We don’t have to tell you a trench coat is a wardrobe classic—it’s been around for more than a hundred years so it’s safe to say it’s an essential. While their purpose is to shield you from rain and wind, the best trench coats also stylishly pull together your look and add a bit of polish to your outfits. After an in-depth review, Everlane’s Modern Trench is our top pick for the best trench coat while Mango’s Classic Trench Coat is the best affordable option. Ahead, we rounded up additional recommendations, depending on your style and budget.
The best trench coats for women are stylish, functional and built to last, no matter the weather or … [+] how you wear it.
ILLUSTRATION: FORBES / PHOTO: RETAILERS
To determine our recommendations, we consulted our resident fashion expert, Kari Molvar, who is Forbes Vetted’s deputy fashion editor, as well as two fashion stylists. Ahead, eight of the best trench coats for women (and if you’re looking for more technical outerwear, we also reviewed the best rain jackets for women).
Sizes: XXS to XL | Colors: 3 in total | Fabric weight: Medium | Lining: 100% recycled polyester
What’s notable:
Features both a front and back storm flap (meant to help the rain run off more effectively), plus a tie-belt means you can customize the silhouette.
What could be better:
It’s slightly longer than it appears in the photos; keep in mind if you’re petite.
Everlane, known for its high-quality, understated basics, has one of the smartest trench coats out there. The timeless, double-breasted silhouette is both functional and stylish, with enough polish to go the distance, year after year. It has all the details you want—storm flaps, tie-belt, great color range—and nothing you don’t, like a fabric that could pill or wear out quickly.
What the reviews say: Lots of comments about the authentic details, perfect fit and feel, with one customer saying: “Super cute, warm and comfy.” However, some commented on the coat wrinkling easily, and the fit being slightly larger than anticipated.
Sizes: XXS to 4XL | Colors: 3 in total | Fabric weight: Medium | Lining: 100% polyester
What’s notable:
The design details: Think side pockets, tortoiseshell-effect buttons and loops on the cuffs.
What could be better:
While it’s lined, the 100% polyester material means it’s not the warmest trench on the block.
If you’re on a budget, this stylish bestseller from Mango delivers what you need in a classic trench. The water-repellent technical fabric is practical, and the belted, double-breasted design is stylish and polished.
What our fashion writer says: “This trench offers amazing bang for the buck. It looks way more expensive than it is, and the streamlined silhouette works on anyone. You might need to layer up on cold days, though, since the warmth level is on the light side.”
Sizes: XXS to XXL | Colors: 3 in total | Fabric weight: Medium | Lining: 100% polyester
What’s notable:
The fabric is wind and water-resistant.
The large lapel and storm flaps deliver a classic silhouette.
It comes in fresh, modern colors like smokey grey.
What could be better:
Even with the redesign, this trench is on the larger side. We suggest sizing down.
Abercrombie & Fitch’s stylish trench coat is the ideal addition to your weekend wardrobe. Casual lines and a newly-reimagined fit elevate your off-duty look. Pair it with denim and a sweater, or leggings and sneakers for a relaxed vibe.
What the reviews say: People commented on the value for money, timeless style and the fact that it “goes with anything in your closet.” But sizing can be an issue: “It’s a little too oversized, and also runs long.”
Sizes: 00 to 24 | Colors: 3 in total | Fabric weight: Medium | Lining: Lined
What’s notable:
This trench has recently been updated and features a pop-able collar, adjustable belted waist and super-functional water-repellent fabric.
What could be better:
The fit runs small in some cases, so it might not work as well in colder months when you need to layer up.
J.Crew’s bestselling trench coat has recently been updated this year. A removable hood and a more relaxed fit make this the ultimate closet staple. Plus, this trench is designed to hit above the knee, which makes it ideal for petite body types.
What the reviews say: “I always get compliments when I wear it,” says one customer. Others love the practicality of the hood, as well as the top-notch quality. Some, however, say this trench coat runs small, and it’s tough to layer chunkier knits underneath.
Sizes: XXS – XXL | Colors: 1 in total | Fabric weight: Heavy | Lining: Lined
What’s notable:
The zesty, orange lining delivers a pop of color.
The internal drawcord waist makes it easy to customize the fit.
Fleece-lined pockets add a luxe touch.
What could be better:
The lighter color can mark more easily than a traditional trench coat shade.
The vibrant lining isn’t for everyone.
London-based brand, Sweaty Betty, has designed a trench coat that delivers both form and function. Water-resistant fabric, fixed hood and oversized storm flap work hard to ensure you stay dry. It’s technical and stylish at the same time.
