Fashion Insiders Know That Now Is the Best Time to Invest in a Timeless Trench Coat
It's the ultimate lightweight layer for this tricky between-seasons period
Clementina Jackson
As I write this, it’ll come as no surprise to hear there’s a flurry of rain outside my window. The British weather may be unpredictable year-round, but this particular period—late winter, on the cusp of spring (in theory at least!)—tends to deliver its own unique mix of downpours, sharp breezes and the occasional burst of sunshine. With that in mind, there’s one item your capsule wardrobe needs to navigate this tricky in-between season: a timeless trench coat.
A staple of the super-stylish for decades, a classic trench coat is the ultimate transitional investment piece—perfect for layering now and wearing well into spring 2026 and beyond. Originally created for the military during World War One as a lightweight, waterproof alternative to heavy army coats, it has never strayed too far from its practical roots.
For that reason, it’s the perfect cover-up for this time of year, when you’re never quite sure what you might be facing as you step out of the front door. You’ll still find flap pockets, epaulettes, storm flaps and double-breasted details on most designs today, in a nod to heritage styles, while the breathable gabardine fabric means you won’t be left sweltering if the sun decides to make an appearance (depressingly rare though that currently is).
Yet while its origins are steeped in tradition, designers continue to refresh the trench coat every season. For Autumn/Winter 2025, we saw plenty of fresh iterations on the catwalks. Leather trench coats proved particularly popular, with Burberry (naturally, the OG purveyor of trenches), Vivienne Westwood and Balmain all showcasing styles in this durable, high-impact fabric. Suede trenches are also proving to be a major trend at the moment—that's showing no signs of slowing—thanks to insider-favourite brands like Nour Hammour and Rise&Fall.
Burberry, Vivienne Westwood, Balmain - AW25
More traditional cotton-gabardine and canvas versions were also seen at Balenciaga, Calvin Klein and Dior—proving the trench coat is one item that never goes out of style even in its more classic form. (Notably, Calvin Klein also presented a drop-waisted, buttonless trench as part of its Spring/Summer 2026 catwalk collection, that was elegance personified, which is no surprise when you consider how it's become the ultimate perennial.)
Now, those runway inspirations have begun to filter into stores and online, alongside an impressive selection of high-street trench coats—meaning there’s no shortage of options when it comes to finding the best trench coat for your wardrobe in 2026.
During the recent SS26 Fashion Week season, the go-to trench styling trick was to knot the belt either loosely or tightly around the waist to make it the full 'fit—so that whatever lay beneath was rendered inconsequential (ideal for those mornings where dressing feels particularly difficult).
Just look to Alexa Chung for the perfect example: the model wore a smart white Burberry trench to the iconic British brand's SS26 show, paired with sheer tights, checked heeled pumps and a top-handle bag, creating a chic, ladylike look with bite.
For daytime, the key is to lean into the trench coat's more classic side (even when it comes to leather and printed iterations), pairing it with contrasting blue denim, smart tailoring and simple wardrobe staples.
Whichever aesthetic route you choose to take, one thing is certain: a well-cut trench coat is one of the hardest-working pieces you’ll ever own. I’ve scoured the shops to bring you the best trench coats to buy now—from affordable high-street finds to designer investment pieces. Trust me: your transitional wardrobe will thank you.
Shop The Best Trench Coats
If you like a heavier-gauge trench coat, Me+Em's wool-blend style fits the bill. It will fall elegantly but, crucially, not crease once you slip it on.
This is hands-down the coolest trench of the season, featuring a dramatic (and bang-on-trend) funnel neck and a clever adjustable hem.
Khaki green gives this technical trench a hint of edge, and a stylish point of difference. The best part, though? It's designed with a layered construction so it can perform multiple functions if your day-to-day wardrobe.
The classic silhouette, along with an elegant lower-calf hemline, makes this particular trench coat a winner for everyday dressing.
Black offers a versatile and ultra-wearable alternative to light brown and beige tones. It won't get (visibly) dirty quite so quickly, either.
Prefer your wardrobe classics with a bit of a fashion-forward twist? This Arket scarf-detail trench ticks all the boxes—and despite being more trend-led, will never not be the height of cool.
Toteme's trench is the perfect mix of classic and modern thanks to the striking red colourway and effortlessly cool oversized fit.
This cropped trench coat offers a playful twist on the classic silhouette, and looks particularly stylish with the collar turned up into a funnel-neck style.
For a more pared-back, minimalist look, Burberry's classic Camden trench is a guaranteed winner—and one that you'll wear endlessly for years to come.
The suede trend is still having a moment, so why not try a soft-touch trench coat to tap into it?
Looking for an alternative approach to the classic trench coat? This fresh bubble-sleeve trench looks seriously chic—and it's an influencer favourite.
Maje's trench comes with a little rock'n'roll energy courtesy of stud details, plus a handy removable collar.
If you're in a position to make a hefty investment purchase, you can't do much better than The Row. The cult brand's just-dropped take on the classic trench features a shorter cut, storm flaps, buttoned epaulettes and a waist-cinching belt—and it's destined to be a sell out.
