A Complete Guide to the Best Trench Coats to Shop Now and Wear Forever

A prime example of a wardrobe staple that will never go out of style? A classic beige trench coat. Not only is it a quintessential component of the minimalist wardrobe (and part of Vogue’s wardrobe essentials guide for 2023), 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 can do no wrong.

After all, it’s a coat people have relied on for decades. Back in 1879, Thomas Burberry invented gabardine, the weatherproofed cotton textile the coats are known for, and he made fashion history—though technically, at the time, he was outfitting military not the style-set. But thanks to features in Hollywood films and pop culture, the trench coat eventually transitioned into a full-on fashion item.

Since then, there have been many updated interpretations of the coat that have made it not only a staple but a very stylish one at that. From Burberry to Max Mara, we often see remixed versions of the trench coat—beyond beige gabardine—on the runways, which certainly keeps the piece top of mind each season.

Some of our favorite trenches are crafted slick leathers, two-tones, and non-traditional hues. There are even cropped versions of the coat! To narrow it down, find our ultimate edit of the best trench coats for women for every style and need– shop them all below.

Traditional Trench

When it comes to a heritage coat, it’s hard to go wrong. These classic beige double-breasted, belted, and collared styles are as timeless as ever and are a staple when it comes to outerwear.

Stylish Signatures

In addition to the foundational elements that make a trench a trench, these modern interpretations of the beige coat include updated details like two-tone paneling, puffed sleeves, and embellishments.

Made for Matrix

In leather, the trench coat transforms from its heritage roots to downright downtown cool, these ultra-luxe looks are loved by supermodels and fashion girls alike.

Quintessential Coats

Because of its water-resistant fabrication, trench coats are a common style choice for spring’s rainy days. This selection of single-breasted silhouettes is similar to that of a Mac coat, streamlined with no extra bells and whistles.

New Neutrals

While its most recognizable beige, camel, and khaki coloring make the trench considered a very versatile garment, one in a different color feels just as timeless when keeping to its signature silhouette. Navy and olive green would be a good place to start, while one in bright red or a pale  blue would certainly diversify your outerwear.

Cropped Coats

By now, you’re familiar with the trench coat, but how about the trench… jacket? Similar to the hemlines of the season’s dresses and skirts, even trench coats are going shorter. There are both cropped styles and standard jacket lengths.