What the reviews say: Customers rave about the versatility of this trench: it looks equally good over work clothes or gym gear. “It’s simply the best rain coat on the market.” However, one customer felt the fit was disappointing: “The arms were too short” and the design was unflattering.
Veronica Beard
Veronica Beard Conneley Dickey Trench Coat
Sizes: XS to XL | Colors: 1 in total | Fabric weight: Heavy | Lining: 100% polyester
What’s notable:
Its length: this is easily the longest trench coat in our line-up.
The rugged waxed-cotton is durable.
The double-breasted design—along with traditional epaulettes and storm flap—delivers timeless appeal.
What could be better:
The trench coat’s wider skirt isn’t for everyone.
Veronica Beard’s chic, moss-colored Conneley trench coat adds polish to any look. Designed to hit below the knee, it’s the ultimate longline trench and is ideal for keeping warm in colder months.
What the reviews say: Customers commented on the quality: “It feels sturdy, as though it’s made with a performance material to withstand crazy weather.” They also love the unusual moss-green color. There’s an occasional comment about the fit, particularly the “skirt of the trench is too wide.”
Sizes: XS to XXL | Colors: 2 in total | Fabric weight: Light | Lining: Lined
What’s notable:
The lighter, cotton-blend fabric makes it perfect for transitional seasons fall and spring.
The double-breasted, belted design creates a timeless silhouette that says “instant heirloom” and will work for years to come.
What could be better:
The fit of the shoulders might be too snug for some. Size up if you plan to layer.
The queen of quiet luxury, Jenni Kayne, has delivered a high-quality, timeless trench coat that elevates any look. Yes, the price tag is on the steep side but, given the sophisticated wearability of this trench coat, we think it’s worth it.
What the reviews say: Lots of love for the “forever coat,”particularly the quality and fit. “An instant classic” and “simply stunning.” That said, some have commented that it’s “tight in the shoulders and arms” and is hard to layer over chunky knits.
Sizes: 2 to 16 | Colors: 3 in total | Fabric weight: Medium | Lining: 50% acetate, 50% viscose
What’s notable:
The large lapel, raglan sleeves and buttoned tabs at the shoulders and cuffs are just some of the design details that elevate this trench a cut above.
What could be better:
No storm flap means this trench won’t be as effective in keeping you dry.
The Scott trench coat—in shades of khaki, navy and camel—is an instant cult-classic. When the French label, Sezane, released this trench, it garnered a 10,000 person waiting list. The cut is halfway between tailored and slouchy, and is guaranteed to deliver the je ne sais quoi your closet needs.
What our fashion writer says: “Trust the French to create the trench coat of my dreams. I love the slouchier, relaxed fit. For added style points, I’d tie the belt in a bow at the back.”
Sizes: XXS to XXL | Colors: 1 in total | Fabric weight: Light | Lining: Unlined
What’s notable:
The cotton-nylon blend trench is water-resistant.
Its fuller hem creates a more pronounced silhouette.
Classic touches like the tie-waist and storm flap make this trench a closet staple.
What could be better:
The fuller silhouette might not appeal to all.
It only comes in one color.
Madewell’s signature trench coat is the lightest in our line-up. Slightly oversized, it works well as a loose over-layer or cinched with a belt. Plus, it’s roomy enough that you can add warm layers underneath.
What the reviews say: Most customers like the lighter feel, saying “this ticks all the boxes” for a fall-spring coat. Others love the quality: “Madewell went the extra mile to finish the seams inside the coat so it doesn’t look sloppy when you wear it open.” However, the lack of color options is a disappointment to some.
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
At Forbes Vetted, our team of writers and editors have collectively logged thousands of hours testing and reviewing consumer products. We’ve covered wide ranging fashion topics such as the best high-waisted jeans, blazers for women and warmest winter coats. Forbes contributor, Corrie Jackson, the writer for this story, is the former deputy editor of Glamour in the U.K., and has covered fashion and beauty for two decades. Her trusty trench is almost 20 years old, and still going strong. Forbes deputy fashion editor Kari Molvar has covered fashion for some of the biggest publications in the world, and oversaw the editing and selections for this piece.
