Invented circa 1912, the trench coat has literally been hanging in wardrobes for over a century with no signs of losing its sartorial currency, so you can be confident that if you buy one today, you’ll be wearing it forever.
They’re the embodiment of both functionality and effortless style, so it’s no surprise the timeless trench coat 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 colour ways 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.”
Our top pick right now is the Glassons Cropped Trench Coat ($79.99).
Retailing for $79.99, this piece is an incredible dupe for the sold out Zara Cropped Trench Coat ($139) and the Burberry Cotton Garbadine Cropped Trench Coat ($3,350).
If the price alone doesn’t convince you, this jacket’s versatility should. It’s not too heavy and not too light, making it the perfect transeasonal piece to see you right through winter to spring. Plus, it can easily be dressed up or down and paired with almost any item you can think of – jeans, skirts, dresses, you name it.
HOW WE CHOOSE PRODUCTS
To help you find the best trench product 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 coat from premium to budget to help you find the right one.
Scroll on for the best trench coats to buy – from classic beige double-breasted options to modern colourful iterations.
In this article
OUR TOP PICKS
BEST CLASSIC TRENCH COATS FOR WOMEN
Badgley Mischka Women’s Coats & Jackets Trench Coat, $150.77 at OZSALE
If you’re after a timeless trench coat then look no further. Almost a perfect dupe of the classic Burberry style 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, this trench will suit any occasion. 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.
Lover Halsey Trench Coat in Beige, $380 at THE ICONIC
What You Need To Know
Elevate your wardrobe with this timeless trench silhouette from Australian brand Lover, available in a gorgeous neutral colourway. It’s crafted from 100 per cent organic cotton, offering an oversized fit, lapel neckline, adjustable tie detail, side pockets and a waist sash.
It’s one of Nicole’s top trench picks from The Iconic this season as well.
Double Breasted Trench Coat, $149 at Marks & Spencer
Tried and Tested by Edwina Carr Barraclough, Senior Manager of eCommerce Content & Strategy
This Marks & Spencer trench is so popular it’s been 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 epaulet detailing – all the makings of a classic trench coat.
Plus, not only is it fashioned with sustainably sourced cotton material, it’s been treated with the brand’s water-repellent Stormwear technology so it can double as a rain coat.
After buying and returning so many trench coats, Edwina Carr Barraclough finally found happiness with Mark & Spencer’s classic trench.
“It’s the perfect length, 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.”
Edwina continues: “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, this style is selling out and restocking regularly, so be sure to check back here frequently if they currently don’t have your size.
BEST CROPPED TRENCH COAT
Cropped Trench Coat, $79.99 at Glassons
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, tailroed trousers and everything in between.
BEST AFFORDABLE TRENCH COATS FOR WOMEN
Classic Longline Trench Coat, $99.99 at Glassons
Tried and Tested by Harriet Amurao, eCommerce Content Coordinator
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.
Harriet Amurao says, “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.”
She adds: “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!”
It’s also available in a beautiful green colourway.
ASOS DESIGN longline trench coat in stone, $136 at ASOS
Tried and Tested by Hannah Paine, news.com.au checkout’s Editor
Who knew a humble ASOS jacket could have TikTok reviewers raving about this being their “dream trench coat”?
Hannah Paine bought this trench last winter after seeing several TikToks about it, and now she can confidently say it’s been “one of my best purchases for cold weather”.
“This trench is 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,” she said.
“It is also oversized so if you sit between two sizes I would recommend sizing down for the best fit.”
BEST BLACK TRENCH COATS FOR WOMEN
Double Breasted Trench Coat with Recycled Polyester, $149 at Marks & Spencer
What You Need To Know
This is the black version of the UK brand’s best-selling trench coat and yes, it’s created with Marks & Spencer’s signature rain-resistant Stormwear™ technology in a responsibly sourced cotton. If your size isn’t stocked (this item sells out lightning fast), check back here as stock is replenished frequently.
Classic Trench Coat, $399.95 at Witchery
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, you’re never going to want to take this jacket off.
We also love that it’s got a centre back vent to make movement a whole lot easier for you.
“Classic and timeless, this is the one” said one five-star rating Witchery reviewer.
“I tried many trench coats and this one was the best fit and the perfect fabric.
“Fully lined and it was structured but had a softness to it. Went down a size and still roomy. Can’t wait to wear it.”
BEST COLOURED TRENCH COATS FOR WOMEN
Camilla and Marc Kiana Trench Coat, $650 at Stylerunner
What You Need To Know
Loved by Jules Sebastian, this super luxe trench coat from Australian designer label Camilla and Marc is at the very top of our wishlists. Made in a sleek charcoal colourway and crafted from 100 per cent recycled materials, according to the Camilla and Marc website, it is not only environmentally conscious but also effortlessly stylish. 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.
Cotton On Drop Shoulder Trench Coat, $69 (down from $99.99) at THE ICONIC
Tried and Tested by Melody Teh, news.com.au checkout’s Deputy Editor
News.com.au checkout’s Deputy Editor Melody Teh has been hunting down an oversized classic trench and the reasonable price point of this one is why she immediately nabbed it – and has found herself wearing it ever since.
“This classic style trench is so easy to throw on as you’re running out the door and best of all, it goes with absolutely everything,” says Melody.
“Whether it’s with jeans, skirts or dresses, a trench instantly classes up your outfit and it’s so on-trend this season. I know I’ll be getting so much wear out of it!”
It’s available in this cool grey shade, which is a nice change for your winter closet, or you can opt for the classic taupe shade.
Calli Oversized Trench, $159.95 at THE ICONIC
What You Need To Know
Another great colour for your autumn and winter wardrobe is this olive green shade – perfect if you’re trying to step away from wearing black all the time. This trench coat from Calli gives you a structured, collared neckline while still offering a super relaxed and oversized fit throughout.
Aim’n Macchiato Recycled Tech Trench Coat, $280 at THE ICONIC
What You Need To Know
Made from 100 per cent recycled polyester, this is the perfect trench to throw over your matching activewear. We are loving 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
What You Need To Know
Available from sizes 6-18, this is one of our top picks when it comes to size inclusive trench coats. 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. Oh and it also comes in black.
ASOS Design Curve Longline Trench Coat in Stone, $102 (down from $136) at ASOS
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 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 recommended 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
What You Need To Know
If you’ve been wanting to live your matrix dream with a leather trench that isn’t insansely expensive, this one from H&M is perfect. It features a wide collar with notched lapels, long raglan-style sleeves, 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.
Phoenix Trench Coat, $320 at Kookai
What You Need To Know
Kookai have dropped the Phoneix Trench Coat as part of their Winter leather collection, and it is absolutely divine.
It’s crafted in this gorgeous glossy black faux leather and the full-length design is meant to elevate your winter wardrobe. We love the double breasted designed coupled with the large lapels and strapped cuffs.
BEST DESIGNER TRENCH COATS FOR WOMEN
Burberry The Short Islington Trench Coat, $4150 at Farfetch
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.
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 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 QUALITIES SHOULD I LOOK FOR IN A TRENCH COAT?
That depends on your personal style and preference. The average women’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, 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 the trench coat will be styled this season, 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.
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Originally published as Best trench coats for women in 2023
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