The word "staple" means different things to different people. Depending on your aesthetic, your wardrobe staples might consist of bright printed dresses, embellished bags and high heels. For others, staples take the form of simple t-shirts, leather jackets, and trainers. There's no right or wrong—such is the beauty of fashion! However, if you were to ask me what I consider my style staples to be, I'd always say trench coats and loafers.
I try not to double up on items, but suffice it to say that trench coats and loafers are my weakness. I have a handful of trench coats in different colours and fabrications—leather, wool, and cotton in black, beige and grey—and, when I think about it, I probably have a loafer for each. Chunky, backless, horsebit-adorned—they're the shoe I wear most regularly, and I like having a few to interchange with different outfits. Both pieces work pretty well year-round, but I think they come into their own in the springtime when we begin phasing out our puffers and UGGs for something, well, a little lighter.
Content creator Lorna regularly relies on her trench coat and loafers for easy styling solutions.
I know I'm not the only fashion editor who relies on these pieces to look sleek with minimal effort; come fashion week, you can expect to see attendees wearing trench coat-and-loafer outfits in their droves. That got me thinking, why not assemble some full-proof outfits utilising my favourite items to 1) inspire myself, and 2) inspire you, too.
Chances are you might already own a trench coat or loafers (or both!); still, I've listed a few of my current shopping options below, which I've used to build some easy outfits around. From classic jeans and knitted dresses to tailored trousers and miniskirts, scroll on to see five trench coat-and-loafer outfits I wouldn't mind wearing this spring.
1. Jeans + White Shirt
Style Notes: There's no casual outfit that's quite as effective as jeans and a white shirt—especially when it involves our hero pieces.
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The woollen fabric of this trench coat will bridge the gap between cosy coats and springtime jackets.
Every wardrobe could benefit from a relaxed-fit shirt.
This also comes in a silver hue.
I'm wearing my jeans loosely this season.
I love this new Loewe Puzzle bag colourway.
The addition of a contrast stitch sets these loafers apart from the rest.
2. Stripe Knit + Pleated Miniskirt
Style Notes: Tap into the season's preppy trend with a pleated miniskirt and stripe jumper. Then, give it grown-up polish with some penny loafers, a timeless beige trench, and gold wrist candy.
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If you're looking for a trench coat that ticks all the classic boxes, this is it.
I have a feeling this Arket knit will be the next big thing for the brand.
Pleated skirts can often look immature, but this one feels elevated.
This watch looks more expensive than it is.
The slightly-glossed finish on these loafers works for day or nighttime wear.
3. Hoodie + Leggings
Style Notes: There's nothing quite as comfortable as wearing leggings and a hoodie, but if you're looking for a way to upgrade the combination, a trench coat and loafers is the answer.
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This subtle sage-green shade will still work with almost everything in your wardrobe.
A very chic take on the hoodie indeed.
Our editors use this COS crossbody bag daily.
Split-hem leggings are all the rage this season.
My second-day hair saviour.
Run, don't walk: Marks & Spencer has just created the ultimate chunky loafer.
4. Top + Wide-Leg Trousers
Style Notes: I used to wear high heels almost on the daily but, since lockdown, I've become a flat-shoe convert. For nights out, I opt for loafers with chunky gold horsebit or chain detailing. Trench-wise, it's got to be faux leather.
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I've owned a faux leather trench coat for years and still get so much wear out of it.
IMO, this is the perfect going-out top.
Arket's new edit of pearl jewellery is incredibly beautiful.
These tailored trousers come in an extended size range.
Boden understood the statement loafer assignment.
5. Knitted Dress + Shoulder Bag
Style Notes: I've been neglecting dresses lately (i hate being cold and I only have so many options that work with tights). However, now the temperatures are rising, I'll be transitioning out of my opaques and slipping into a knitted midi. Loafers and a trench coat complete the look, don't you agree?
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The volumised sleeves on this trench create a cool silhouette.
Rectangular sunglasses make any outfit look more current.
Our editors are crushing hard on this knitted dress.
Another Charles & Keith bag that looks significantly more costly than it is.
I'm petite, so a block heel is a welcome addition to loafer as far as I'm concerned.
Next Up: I Love a Good Blazer—Here Are 10 Ways to Wear The Staple This Spring
This post originally appeared on Who What Wear UK.
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