classic style is the Madewell Signature Trench Coat — a khaki-colored, knee-length jacket with buttons, notched lapel, and minimal embellishments that's super versatile as far as pairing goes. It looks equally great over jeans and a t-shirt as it does over a little cocktail dress. If you're after a Matrix-inspired look, Quince's 100% Leather Trench is business-appropriate and still casually cool.
If you're looking to add a timeless trench to your wardrobe, here are some great options, from classic to trendy and everything in between.
Best classic trench coat
A classic trench is beige or khaki in color and falls to approximately knee-length. It has a double breasted design, an oversize notched collar, and a belt. You can count on the fact that this timeless look will never go out of style.
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Best overallThe classic dark khaki tie waist trench is easy to dress up or down and has a water-resistant coating.
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Best budgetFor a comfortable, slightly loose fit, try this cotton-nylon blend topper, which comes in five hues.
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Best splurgeThe label is known for popularizing the trench coat, and this pick includes its signature plaid lining.
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Best petiteThe belt can be worn two ways: knotted or threaded through a buckle.
Best trendy trench coats
Trendy trench coats redefine everything you know about a classic coat — and they're sure to make a statement in your wardrobe. They feature bold and playful colors or patterns, or they're crafted from unexpected fabrics such as denim or patent leather. Sometimes, all it takes is an updated silhouette with unexpected details such as puff sleeves or a cropped hemline.
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Best overallThis lightweight hooded waterproof windbreaker has a futuristic oil-slick sheen.
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Best budgetThis light-wash denim trench is a sophisticated version of your classic jean jacket.
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Best quiltedPop the oversized collar for extra wind protection on this quaint patchwork trench.
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Best pufferAn oversized puffy silhouette adds extra intrigue to this statement coat.
Best wool trench coats
Wool trenches offer added warmth, and can be worn comfortably in colder temperatures than traditional trench coats. Wool is a breathable fabric, which helps stave off moisture and is temperature-regulating.
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Best overallThis high-funnel neck zip-up wool blend cinches at the waist and keeps out biting winds.
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Best budgetA mid-length silhouette makes this wind-proof topper a perfect transition-season item.
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Best cashmereThe relaxed-fit coat hits below the knee and is made with a blend of Merino wool and super soft cashmere.
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Best wrapThe neckline on this voluminous wool cape coat is really a scarf. It has a drapey fit and front pockets.
Best leather trench coats
Whether you prefer traditional or vegan leather, a leather coat is a versatile closet staple with timeless appeal. A leather trench coat is perfect for transitional weather and manages to have both a vintage and modern look simultaneously.
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Best overallThis coat is surprisingly high-quality considering it's priced at a fraction of traditional retail costs.
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Best budgetAdd a pop of springtime color in this olive green faux leather with tortoiseshell buttons and buckles.
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Best plus sizeTry pairing this straight-cut black faux leather trench with white jeans for a high-contrast look.
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Best brownChannel the mob-wife aesthetic with this fur-trimmed chocolate trench.
Best plaid trench coats
Though a plaid coat may seem intimidating, it's surprisingly versatile. If you stick with a neutral color palette, you can easily pair it with nearly anything in your wardrobe. Colorful plaid designs make more of a statement and may work best with a more muted outfit underneath.
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Best overallComplimentary plaid and houndstooth patterns give this neutral-hued unlined coat a subtle twist.
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Best budgetThis lightweight earth-toned trench mixes plaids around its removable belt and wrist straps.
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Best colorfulThis boxy cobalt plaid duster also comes in a vibrant pink and fits over chunky sweaters.
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Best luxuryThis oversized jacquard knit is made in Italy with a padded interior and adjustable cuffs.
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