How We Chose The Best Trench Coats For Women
First, we looked at trench coats from iconic brands we know and love. Then we broke away from the mold and considered styles that cater for different budgets and needs. Not all trench coats are the same: the fit, fabric and price can differ wildly. Our goal was to select options for a range of budgets, but with an eye on quality and a timeless style that will ensure the trench coat endures. With that in mind, we explored the weight of the fabric, the lining, the fit, as well as details such as storm flaps, epaulettes, belted waists and cuffs and hoods. We also read firsthand consumer reviews to gather data on which trench coats are both fashionable and functional.
What To Consider When Buying Trench Coats
Believe it or not, the iconic trench coat has been around for almost two centuries. Early versions were sported by soldiers during the 19th century. Then Thomas Burberry designed a coat for WWI officers to wear in the trenches, and the rest is history. The coat’s evolution from battlefield garb to unisex closet staple is largely thanks to Hollywood (think Casablanca’s Humphrey Bogart and Breakfast at Tiffany’s Audrey Hepburn). And, boy, has it endured. Not only is a trench high-functioning (both water-resistant and perfect for layering), it scores high on style points, too. Throw it on over leggings and a sweater and voila: instant polish. Slip it on over a LBD (little black dress) and you’re channeling Holly Golightly. But how to know which trench coat is for you? We’ve scoured the market, and tapped fashion experts for tips, so no matter your style or budget, your next trench coat is here.
How Will You Wear It?
The right trench coat can last a lifetime but, before you take the plunge, do your research. The three most important facts are fabric, fit and price. Are you planning to wear it in the shoulder seasons (spring and fall)? If so, lightweight fabrics like polyester or a blend of cotton and polyurethane fabrics will suffice. Winter trenches should be warmer so go for something lined.
According to New York-based style consultant, Sarah Meikle, the right trench is super-versatile. “It should look equally good styled with wide-leg pants and sneakers, as a shirt dress and block heels.” And, while a classic neutral will ensure longevity, don’t be afraid to make a statement. When Haley Bieber was papped in a Kelly-green, vegan-leather trench by Staud in 2020, it showcased a plot twist in the trench coat’s story, proving there is a world beyond khaki, navy and black.
Know Your Fabrics
Three words: consider the season. A classic trench is made from gabardine, a densely-woven cotton twill invented by Thomas Burberry. While the more expensive trenches are made from wool or a cotton-wool blend, even more affordable fabrics should tick the water-resistant box. “I advise staying away from heavy, thick fabric,” says Meikle. “Lean towards an all-season fabric; that way, you’ll get more wear out of it.” And don’t overlook the lining. Try to avoid synthetic linings like nylon and polyester because they don’t breathe as well. Unlined trench coats feel lighter—and cost less—but won’t keep you as warm. Best of both worlds: Buy a trench with a detachable liner and swap it out depending on the climate.
Get The Right Fit
Are you planning to layer underneath? If so, make sure your trench is large enough to accommodate what lies beneath. Keep it roomy enough to fit a chunky knit or blazer underneath, says Meikle. Pay attention to the sleeve length, shoulder fit and the overall silhouette. Whether you go for a classic A-line or double-breasted fit, don’t fall prey to the excess-of-material mistake. “Make sure you’re wearing the coat, and the coat’s not wearing you,” says Lindsay Brooke Weiss, fashion stylist and influencer. “It shouldn’t look too big when you belt it, otherwise you’ll create an unflattering silhouette.” Meikle agrees: “The biggest mistake people make is sizing up too much. You don’t want the trench coat to hit too long, or look too big. Think streamlined and polished.” When you’re trying it on, play around with cinching the waist, popping the collar and rolling up the sleeves. The best trench is worn confidently.
Evaluate The Price
When it comes to price point, there are several things to consider. The biggest factors are fabric and finish. Cashmere and wool are more expensive than polyester. “I’d be wary of a very inexpensive trench coat,” says Weiss. “Sometimes the material is subpar and feels too stiff.” She recommends holding out for as much quality as you can, even if you’re on a budget: “J.Crew’s Icon trench has really stood the test of time. I’ve had mine for 15 years and it’s still going strong!” That said, Meikle doesn’t believe you need to go for broke. “A trench is such an essential staple. It’s possible to find great versions that don’t break the bank. Just pay attention to the fit and shape. The fabric might not last years but it will be worth it while it lasts.” And if you can stretch to an investment piece? “I’m a huge fan of Toteme and Acne,” says Weiss. “My cropped Acne trench never fails to make me feel chic and effortless. I layer it over a tee and chambray button-down. But I also love that I can belt it and—who cares what’s underneath?—because you’re in a great coat!” A water-resistant coat that’s an outfit in itself: That’s the mighty power of a great trench.