There are some items in fashion that transcend all trends, eras and personal styles A trench coat is one of them. Like a good Breton, Gucci loafer or Chanel handbag, a classic trench remains one of those perennial wardrobe pieces that don’t age—one we reach for every year to elevate all our outfits. Purchase the perfect style, and you’ll turn to it again and again. I personally wear my favourite trench year-round, layering and de-layering as necessary. They truly shine in spring, though, when you’re desperate to wave goodbye to your wool coats for another year, but the transitional weather still calls for some protection from a cool breeze (or flurry of snow if this spring has anything to do with it).
Abi wears a Karen Millen trench.
Turn up to any fashion event in April, and I can guarantee you at least 50% of us will be wearing a trench, so you know it comes well and truly fashion expert approved. It helps that they work thrown over dresses, jeans, skirts, tailoring and just about any outfit you can think of. Dressed up or down, for a wedding or weekend, they always make you look polished. And the best part? You don’t need to spend thousands on a designer style to get that look. Yes, a Burberry or Totême style is a fantastic investment—one you’ll likely wear forever, so the cost per wear makes it worth it. But with so many amazing classic (and trend-led) versions on the high street these days, you can easily spend a lot less on a seriously impressive style.
Anouk wears COS's oversized trench coat.
So where to go to find the best on the high street? Keep scrolling, and you’ll find 25 beautiful trench coats from the likes of COS, H&M, Arket and more that you’ll never regret.
Shop the Best High-Street Trench Coats
If I were to invest in one trench this year, it would be this one. I love that the material feels sturdy and structured, and it's a timeless shape.
Arket does elevated staples so well, so it's unsurprising it has the perfect lightweight trench this season.
Karen Millen knows how to do polished tailoring, and this coat is no different.
Fashion people are turning to slightly more oversized trench coats recently. This one fits the bill.
I've tried this style on, and it's the ultimate roomy, relaxed trench. The material is on the heavier side, so it's still warm and falls beautifully.
This is such a bargain for a beautiful, classic piece.
Not only is this very on-trend and oversized, but it's also technical.
Dare we say, the perfect trench?
The texture of this style sets it apart and makes it feel fresh for spring.
Navy is an underappreciated colour that makes everything look chic, IMHO.
River Island is coming through with so many expensive-looking pieces this season.
This classic style is available up to size 4XL.
So minimalist and chic.
Although not the all-time classic, a short trench is a perfect jacket for warmer weather. It's also great if you're petite and don't like full-length coats to drown you.
Like a lot of COS pieces, this could easily pass for a designer style.
The checked storm flap on the back of this style makes it easy to transition into winter too.
I'm actually really into this black version.
I'd say this is the closest dupe for a classic Burberry style.
Checks are just as classic as simple beige.
For a twist on a classic, I love this style with gathered sleeves.
Want to steer away from the classic beige? Khaki is a great alternative.
Leather-look trench coats are my kryptonite. This has gone straight into my basket.
I love how slouchy this feels.
For a more relaxed approach, try Weekday's Fluid trench.
Colour-blocking makes for a modern but still timeless approach.
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