Trench coats are an absolute must-have in your wardrobe, particularly during the cooler months. Here’s our round up of the best trench coats to buy, from designer dupes to the classic and coloured trenches.
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Fashion history aside, trench coats are the embodiment of both functionality and effortless style, so it’s no surprise the wardrobe staple has emerged – once again – as winter’s must-have piece of outerwear.
Stylist Brooke Falvey says there are features to look for in a trench coat that ensure it’ll be an item you reach for over and over again.
“If you opt for a trench with timeless details and a neutral colour palette (beige is not boring!), you can’t go wrong, not now and not in five or 10 years’ time,” Brooke tells news.com.au.
“Plus, they’re ideal for times when the weather is unpredictable; throw it on over a light layer for milder autumn or spring days or add it over a knit for extra warmth.”
THE ICONIC’s Head of Style, Nicole Adolphe, agrees, telling news.com.au: “Trench coats are an absolute must-have in your wardrobe, as they offer versatility and style, particularly during the cooler months. With so many designs, fabrics and colourways on offer, it really is a staple we should all invest in.”
She adds, “This season, they embody the epitome of effortless off-duty fashion.”
Scroll on for the best trench coats to buy including the ASOS trench, news.com.au checkout editor Hannah Paine says is “one of (her) best purchases for cold weather”.
OUR TOP PICKS
BEST DESIGNER DUPES
ASOS DESIGN longline trench coat in stone, $136 at ASOS
ASOS DESIGN longline trench coat in stone. Picture: ASOS.
ASOS DESIGN longline trench coat in stone. Picture: ASOS.
Why we love it: Great quality for the price
What to consider: Hannah says it is hard to clean
Material: Lining: 100 per cent polyester, Main: 67 per cent polyester, 33 per cent cotton | Length: Mid-calf | Colour: Beige
Tried and Tested by Hannah Paine, news.com.au checkout Editor
Who knew a humble ASOS jacket could have TikTok reviewers raving about this being their “dream trench coat”?
I bought this trench last winter after seeing several TikToks about it, and now I can confidently say it’s been one of my best purchases for cold weather.
This trench is of incredible quality and stands up alongside more expensive versions from brands like Camilla & Marc – people are usually shocked when I tell them how much it cost and that it’s only from ASOS. It is also oversized so if you sit between two sizes I would recommend sizing down for the best fit.
Badgley Mischka Women’s Coats & Jackets Trench Coat, $129.95 at OZSALE
Badgley Mischka Trench Coat. Picture: OZSALE.
Badgley Mischka Trench Coat. Picture: OZSALE.
Why we love it: A timeless style that will last years
What to consider: It’s a shorter style that isn’t exactly “on trend” at the moment
Material: 100 per cent polyurethane | Length: Above the knee | Colour: Latte
What You Need To Know
If you’re after a timeless trench coat then look no further. Almost a perfect dupe of the classic Burberry trench coat but costing a fraction of the price, this trench from US brand Badgley Mischka will see you through many years to come.
Crafted in an elegant latte colourway, it will suit any occasion making it one of the best trench jackets on the market. Whatever the event – from work commutes to Sunday lunches and travelling to dinner dates – you won’t go wrong when you pop this trench on.
Featuring a traditional double-breasted design with buttoned lapels and waist tie, it is the quintessential trench coat. We also love the length on this one, hitting just at the knees.
OzSale currently has sizes ranging from XS through to XL too.
BEST CLASSIC TRENCH COATS FOR WOMEN
UNIQLO : C Trench Coat, $199.90 at Uniqlo
UNIQLO C Trench Coat. Picture: Uniqlo.
UNIQLO C Trench Coat. Picture: Uniqlo.
