10 Trench Coat Outfits That Modernize the Classic Piece

Trench coats are a forever part of our wardrobes. The timeless silhouette withstands the changing seasons and has staying power across evolving fashion tastes and trends (and, if you’re lucky enough to snag a waterproof version, a trench provides a trusty respite from the elements). If you’ve relegated these longline coats to preppy and business casual ensembles, though, think again—after all, this versatile statement piece took a starring role in everything from Gossip Girl to Scandal and even Zendaya’s internet-breaking “I Told Ya” fashion moment. Keep scrolling to browse 10 fresh trench coat outfit ideas, including key inspiration from icons across the style spectrum.

Attention to Detail

Take the season’s top jacket trend for a spin by blending it with a familiar silhouette. This sleek, waxed-finish coat from J.Crew has all the details of an on-trend barn jacket combined with the tried-and-true structure of a trench, creating a look that works everywhere from the city to the English countryside. Keep things unexpected with a highly saturated handbag and square-toe boots, which team up to add a hint of playful funkiness.

Blue Jean Baby

Calling all it-girls: If a neutral trench is a bit too basic for your closet, why not select a more trend-forward variation? By switching up the fabric to something like denim, you’re still able to incorporate the classic coat while creating a more unique feel.

Trending Textures

Bohemian details have played a large part in this year’s trend cycle, but that isn’t the only ’70s-inspired aesthetic enjoying airtime. Retro elements—like seamed flared jeans, funky belts, and suede fabrics—can also signal a fresh spin on the timeless trench coat. The way that Alessandra Ambrosio styles all of these together is positively dreamy.

Street Style Serve

We can’t forget the moment that Zendaya spoke volumes with this cheeky ensemble, post-Challengers release. Score her effortlessly cool energy by pairing a pop culture-savvy top (like an updated Sabrina Carpenter tour tee) with straightforward basics. Wide-leg pants keep things modern, while a trench coat brings a sense of balance to the entire look.

Feeling Neutral

Autumn is peak skort weather, and we’re marking the occasion with a cohesive gray plaid mini and beige trench coat (such as this one from Good American). Resist the instinct to slip into a preppy pair of loafers—this time, we’re choosing an edgy Chelsea boot with a thick tread to drum up some contrast.

Cream Coat

Elegant and practical, this coat silhouette fits right into Sofia Richie Grainge’s wardrobe (and her Instagram grid, too). Take a page out of her book by selecting a longline version in a cream shade, then contrast it with a sleek all-black ensemble. Pointed-toe heels add a touch of sparkle, too.

Orchard Adventures

Nope, this preppy outerwear isn’t just for city slickers—trench coats can be functional pieces primed for outdoor adventures, too. For a style-forward approach to utilitarian style, we recommend choosing a brand known for its athletic wear, like Athleta or Alo Yoga. A denim shoulder bag finishes out the entire ensemble.

Sheer Joy

Trench coats were made to incorporate into your day-to-day wardrobe. Keep things casual by reaching for a semi-sheer cream top—we love this sweet pointelle take—and low-lift ripped jeans. By mixing polished pieces and down-to-earth basics, you walk away with a casual look ideal for travel days and weekend errands.

Sleek Sophistication

Reneé Rapp knows a thing or two about elevating a basic piece. She’s known to add an unexpected spin to dressed-up blazers and experiment with outfit proportions. Follow her lead yet again by selecting some ’70s-inspired athletic shorts to pair with sleek knee-high boots for an expected combo that just works.

Classic Approach

Teeny-tiny eyeglasses and sunglasses are one of the year’s biggest trends, and we’re using this ultra-chic accessory to breathe fresh life into our favorite outerwear. To keep things wearable, we’re pairing slightly undersized specs and an elegant turtleneck for a tried-and-true spin on the trench coat outfit.