I'm a self-proclaimed outerwear connoisseur. Or at least, that's how I explain my never-ending collection of trendy jackets and coats. No look feels complete without the addition of a chic coat or jacket styled over top. They make an outfit, which explains the number of outerwear styles that have reached icon status over the years. Though none seem to be as classic and synonymous with spring as the trench coat. Since the advent of the garment in the late 1800s, it hasn't lost its charm. And while I have my fair share of trenches ready to go every spring, I'll admit I crave trench coat alternatives every now and then.
Please don't take this as shade thrown at the impeccable trench. However, with all the cool styles of coats and jackets in existence, my own creative whims just won't settle for a uniform when it comes to outerwear. I love a reliable rotation, and knowing what fashion-people-approved trench coat alternatives exist, it's easier to put together a variety of outfits for the season that feel less same-y and more unique. There will always be a place for trench coat outfits, but the following options are equally as stylish when you're ready to hang up your gabardine for a day or two.
If you love length, a silk coat will provide a similar silhouette. If you love the components of a classic trench but are craving a fresh take, a cropped trench coat might suit. Or if you're looking for something totally different, cropped jackets, denim jackets and blazers are at the ready. The ideas are endless, but the following five are a great starting point when you're looking to swap out your trench for equally chic trench coat alternatives.
5 Trench Coat Alternatives to Try This Spring
1. Technical Jacket
Style Notes: Oh, do I love the swish of a technical jacket. They're light and bring movement and shape to your outfit through a more athletic lens. But despite the casual appearance, technical and utility jackets are capable of feeling a little more elevated. Take Danielle Jinadu's look, as seen above, as an example—with trousers in a matching shade and contrasting accessories, you get a very stylish outfit.
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I love the mix of the warmer white hue and the silver zips and toggles.
Just when I thought I didn't need another parka, this one came along. I love the bubble shape, ability to cinch the hem and the ruching on the front.
The check print is such a delightful choice for spring.
This one is chic but has built in weather resistance (a must for a UK spring).
2. Cropped Trench Coat
Style Notes: All kinds of cropped jackets are trending this year from bombers to quilted jackets to trenches. They're a great alternative to standard-length trench coats, which aren't always necessary on warmer spring and summer days. The cut sits nicely with high-waisted trousers or voluminous skirts and is a fun way to play with proportions. London-based content creator, Liv Madeline's choice of a buttermilk button-down underneath hers plays to both the cropped and butter yellow trends.
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From the maker of the original trench coat comes a very relevant cropped version.
With this jacket, you get a modern cropped cut with the classic double-breasted buttons.
A great warmer colour alternative to the classic beige trench.
Funnel-neck jackets are another on-trend style for this year.
3. Silk Coat
Style Notes: If you love the length of a trench coat but would like to up the whimsy, I present to you silk coats. This flowing pieces look gorgeous draped over nearly any outfit and are the perfect light layer for this time of year. I'm taking Débora Rosa's vanilla-coloured option (pictured above) as a great example of how to make an all-black outfit feel fit for spring and summer.
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Whilst many silk and satin trenches are quite flowy, this one has a sharper cut.
The buttons and collar make this an instant classic.
This rust-coloured is especially polished for spring, and has been recently worn by Carey Mulligan whilst promoting the second season of Netflix's award-winning anthology series, Beef.
This is such an elegant alternative to a canvas trench coat.
4. Cropped Leather Jacket
Style Notes: Leather jackets are one of my all-time favourite go-tos for making an outfit feel sleeker. A cropped version (and one in a cool cream or grey like multi-hyphante creator Absiola Omole's seen above) is an exceptional way of making this specific style of outerwear work for warmer seasons, as they don't feel or look as heavy as their relaxed and bomber-style counterparts.
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It's hard to say no to a beige that can pass for butter yellow.
Without a collar or zipper, this feels less wintery.
Green is a nice choice for spring and really stands out from the black and brown leather jackets out there.
The blurred lines of suede also feel lighter for spring, especially in a beige hue.
5. Denim Jackets
Style Notes: Denim jackets are so easy to style, and it's this versatility that makes them a wonderful alternative to a trench coat. They can be laid back when you pair them with cool cargo trousers, as seen above, or you can dress them up slightly by opting for a dark indigo shade for both your jacket and trousers. Like trench coats, denim jackets will always remain timeless.
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Reformation's Brooks jacket comes in four very chic shades of blue.
My idea of jacket perfection? A denim and cropped jacket blend.
An ecru denim jacket will take you into summer.
Shackets are the answer to the days when a coat is too heavy and a shirt is too light.
6. Blazers
Style Notes: When it's too warm for a jacket but you're in need of a chic finishing touch, you can always lean on a blazer. Take this linen version, which is a breathable and polished option for the season and works well with capri leggings—another trendy item.
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White and linen go hand in hand from now until autumn.
Alongside of pale yellow and pink, light blue is big this spring, too.
A relaxed silhouette is always cool over top of jeans or leggings. This one comes in chocolate brown and beige.
I'm partial to neutrals, but this dusty pink-brown shade has my attention.