Why we love it: Great length for those on the shorter side
What to consider: Limited edition so get in quick
Material: Shell: 100 per cent cotton/ Lining: 100 per cent polyester | Length: Just below the knee | Colour: Beige
Tried and Tested by Marina Tatas, Shopping Writer
I’ve been searching for the perfect trench coat for years and I think I’ve finally found the one. The UNIQLO C Trench Coat rings in at just under $200 – which was just within my budget – and is an absolute wardrobe classic. It offers a relaxed (but not too oversized) fit and unlike other trenches I’ve tried, isn’t obnoxiously long, so this is perfect for my fellow short girls. The beige colour is just the right undertone to suit all sorts of outfits, and I love the checkered pattern in the inside lining. It’s not too heavy and not too light, it’s just right and I can’t wait to wear it during the autumn and winter seasons.
Cotton Rich Longline Belted Trench Coat, $175 at Marks and Spencer
Cotton Rich Belted Longline Trench Coat. Picture: Marks and Spencer.
Cotton Rich Belted Longline Trench Coat. Picture: Marks and Spencer.
Why we love it: Made with water repellant material so works as a raincoat
What to consider: It comes from the UK so standard delivery can take 6 to 10 delivery days
Material: 98 per cent cotton, 2 per cent elastane, Lining – 100 per cent polyester | Length: Knee length | Colour: Beige and black
Tried and Tested by Edwina Carr Barraclough, Senior Manager of eCommerce Content & Strategy
This Marks & Spencer belted trench coat is so popular it’s been one of the UK brand’s top-selling items for years, selling in the thousands.
It’s universally loved by shoppers, with Trash to Treasured’s Tina Abeysekara raving about it on her Instagram account. It has a timeless knee-length silhouette, a buckle belt, double button fastening, storm flap and epaulette detailing – all the makings of a classic trench coat. Plus, not only is it fashioned with sustainably sourced cotton material, but it’s also been treated with the brand’s water-repellent Stormwear technology so it can double as a raincoat.
After buying and returning so many trench coats, I finally found happiness with Mark & Spencer’s classic belted trench coat. It’s the perfect length, and width (none of this ridiculously oversized business) and has all the features – the tortoiseshell buttons, tie-waist, storm flaps and pockets – that you’d expect from a trench. While it’s not going to save you from freezing on a chilly day, I have found that it’s thick enough to wear with a knit-in Sydney’s winter comfortably. The only downside is now I want to buy all of the colourways.
Please note, that this style is selling out and restocking regularly, so be sure to check back here frequently if they currently don’t have your size.
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BEST CROPPED TRENCH COAT
Cropped Trench Coat, $79.99 at Glassons
Cropped Trench Coat. Picture: Glassons.
Cropped Trench Coat. Picture: Glassons.
Why we love it: A chic, modern take on the classic trench
What to consider: Arguably not as “timeless” as a longline style
Material: 100 per cent polyester | Length: Cropped | Colour: Sand and charcoal
What You Need To Know
The classic longline trench coat gets a crop. Feast your eyes on your new go-to transeasonal jacket, the cropped trench. Made from 100 per cent polyester, this stylish jacket will take your new-season outfits to the next level. It features a wide collar with notched lapels, long sleeves with belted cuffs, double-breasted button fastening and a back waist tie. It evokes that effortlessly cool mood we all know and love, and it pairs perfectly with denim jeans, tailored trousers and everything in between.
Plus, the cropped style is perfect for a warmer winter so we think this could be one of the best trench coats to buy for Australian fashion girlies.
BEST AFFORDABLE TRENCH COATS FOR WOMEN
Classic Longline Trench Coat, $99.99 at Glassons
Classic Longline Trench Coat. Picture: Glassons.
Classic Longline Trench Coat. Picture: Glassons.
Why we love it: Affordable price for a trench
What to consider: Quality is reflective of the price
Material: 100 per cent polyester | Length: Mid-calf | Colour: Three colours available
Tried and Tested by Harriet Amurao, Shopping Writer
The Glassons Classic Longline Trench Coat has been going off on socials and at under $100, we can see why. Dubbed the ‘perfect trench coat’, it looks oh so chic and ten times its actual price.
I saw this trench popping off on TikTok so I had to see what all the hype was about, and I was not disappointed. I got it in black as opposed to the classic tan colour and it’s super easy to wear with anything.
