As I write this, it'll most likely come as no surprise to hear that there is a flurry of rain outside my window. While British weather is confusing at the best of times, with autumn underway, it's becoming even more so. With that in mind, there's one item your wardrobe desperately needs to alleviate the unpredictable weather: a trench coat.
A staple of the super-stylish for decades, a transitional trench coat is the perfect investment piece for this season and beyond. First created for the military in World War One, as a lighter, waterproof alternative to heavy army coats, it has never strayed too far from its roots.
For that reason, it's the perfect cover-up for the current season, where you’re never quite sure what you might be facing when 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 lightweight gabardine fabric means you won't be left sweltering if the sun decides to make an appearance.
Yet, while its roots may be far-reaching, the cover-up still gets an update by designers every season. For Autumn/Winter 2025, we saw plenty of fresh iterations on the catwalks.
Leather was trending, with Burberry (naturally, the OG purveyor of trenches), Vivienne Westwood and Balmain all showing styles in this durable fabric.
Burberry, Vivienne Westwood, Balmain - AW25
More traditional canvas versions were also seen at Balenciaga, Calvin Klein and Dior, proving that this is one item that never goes out of style even in its more classic form. (Calvin Klein also showed a trench coat on its most recent catwalk for SS26, a drop-waisted version without buttons that was elegance personified, which is no surprise when you consider how it's become the ultimate perennial.)
Of course, many of these trench coats have now started to trickle into stores and online (as well as some great options from the high street, too), and so, there's also plenty of inspiration on hand for how to style the silhouette.
At the recent Fashion Weeks, 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 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, I've scoured the shops to find all of the best trench coats to shop right now, from high street to designer. Trust me: your autumnal 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.
The classic silhouette, along with an elegant lower-calf hemline, makes this particular trench coat a winner for everyday dressing.
Zara's trench coat is water-repellent as well as pleasingly elevated in cut and colour.
This cropped trench coat offers a playful twist on the classic silhouette.
Mango's trench coat offers something a little bit different with the addition of contrast lapels in corduroy.
This classic style will work hard in your wardrobe for years.
Sportmax's coated trench coat comes straight off the runway and is ready to add to your capsule wardrobe.
For those who like a coat with a little added drama.
Damson Madder's mocha-toned trench coat is so good it's been brought back for the new season.
Black makes a wearable alternative to light brown and beige tones.
Looking for an alternative approach to the classic trench coat? This fresh bubble-sleeve trench looks seriously chic.
The suede trend is still having a moment, so why not try a soft-touch trench coat to tap into it?
Style this cropped trench coat with high-waisted jeans or trousers.
Arket's funnel-neck cropped trench jacket features an onversize cut that pairs flawlessly with flared or boot-cut jeans.
Toteme's cotton trench has been "garment-washed" to give it a lived-in feel and look, as well as the best oversized fit in the business.
