It was September when I first laid my eyes on this particular piece—a sleek faux-leather trench coat from Marks & Spencer. In my collection of saved outfit ideas, a leather trench coat kept cropping up, and finally, I had found one that was not only incredibly chic but a seriously reasonable price tag considering the elevated style.
But, as happens more often than not when a great new piece hits the high street, in a flash, it was gone. The great thing about fashion is that the very best pieces often tend to come back around, and luckily for me, M&S has just had a restock of the Faux Leather Belted Trench Coat (£89) that's been on my mind for months now. This time, I won't let it slip through my fingers.
In my quest to shop more considerately, there are a few rituals I now go through before adding an item to my basket. First, how timeless is it? Any piece that gets added to my wardrobe has to be able to transcend moving trends and earn its spot in my collection for years to come. And in this case, with its versatile colour, classic trench design and a cool edge from the faux leather, this coat definitely fits the bill. Second, how would I wear it? There have been many pieces I've adored, but if something doesn't work with my personal style, then it'll inevitably be relegated to the back of my wardrobe, alongside the mismatched socks I've never found the time to pair up.
That's why I'm here—to show exactly how I plan to style this faux-leather coat throughout winter, spring and autumn for many years to come. You might find that you already have the pieces required to re-create some of these outfits, as that's the brilliance of a capsule wardrobe. But if you spot a piece that could bolster your daily outfit builds, I've shopped out my finds for extra ease.
Before I run to checkout, here are five ways I plan to style the M&S faux-leather trench.
5 Ways to Style the M&S Faux Leather Trench Coat
1. Trench Coat + Classic Tee + Denim Skirt
Style Notes: A denim skirt, be it midi or maxi, has become a modern staple within our wardrobes. Just like the trench, it's a versatile piece for pretty much any occasion. For a minimalist look, I'm pairing it with other tried-and-true pieces, such as a classic white T-shirt and knee-high boots. And to add a little fashion flair, I'd sling this expensive-looking scarf around my neck to pull it all together.
Shop the Outfit:
The coat in question.
Wear as a neckerchief, bandana or tied around a ponytail for a pop of print.
A classic white tee is a true wardrobe hero.
I'm a big fan of this dark-blue wash.
A few of of our editors have already snapped up this pair.
2. Trench Coat + Striped Knit + Tailored Trousers
Style Notes: It wouldn't be a Who What Wear UK outfit build without a stripe, and this H&M knit looks so premium that I did a double take. For a smart-casual blend, tailoring and Breton stripes are always a safe bet, alongside classic loafers and a sleek tote. The trench is a nice way to tie together the contrasting textures and add a polished finish.
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The fabric looks so supple.
The gold buttons on this cardigan complement the cream tones.
You may know by now that we're big fans of Reformation's Mason Pant.
A classic addition to your workwear and weekend wardrobes.
Elegant, beautifully crafted and sure to become a faithful companion to so many of your looks.
3. Trench Coat + Black Top + White Jeans
Style Notes: I've stuck to monochromatic pieces for this elevated evening ensemble. From work meetings to cocktail evenings, this simple yet effective combination is one I know I'm going to rely on for a long time to come.
Shop the Outfit:
I love the nod to classic coat shapes with the double-breasted detailing.
These are making their way to me as we speak.
M&S has so many great pieces right now, including this sleek cutout top.
This relaxed silhouette of Arket's Cloud jeans is a favourite amongst fashion people.
If you told me these were designer, I'd believe you.
4. Trench Coat + Wide Jeans + Trainers
Style Notes: On most days, a cosy knit with jeans and trainers is my outfit blueprint, so naturally I had to test out if my new trench could be the transitional outerwear piece to replace my wool coat as the weather gets brighter. I can confirm that it passed with flying colours.
Shop the Outfit:
It also comes in a sleek cream version.
A cosy layering piece you'll rely on throughout the changing seasons.
From the cut to the colour, I haven't stopped thinking about these jeans.
There's no denying that retro sneakers are big news for 2024.
It's all about large totes this year, and this one looks much more expensive than its price tag.
5. Trench Coat + Knitted Dress
Style Notes: See—I told you this coat was versatile. For a sleek evening look, a knitted dress has become a firm staple of mine, plus some heels for literal and figurative elevation. The length of the trench suits the long silhouette of the dress, and paired with a classic black bag and your favourite jewellery, this is a really easy look to throw together.
Shop the Outfit:
By now its clear that this is such a wearable piece.
The neckline and timeless shade make this feel like such a premium piece.
When it comes to understated looks, bold jewellery is the cherry on top.
The pleated strap immediately caught my eye.
I still can't believe these are from the high street.
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