The fabric is slightly stiff and structured, it has deep pockets and fits perfectly – not too fitted and not too oversized to the point where it’s swallowing me up. So it’s perfect for layering over thick knits, sweatshirts and hoodies. And for only $99, you can’t go wrong.
I would recommend buying your true size or even sizing down!
BEST BLACK TRENCH COATS FOR WOMEN
Cotton Rich Longline Belted Trench Coat, $175 at Marks & Spencer
Cotton Rich Longline Belted Trench Coat. Picture: Marks and Spencer.
Cotton Rich Longline Belted Trench Coat. Picture: Marks and Spencer.
Why we love it: A perfect mix between the classic trench and a black winter coat
What to consider: No clear care instructions online
Material: 98 per cent cotton, 2 per cent elastane, Lining – 100 per cent polyester | Length: Mid-calf | Colour: Black and beige
What You Need To Know
This is the black version of the UK brand’s best-selling belted trench coat and yes, it’s created with Marks & Spencer’s signature rain-resistant Stormwear™ technology in responsibly sourced cotton. If your size isn’t stocked (this item sells out lightning fast), check back here as stock is replenished frequently.
Draped Trench Coat, $399.95 at Witchery
Draped Trench Coat. Picture: Witchery.
Draped Trench Coat. Picture: Witchery.
Why we love it: The black colourway paired with the relaxed fit makes this trench super trendy
What to consider: Epaulets on shoulders might not be for everyone
Material: 69 per cent polyester, 29 per cent viscose, 2 per cent elastane | Length: Mid-calf | Colour: Black and charcoal
What You Need To Know
If you’re after a classic, black, oversized trench coat, you’re going to love this one from Witchery. The double-breasted silhouette combined with the notched lapels and fixed waistline look so luxe and fabulous, that you’re never going to want to take this jacket off. Plus, the tie at the waist is another great feature if you’re looking for a belted trench coat.
We also love that it’s got a centre back vent to make movement a whole lot easier for you.
“I had been eyeing this trench coat off for a while and finally bit the bullet and bought it,” said one five-star rating Witchery reviewer. “Sooo glad I did. This is an investment piece I will have for years to come, beautifully made, classic and the colour goes with everything.”
BEST COLOURED TRENCH COATS FOR WOMEN
Camilla and Marc Haze Shirt Dress, $650 at Camilla and Marc
Camilla and Marc Haze Shirt Dress. Picture: Camilla and Marc.
Camilla and Marc Haze Shirt Dress. Picture: Camilla and Marc.
Why we love it: Can also be worn as a dress
What to consider: The blue hue is not as “classic” as a beige trench
Material: 70 per cent polyester, 25 per cent rayon and 5 per cent spandex | Length: Ankle length | Colour: Blue
What You Need To Know
This super luxe trench coat from Australian designer label Camilla and Marc is at the very top of our wishlists. Made in a sleek blue colourway, we love that the darker hue makes this perfect for day and night while the storm flaps at the front and back add a touch of difference to the average trench. Finally, the tie works to cinch the waist to add some definition. A truly timeless investment piece. Camilla and Marc is known for designing some of the best trench coats in recent years so if you’re looking to invest, this is a great one to buy.
Minima Esenciales Cameron Denim Trench Coat, $340 at THE ICONIC
Minima Esenciales Cameron Denim Trench Coat. Picture: THE ICONIC.
Minima Esenciales Cameron Denim Trench Coat. Picture: THE ICONIC.
Why we love it: A fun approach to the traditional trench
What to consider: Due to the denim material, it is not as lightweight as a trench
Material: Main: 100 per cent organic cotton; Lining: Pocketing: 85 per cent polyester & 15 per cent cotton | Length: Mid-calf | Colour: Denim blue
What You Need To Know
Another great colour for your autumn and winter wardrobe is this classic blue denim – perfect if you’re trying to step away from wearing black all the time. This trench coat from Minima Esenciales gives you a structured, collared neckline while still offering a super relaxed and oversized fit throughout.
Aim’n Macchiato Recycled Tech Trench Coat, $179 (down from $280) at THE ICONIC
Aim’n Macchiato Recycled Tech Trench Coat. Picture: THE ICONIC.
