3 Best Ways to Wear Trench Coats : Casual, Formal, and for Work

The trench coat enjoys fashion staple status. It is virtually present in every woman's wardrobe in the West. It is versatile, practical, and always on-trend, but how do you style it? Does it go with anything? Can you wear it during all seasons, or is wearing one limited to the cooler months of fall?

 

In this style guide, we'll cover the different types of trench coats, as well as how to wear them with different types of clothing.

 

What is a Trench Coat?

 

The first thing we need to talk about is what a trench coat is. A trench coat is a double-breasted coat typically made of showerproof gabardine and comes with a belt. Other defining features of the trench coat include pockets, storm flaps, a back vent, epaulets, and wide lapels.

Most people interchange the trenchcoat with the pea coat, but they're very different from each other. Though they may look alike at first glance, the pea coat is typically made of wool, shorter in length, and with fewer military details.

 

The trench coat, on the other hand, is always made of lightweight, waterproof material, and is made with most of the features of its original predecessor, which were military raincoats worn by British soldiers in the 1st to 2nd World Wars.

Today, there are boundless styles, lengths, and colors of trench coats. Some are single-breasted while others come in a short length, and some are found in traditional neutral colors, while some are made with some of the brightest colors in the color spectrum.

 

Styling the Trench Coat: Casual, Formal, and for Work

Contrary to popular belief, the trench coat is not just a piece of outerwear worn during the rainy season. Trench coats can be worn at any time of the year, and with almost any type of outfit. As long as you choose the appropriate material, color, and length of the trench coat, your casual, formal, or corporate outfit will go well with this outerwear staple.

 

Trench Coat for Casual Wear

The most popular way to style a trench coat for casual wear is by wearing a plain black T-shirt with a pair of jeans. Choose a mid-length coat that falls on the calves, and wear it with or without the belt. A shirt and jean combo is the go-to casual wear for errands and putting on a neutral-colored trench coat is the perfect way to add stylish outwear to your look. 

Wear ballet shoes with your look for spring, or ankle boots when it's a little more chilly outside. If the sun is out, carry a Jane Birkin-inspired basket bag for a French look, while a black leather satchel is perfect to pair with black doll shoes.

 

Trench Coat for Corporate Wear

Wear a knee-length sheath dress, black pumps, and a long trench coat for a powerful and corporate look. Make sure your trench coat is longer than the hem of your dress to create a powerful vibe. Wearing your trench coat without the belt is a great idea to show off your dress.

If you're wearing a button-down shirt and slacks, or a pantsuit to the office, a shorter trench coat is a good idea. A coat that falls on the thigh will make your legs look longer, and give your body shape.

 

Trench Coat for Formal Wear

A trench coat may not be the first thing on your mind if you're wearing a little black dress or a gown to an event, but you can definitely pull it off. Women's trench coat black styles are not so common but they are the best styles to wear with a formal outfit. Black is always perfect to wear at night and wearing a short coat cinched at the waist with an evening gown is the perfect way to add a little warmth and style to your formal wear.

 

Summary

Trench coats are a must-have in every woman's wardrobe but they're not just any regular piece of outerwear. They're made to protect you from the rain and the elements, but when you wear one with style, a trench coat will be all that you need to look effortlessly chic and stylish.