9 STYLISH TRENCH COAT OUTFITS FOR EVERY SEASON

Whether donned by a dashing noir detective or a mysterious femme fatale, the trench coat transitioned beautifully from military garb to mainstream accessory by captivating audiences in early black-and-white movies. Now, luxury designers are updating this silver-screen favorite for the modern age.

It’s no surprise trench coats have become a contemporary hit. This ageless style serves as a perennial fashion fixture, with each generation finding new ways to wear it. Designer brands know how to strike a balance between functional and fresh, offering reimagined shapes with unrivaled durability.

Modern trench coats come in numerous cuts and fabrics—classic beige with puff sleeves, sleek patent leather, belted, pastel, and more. There’s no shortage of ways to style this piece, and the diverse patterns and colors ensure a variation that fits any wardrobe, whether it’s minimalist, edgy, or eclectic.

Discover trench coat types, designers who excel in these styles, and how to create fashionable trench coat outfits.

Types of trench coats

Trench coats tend to follow a similar silhouette—collared, buttoned, and long. But as with most wardrobe staples, there are variations in this design, ensuring a fit for every wearer and occasion.

Here are some of our favorite trench coat styles, what makes them stand apart, and the best designers who make them best:

Single-breasted

Typically, single-breasted trench coats are streamlined and more casual than the formal double-breasted style. Single-breasted designs have been perfected by numerous luxury labels—just look at the exquisitely cosmopolitan designs of The Row and the imaginative forms of Tu Lize.

Double-breasted

This design appears more vintage than the single-breasted counterpart, with overlapping front fabric and two columns of buttons. Burberry creates some of the best trench coats for women, and its double-breasted styles are iconic. Step out in vintage checkered print, sophisticated beige cashmere, or polished black.

Leather trench coat

Leather is chic and durable and appears downright daring once crafted into this classic silhouette. The edgy material pairs effortlessly with other contemporary pieces, such as leather pants, skinny jeans, and metallic footwear. For a leather designer trench coat that pushes the boundaries, explore the range of rebellious shapes at Alexander McQueen.

Rain trench coat

Although regular cotton trench coats can wick away rain to a certain extent, water-resistant styles are impervious to downpours. Rain trench coats are made from waterproof materials and typically include a hood. Kassl offers rubber trench coats in several colors that help keep you dry while remaining stylish.

Wool trench coat

Wool is an insulating winter fabric that adds texture and coziness to any outfit. The material takes on the same form and fluidity as cotton while providing additional warmth. Pair this style with other warm fabrics and accessories, such as corduroy, knit scarves, and hats.

HOW TO STYLE A TRENCH COAT

The styling possibilities are infinite when it comes to trench coats. They can be styled in a manner that’s feminine or masculine, soft or edgy, serious or playful. It all comes down to the material, cut, and outfit it accompanies.

We’ve created nine outfit combinations that will work in any wardrobe for seasons to come:

Trench coat + turtleneck + button-up shirt

This layered look creates dimension using minimalist pieces, allowing each garment to bring a subtle touch to the overall look. Simply layer a classic beige or colored trench over a monochrome white outfit. Add ankle boots and a structured handbag to complete the look.

Trench coat + mock neck sweater + maxi skirt

A mock neck sweater and a maxi skirt are great for spring and fall. Choose a sweater in a natural fabric, such as cashmere, alpaca, or wool, and introduce a playful floral-printed skirt. These two pieces layer nicely with a classic trench coat—roll up the sleeves, carry a pouch under one arm, and add sunglasses.

Checkered trench coat + pleated or tulle skirt + rain boots

Plaid and checkered trench coats are timeless patterns that liven up any gray day. For a fun rainy-day outfit, pair a checkered trench coat with a black pleated or tulle skirt and designer rubber rain boots.

Leather trench coat + T-shirt + suede pants

This look works with natural and faux leather alike. Start with the trench coat, either smooth or croc-embossed. Then select a pair of earth-tone suede pants and a simple white tee. Finish the look with a dainty wicker handbag and wooden jewelry.

Trench coat + patterned pants

A classic beige trench coat looks terrific with jeans or simple slacks, but adding a patterned bottom instead can inject the look with visual excitement. An earth-tone beige pairs well with soft florals in deep greens and yellows. Keep the trench closed to allow the pants to shine. Complete the look with a pair of simple heels, a clutch, and an understated necklace.

Printed trench coat + high socks + loafers

Printed trench coats add color and personality to the classic design and require little styling to stand out from the crowd. Wear the coat closed to do the print justice, and add a pair of high socks and loafers. Underneath, wear a simple tee and shorts, and finish with a tote or bold-colored crossbody bag. 

Beige trench coat + jeans + bright scarf

The neutral versatility of beige makes it perfect to pair with vibrant colors. Wear a simple pair of blue jeans, a knit sweater, and an oversized scarf in a colorful print for a casual look. Tuck brown boots underneath the jeans in cold weather and add colorful matching mittens and a brown leather crossbody bag.

White trench coat + turtleneck + black leggings

White trench coats are equal parts striking and mysterious. Pair this style with an entirely black outfit—slim-fitting turtleneck, leggings, pumps, and sunglasses—for an ultra-chic look. Or, throw in a pop of color with vibrant heels.

Trench coat + bucket hat

Trench coats and bucket hats make a great match. These two pieces can work together in various ways, with blue jeans and tees, button-ups and trousers, dresses, hoodies, and more.

AN ODE TO OUTERWEAR

The right coat or jacket pulls a look together and, more practically, keeps you warm. Neiman Marcus has a vast selection of outerwear to choose from, whether you’re facing winter with a luxurious down-fill puffer coat, battling a downpour with a chic rain jacket, or getting boardroom-ready in a blazer.

Explore our editorial archives for more inspiration and outfit combinations. When you’re ready, booka one-on-one in-store or virtual appointment with a Neiman Marcus style advisor for personalized styling tips.