Aim’n Macchiato Recycled Tech Trench Coat. Picture: THE ICONIC.
Why we love it: Chic rich brown colourway
What to consider: Limited stock left so be quick
Material: 100 per cent recycled polyester | Length: Mid-calf | Colour: Brown
What You Need To Know
Made from 100 per cent recycled polyester, this is the perfect trench to throw over your matching activewear. We love this chocolate brown colour, especially for the winter season, and is sure to look great with loads of outfit options in your closet.
The recycled trench coat is also made from a water and wind-resistant fabric.
BEST SIZE-INCLUSIVE TRENCH COATS FOR WOMEN
AERE Organic Cotton Trench, $250 at THE ICONIC
AERE Organic Cotton Trench. Picture: THE ICONIC.
AERE Organic Cotton Trench. Picture: THE ICONIC.
Why we love it: On-trend oversized fit
What to consider: Size down for a regular fit
Material: 100 per cent organic cotton | Length: Just below the knee | Colour: Beige
What You Need To Know
Available in sizes 6-18, this is one size inclusivity, this is one of the best trench coats we’ve found. The AERE Organic Cotton Trench is the kind of jacket that’s going to last in your closet for years to come, thanks to the timeless design.
It’s made from 100 per cent pure organic cotton and will keep the winter chill and rain away from you.
ASOS Design Curve Longline Trench Coat in Stone, $102 (down from $136) at ASOS
ASOS Design Curve Longline Trench Coat in Stone. Picture: ASOS.
ASOS Design Curve Longline Trench Coat in Stone. Picture: ASOS.
Why we love it: Super inclusive size range
What to consider: Some reviews write that it is very long
Material: Lining: 100 per cent polyester, Main: 67 per cent polyester, 33 per cent cotton | Length: Ankle | Colour: Beige
What You Need To Know
A gorgeous soft beige-coloured trench coat perfect for layering, this option from the ASOS Design Curve range features a classic double-breasted style with notch lapels, button fastening and a longline cut. it’s the same style as the one featured above but with more plus-size options.
It’s available in sizes 16-30 and has been described by five-star rating ASOS reviewers as “amazing” and “phenomenal”. Keep in mind that a few of the reviews do recommend sizing down in this style, as it offers quite an oversized fit.
BEST LEATHER TRENCH COATS FOR WOMEN
Oversized Trench Coat, $119 at H&M
Oversized Trench Coat. Picture: H&M.
Oversized Trench Coat. Picture: H&M.
Why we love it: Perfect combo of a leather jacket and a trench
What to consider: Not actual leather
Material: 100 per cent polyester | Length: Calf length | Colour: Black and pink
What You Need To Know
If you’ve been wanting to live your matrix dream with a leather trench that isn’t insanely expensive, this one from H&M is perfect. It features a wide collar with notched lapels, long raglan-style sleeves, a double-breasted front with a waist tie and a glossy faux leather finish. It has a flattering oversized fit that makes it the perfect pairing with a plain tee, baggy jeans and chunky sneakers.
BEST DESIGNER TRENCH COATS FOR WOMEN
Burberry Kensington Long organic cotton-gabardine trench coat, $4390 at Net-a-Porter
Burberry Kensington Long organic cotton-gabardine trench coat. Picture: Net-a-Porter.
Burberry Kensington Long organic cotton-gabardine trench coat. Picture: Net-a-Porter.
Why we love it: You really can’t get more timeless than a Burberry trench
What to consider: Apart from the expense, while it is incredibly classic it is not necessarily an “on trend” style
Material: 100 per cent organic cotton; buttons: 100 per cent horn (Buffalo); body lining: 100 per cent cotton; sleeve lining: 100 per cent viscose | Length: Below the knee | Colour: Beige and black
What You Need To Know
OK, yes – we’ll be the first to admit that the price tag on this coat is rather high. But if you ever wanted to buy a designer coat, a Burberry trench has to be the most iconic one you could invest in. You’re literally buying a piece of fashion history.
