The iconic trench is a “product of its time as well as a symbol of it” as the gabardine textile invented in 1879 by Thomas Burberry allowed ventilation in a compact structure that revolutionized rainwear adding lightness and fluidity to a furthermore cumbersome garment.
Today, the trench coat is a principal element in autumn/winter styling as the double-breasted, tailored waist essential alludes to seasons change. Nothing reflects the dawn of crisp autumnal weather then the first spotting of outwear goodness, as if an exotic bird sighting—and the fashion crowd goes wild.
The trench coat is a statement in itself so don’t overthink the styling aspect, let the garment do the talking. We recommend the oversized route on this one, and the rule of thumb — more is more. The belted waistline will alleviate any boxy or unflattering lines you may equate with the trench coat as it flares knee-length covering a significant portion of the body that flirts with proportions and silhouettes.
Here we’ve chosen a barrel-like trench coat with voluminous sleeves. Pair your iconic trench with a pair of classic denim blue jeans, a white tee, statement chandelier earrings, and for a retro twist a doctor-like medicine handbag reminiscent of the 1950s to give you that mid-century modern aesthetic.