A classic, beige trench coat is a wardrobe staple that will never go out of style. Not only is it a quintessential component of a minimalist’s wardrobe, but it’s also an item you can wear and hold onto forever. Thanks to its timeless details and neutral color palette, the best trench coats for women can do no wrong. They are hardworking outerwear pieces that can transition through the seasons with ease, working for a variety of climates and weather changes (impromptu rain showers, for one!).

The Timeless Appeal of Trench Coats

The trench is a coat that has been relied on for decades. In 1879, Thomas Burberry invented gabardine, the weather-proofed, cotton textile the coats were infamously constructed from, making fashion history. Initially designed for military use, over the years, these coats have become a stylish staple, featured in many Hollywood films—such as Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s to Meryl Streep in Kramer vs. Kramer—and pop culture moments, eventually making the trench coat a bonafide fashion item.

Vogue’s Guide to Must-Have Trench Coats

• The Investment Classic: Burberry mid-length Kensington heritage trench coat, $2,590
• The Perfect Mac: Everlane the Mac coat, $178
• The Khaki Alternative: The Frankie Shop Mavis twill trench coat, $345
• The Modern Leather: Toteme croc-effect leather coat, $3,000
• The Suede Topper: Alexa Chung for Madewell double-breasted blazer overcoat, $850
• The Caped Crusader: COS cropped trench coat cape, $150
• The Remixed and Remastered: Róhe double collar trench coat, $1,260
• The Cropped and Cool: Mango cropped trench coat with lapels, $100

Modern Interpretations on the Runway

Since then, there have been many updated interpretations of the trench coat, making modern day options all the more interesting. The fall/winter 2024 runway collections showed us the endless possibilities. Burberry’s collection was peppered with riffs on the classics, from shiny leather toppers to a frill-forward shape in butter yellow, while Chemena Kamali’s stunning debut at Chloé introduced captivating caped variations.

Exploring Various Styles

The Traditional Trenches

When it comes to heritage coats, these beige, double-breasted, belted, and collared styles are timeless. Options range from luxury Burberry pieces to affordable choices at H&M:

• H&M twill trench coat: $75
• Burberry Kensington heritage trench coat: $2,590
• Ralph Lauren double-breasted twill trench coat: $798

The Minimalist Macs

Focused on water-resistant fabrication for rainy days. These streamlined single-breasted silhouettes are favorites of many:

• Ralph Lauren Flemming washed-cotton trench coat: $4,750
• The Row’s classic Mac-style: Priced at luxury boutiques

The New Neutrals

Diversify your outerwear closet with trench coats in colors like navy, chocolate brown, gray, or military green. These hues are versatile and timeless.

The Fashion-Forward Leathers

When made from leather, whether real or faux, the trench coat transforms into an edgy staple:

• J.Crew Collection trench coat in leather: $850
• Toteme croc-effect leather coat: $3,000

The Suede Toppers

Suede trench coats evoke a luxurious feel. Opt for modern basics to style these pieces effectively.

The Caped Crusaders

Caped silhouettes have become stylish must-haves, offering a refined take on the classic trench.

The Remixed Classics

Modern interpretations include updated twists like double collars and leather belt trimmings:

The Chopped and Cropped

Cropped versions of trench coats maintain their classic appeal, making them versatile for various occasions.