The iconic trench coat: A spring fashion essential

No spring wardrobe is complete without a trench coat, and with the arrival of some warmer weather (yay!), it’s finally time to start shedding some of those layers and lightening up our outerwear. Trench coats have long been seen as a fashion 'must have' - ever since Audrey Hepburn wore one in her famous role as Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffany's. They date back to the First World War, when Thomas Burberry invented gaberdine fabric and created the coat for officers in the British army, to keep them warm and dry in the trenches. Over the years it has been reinvented so many times, but still retains many of its original military features.  Modern versions come in vibrant colours and patterns, but it's the classic beige that will always stand the test of time.

Some reasons why I love them so much:

• The trench coat is a classic and will never date, making it the most practical fashion investment you could make
• It's super flattering for almost all body shapes when chosen with care and worn well
• It makes any outfit look more sophisticated and pulled together, regardless of what you're wearing underneath!
• It’s so versatile and goes well with everything - jeans, workwear, dresses, the list is endless. My favourite way to wear it is open, for a more relaxed look, with skinny jeans, Breton top and brogues or sneakers
• It’s ideal for Spring, Autumn and the rain, but can be worn on a sunny day too
• There is a trench coat for all price ranges

Here are some great options for you to check out, starting with:

Burberry Long Leather Detail Gaberdine Trench Coat £1,295

Be still my beating heart! If you have this much money to spend on a trench, then this is the one, no question. Mr DF - if you are ever looking for inspiration for any big birthdays coming up, then you don't need to read any further. Where do I start?  I love the slim fit and the elegant leather detail at the collar and belted cuffs - perfection! Burberry trenches are made of cotton gabardine, and have a refined, lightweight feel. They are so well made and can be worn year in, year out, from season to season.

There are are, of course, some amazing high street versions. First up, 

L.K. Bennett Janis Single Breasted Trench Coat £325

The quality of this trench is also outstanding. It is classic but modern with its single-breasted style and includes some fabulous details including belted sleeves, button shoulder, belt and hidden buttons. A good one to invest in if you have to be smart for work. I would also wear this one over a little flowery dress.

Mint Velvet Stone Trench Coat

I've had my eye on this since Christmas and love everything about it. It looks so sleek and I particularly like the asymmetric zip fastening and really large pockets. This would be my number one choice, if it was in the classic beige. I do like the stone colour, but in a trench it's just a little bit paler than I would like.

Banana Republic New Classic Trench £129

Banana Republic has always received rave reviews for its trench coats, so I would always have a look at their latest style. This one ticks all the boxes for the excellent quality light weight fabric and it has all the detailing you'd expect for this price - epaulettes, front and back flaps, belt buckle etc. I absolutely love how they've styled it with leopard print, great combo!

Zara Double Breasted Trench Coat £99

This would be my top pick if you want to go for a double-breasted coat, with the extra row of buttons. They can create the impression of width though, so best avoided if you have a curvy figure.

Boden Spring Trench now £103.20 from £129

I know I've banged on about preferring the classic beige colour but I had to include this as I just love the bright daffodil yellow! If you're bold enough, a bright colour can give a much edgier look to the trench.

M&S Collection Pure Cotton Belted Trench Coat with Stormwear

This is a great basic trench coat, and looks more expensive than its price tag. I'm not so keen on the buttons on it, but it has had excellent reviews.

Gap Classic Trench £64.95

Another one that looks more expensive, due to its classic shape and heavy cotton fabric. The details are actually quite Burberry like. The only thing with this coat is that it does come up quite big.

H&M Trenchcoat £29.99

A very stylish option in classic navy, and such a great price. Also comes in my beloved beige.


So, what is your favourite style of trench coat? I had my last one, a classic design from Boden, for over ten years, but I took it to a clothes swapping party a few months ago. I've been hunting for my replacement for a while, and have finally ordered one of the above! Any guesses which one? I will report back....

Finishing with my outfit from yesterday:

White knit top - American Vintage at Yard
Sleeveless pale grey chunky knit - Hush SS12
Snake print grey jeans - Zara AW13 sale
Black and Pearl Ballet Pumps - Boden SS14

Back soon with another classic spring investment..

Abbi x