This one’s eternally-in-style design is made from the brand’s signature honey beige water-repelling gabardine material, and features a beautifully structured double-breasted design, with two pockets, a belted waist, and a straight-point collar – as well as the iconic Burberry tartan lining, of course. It’s an investment piece to treasure forever and pass down for generations.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING A TRENCH COAT
When looking for the best trench coats to include in our list, we evaluated several factors:
Fabric: The Burberry trench coat above is made from 100 per cotton and even though we can’t all afford a $4000 coat, it’s clear that the fabric does make a big difference. You’ll notice that the cheaper options tend to be made from materials like polyester.
Style and silhouette: From the trendy oversized cut to the classic regular fit, there is a range of styles and silhouettes on the market right now. We tried to include a mix so you can find the best one for you.
Colour: Of course a beige trench coat is always going to be the gold standard but sometimes mixing it up with a black, charcoal, or other colourway might just be the perfect pick for you.
Price: In our dreams, we would all have the Burberry trench coat but clearly that is far from reality. So instead, we made sure to include a range of prices for everyone’s budget.
Care: Is it dry clean only? Or is it fine to chuck in the machine? This is another important factor to consider when buying the wardrobe staple.
HOW WE CHOOSE PRODUCTS
To help you find the best trench coats for your needs and budget, we asked THE ICONIC’s Head of Style, Nicole Adolphe, and stylist Brooke Falvey for their expert advice and recommendations on what to look for when buying a trench. Both ladies are renowned in the Australian fashion world for their exquisite taste and thorough understanding of the world of style. In addition, our shopping team read hundreds of customer reviews and looked at test results and ratings from product review sites to find the best trench coats from premium to budget to help you find the right one.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT QUALITIES SHOULD I LOOK FOR IN A TRENCH COAT?
That depends on your style and preference. The average woman’s trench coat falls to about mid-thigh length, halfway between your hips and knees. This is a flattering length that works well across all seasons, however, a longer trench coat is more of a statement piece well suited to the colder months, thanks to the extra coverage.
ARE THERE ANY TRICKS TO STYLING A TRENCH COAT?
According to Brooke, the best trench coats can elevate almost any outfit you wear. “Layer a trench over a dress and heels for the office or a night out, and just as easily pair it back with your favourite tracksuit, a pair of sneakers and a crossbody bag for the weekend,” Brooke explains. “Aesthetically speaking, if I’m wearing longer sleeves under my trench, I push the jacket sleeves up a little to show a hint of the colour/print that’s underneath and tie the waist belt at the back to streamline my silhouette.”
Nicole adds: “Thanks to their incredible versatility, trench coats can be worn with a dress, wide leg pants, midi skirt, slip skirt or pants suit for an everyday look, or you can throw it over your athleisure wear to elevate your ‘running errands’ look.”
In terms of how trench coats can be styled, Nicole notes: “A style we’re seeing a lot more of this year is people wearing a trench coat over a dress and knee-high boots – it gives off an effortless, cool girl feel. Another trend we’re seeing a lot this year is people tying the belt at the back of the coat and wearing the trench open to showcase the outfit underneath.”
WHEN SHOULD YOU WEAR A TRENCH COAT?
The beauty of trench coats is that they are both practical and entirely trans-seasonal. “They’re one of the quintessential wardrobe classics – not just because they look good (which they do!) but because they’re also practical,” Brooke says. “As fun as a fashion trend can be, if it’s not practical, it won’t last long.”
From summer to winter and everything in between, trench coats are incredibly versatile. While they’re no competition for a warm woolly coat due to the fact they’re generally made from cotton, canvas or gabardine, trench coats are perfect for layering over an outfit.
DOES A TRENCH COAT NEED A BELT?
Belted trench coats are the more traditional style so if you want that classic look then we’d recommend buying one with a belt. Belted trench coats are also great for adding some shape to a jacket that otherwise is fairly lifeless. However, in recent years, the unbelted trench coat has risen in popularity and ties in with the oversized trend sweeping the world. Most importantly, whether you decide to buy a belted trench coat or not, choose one that you love and not because it’s on trend or because someone tells you it is timeless.
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