I Just Assembled 6 Expensive-Looking Ways to Wear Spring's Biggest Coat Trend

If there is any wardrobe essential capable of effortlessly navigating the trans-seasonal in-between, it has to be the trench coat. Just like the fine knits, jeans and loafers we automatically reach for when it's too cold for spring dresses and too mild for faux fur, the trench is one of the easiest items to cleverly layer up (or strip down) when need be. 

And yes, I agree, there isn't necessarily anything new about a classic trench, but don't be quick to write off this staple. It is anything but boring. Glossy or matte, camel or coloured, even longline or cropped, the trench coat is still as relevant as ever, and the key to its universal appeal and sheer timelessness is its versatility. Ask any fashion editor, and I promise you, they'll say the same. In fact, I'd go as far as to say there is likely a trench in the wardrobe of all of fashion's best dressed, and if Victoria Beckham's, Alexa Chung's and Kate Moss's trench coat outfits are anything to go by, this easy-but-effective piece manages to elevate a simple outfit from good to great

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(Image credit: @savinachow)

In the last 12 months, I've gotten plenty of wear out of an LVIR trench (that still remains one of my best purchases to date), and the best thing about it is the simplicity. No wacky belts and straps, no hidden extras, and no need for 1000 pockets, but if you're wondering how to repeatedly rewear the same brown, waist-cinched silhouette, I've got good news. I scoured all of my favourite stores to bring you six ways to wear a trench coat that all feel different and, most importantly, all look expensive. So keep scrolling for my best ideas on how to wear a trench coat now, and bookmark this page as a reference. You'll be seeing a lot more of the trench in the coming months. 

1. HOW TO WEAR A TRENCH COAT WITH JEANS AND ANKLE BOOTS 

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(Image credit: WHO WHAT WEAR)

Style Notes: Your new go-to for any event that requires a smart-casual dress code. Think brunches, dinners, office, or just a busy weekend.

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2. HOW TO WEAR A TRENCH COAT WITH A LITTLE BLACK DRESS AND HEELS 

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(Image credit: WHO WHAT WEAR )

Style Notes: Who says you can't dress up a trench coat for evening, too? When your everyday coat just won't cut it, try a sleek, longline leather coat that will go with everything from a smart suit to an LBD.

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3. HOW TO WEAR A TRENCH COAT WITH A HOODIE AND TRAINERS 

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(Image credit: WHO WHAT WEAR )

Style Notes: For the days you need to get ready in a hurry, this comfy combo tops the list. Taking tips from social media's "2X2" formula, take two dressier pieces (the trench and leather trousers) and pair them with two casual picks (in this case, the hoodie and trainers) for the perfect balance of high/low styling. 

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4. HOW TO WEAR A TRENCH COAT WITH A MIDI SKIRT AND KNEE-HIGH BOOTS 

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(Image credit: WHO WHAT WEAR )

Style Notes: Is there a better transitional outfit than the trench + midi skirt + knee-high boots? I don't think so. Warm enough for chilly spells but light enough layers for a busy commute, it's the easiest way to do practical with polish.

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5. HOW TO WEAR A TRENCH COAT WITH LEGGINGS AND FLAT BOOTS 

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(Image credit: WHO WHAT WEAR)

Style Notes: If you're heading out, be sure to wrap up in cosy layers that make cold-weather outings feel fun. Part gorpcore, part London uniform, the leggings + zip-up jumper look is an easy option for the days you want look good while putting in the least effort possible. 

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6. HOW TO WEAR A TRENCH COAT WITH A CARDIGAN AND MARY JANES 

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(Image credit: WHO WHAT WEAR )

Style Notes: Et voilà, a look straight from the streets of Paris. If you were to ask French influencers for their hero buys, there would be a bouclé jacket and a Chanel bag in the mix, but there would also undoubtedly be a trench, miniskirt, cardigan and Mary Janes on the list too. C'est chic, non?

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Up Next, These 5 Key Coat Trends Will Dominate Your 2023 Wardrobe

Fashion Editor

Remy Farrell is a London-based shopping editor with nearly 10 years of editorial experience covering fashion, beauty and lifestyle. After graduating with a journalism degree and working on the editorial and fashion teams for titles such as Grazia, Elle, Cosmopolitan and British Vogue, she moved into the luxury e-commerce sector, working as fashion assistant at TheOutnet.com styling for the social media channels and helping to develop the collections for the in-house brand Iris & Ink. After expanding an assisting and styling portfolio that includes shooting talent such as Gigi Hadid, Victoria Beckham and Miquita Oliver, she also branched out into beauty, creating tried-and-tested reviews and diverse beauty content.

In her role as shopping editor at Who What Wear, Remy is interested in discovering new and exciting brands to share with the Who What Wear readership and particularly loves uncovering hidden gems at affordable prices to make shopping accessible to everyone.

Born and raised in Sheffield, Yorkshire, Remy moved to London in 2014 and lives in the Docklands with her partner and pug Billie.