If I were to suggest one piece of clothing that every woman needs in her wardrobe, it would be a classic trench coat.

Ok, I’ll be honest, it would be hard to stop at one. But hear me out - I’ll try. Let’s start with a classic trench coat; and you’ll have to forgive me when I later launch into many more “essential pieces” in future stories…

By Livia Sharp

Why the trench? 

Simple really - they have existed in every trans-seasonal collection for decades because they are not just eternally chic, but also extremely adaptable. They can take you from office to dinner, chilly morning to sunny afternoon, rain, hail, shine etc etc. You can style them for work over skirts, trousers or a suit; they take your most basic jeans, t-shirt and sneaker combo and elevate it to Parisian-chic status instantly (don’t forget that red lip!), and in this post-COVID-loungewear-as-daywear-world they also look downright fantastic thrown over a matching loungewear set to really elevate your next woolies trip. So, no matter your budget, I’ve flagged my top 3 options for this must have wardrobe staple. 

Entry level: Cropped - Kmart Crop Trench Coat

If you’re not ready to go full Inspector Gadget, why not start out with a cropped style. These shorter trenches have been around for a few seasons proving both their longevity and popularity, so it’s a safe bet to jump on this trend that is proving it is not a just fleeting fad. As an added insurance, this Kmart option is very budget friendly but still brings quality and a flattering cut for a variety of body shapes. Wear it as you would any longer style, over jeans or workwear, and it also works back well with this season's knit midi and maxi dresses. 

Price: $40.00

Mid range: Classic - Zara ZW Collection Trench Coat

There is nothing more classic than a camel trench coat and every year Zara does these very well for the broader mass market. They’re well cut, well made, and the fabric is both hard wearing and easy to clean. A great mid range price point that will last multiple seasons. Zara often releases these in multiple colour options as well as different fabrications (this season there is a great faux-leather style), so you can expand your trench collection and experiment with colour and texture without breaking the bank. 

Price: $239.00

Luxe: Colour - Camilla and Marc Evans Trench Coat

This trench is a timeless colour that works back perfectly with all shades of blue denim and is such an elegant choice for a statement spring hue. Camilla and Marc are well known for creating signature quintessential trench coats each season, and for spring 2024 they have released this stunning ice blue offering. An investment piece like this, cared for properly, will be a wardrobe staple for many, many years to come. Personally, I chose to invest in a C&M trench, and it has been the coat that I have reached for the most. 

Price: $900.00

To discuss this edit and share your ideas on which trench coat you love and how you'd style it, join the community today.

For further trench coat styling ideas, check out the video below — How to Style Trench Coats with Lydia Tomlinson.