Is it too early to declare that spring has arrived? We certainly have the light showers and dusting of daffodils, but most importantly, we're seeing the return of one iconic spring wardrobe staple: the trench coat. Sitting alongside classic loafers, crisp white shirts and wide-leg, tailored trousers, the trench coat is one of those perennial pieces that you’ll find in every fashion insider's wardrobe. To reach capsule-wardrobe status isn’t an easy feat, but after decades as a reliable outerwear option come rain or shine, the trench coat’s popularity shows no signs of waning. Whilst there are a smattering of worthwhile investment styles, this season, the high street is offering an array of elegant yet far more affordable versions. One brand that's excelling in particular? Good old Marks and Spencer.
Digital creator Zarah wears the Cotton Rich Longline Trench Coat in Antique Green.
The trench exemplifies the concept of form and function in fashion, resulting in a put-together outerwear piece with the practicality to protect us when the heavens open. Unlike the winter coats that we can now (optimistically) pack away, the lightweight design of a trench coat lends itself to warmer transseasonal days. And it's not just spring that calls for such a piece; come autumn, we'll once again slot our trenches into our outfit builds, as this roomy silhouette can accompany layered knits for milder days too. The versatility doesn’t stop there, as the timeless design of a trench coat means that it can be combined with any outfit. I’ve layered a trench coat over a midi dress for an evening out, thrown it over my workout gear when headed for a stroll and slipped it on when facing spring showers on my office commute. Truly, the trench coat does it all.
What makes M&S such a clever place to start when adding this smart piece to your wardrobe is the range of styles on offer. As with all timeless creations, the trench coat's classic design has been retained over the years, but M&S acknowledges that we all have different preferences. You'll find faux-leather styles, cropped silhouettes and a mix of shades that feel just as premium as the iconic beige colourway that started it all.
Keep scrolling to explore M&S's trench coats for spring 2024.
SHOP MARKS AND SPENCER'S TRENCH COATS:
The storm flap is a nice nod to the traditional trench design.
The contrast buttons add to the elevated feel of this one.
Wear open or button it up and cinch with the belt.
This shorter style may be less practical for a downpour, but you can't deny how chic it is.
This style also comes in a petite version.
I haven't stopped thinking about this green style since I spotted Zarah wearing it [pictured above].
Like many of M&S's brilliant trench coats, this one keeps selling out. It gets restocked frequently though, so sign up to get notified when it's back in stock.
Navy is endlessly chic.
This car coat emulates the feel of a trench and has an innovative finish to protect from those sudden showers.
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