There are few wardrobe staples as enduring – or as quietly powerful – as the trench coat. Season after season, it holds its place at the heart of every great wardrobe. This year, the classic silhouette is experiencing a modern renaissance, with designers reimagining its heritage details – think sharp lapels, storm flaps, belted waists – in fresher, more fluid shapes. The trench coat’s appeal lies in its versatility: polished enough for the office, casual enough for weekend chill-time, and effortlessly layered to transition between seasons.
Below, marie claire editors celebrate the standout trenches of the moment. From buttery soft classics to architectural updates on tradition, here are the coats our team are investing in – and exactly why.
Why the Trench Coat is Always in Style
The trench coat’s timeless status comes down to three things: practicality, polish, and adaptability. Originally designed as military outerwear, the trench quickly became a symbol of modernity — from mid-century cinema icons to today’s fashion influencers, it remains a marker of cool confidence.
Now, contemporary designers are softening and expanding the silhouette. Oversized sleeves, dropped shoulders, lightweight fabrics, and muted tones are redefining the trench as something more relaxed and directional — while still rooted in its iconic DNA.
What to Look for in a 2025 Trench Coat
A great trench coat is about more than just the sum of its details – it’s a mood-setter, a wardrobe anchor, and a layering essential. When selecting your style, think about proportion, texture, and tone.
marie claire’s fashion editor Jordan Boorman is backing clean minimalism this season. “The camilla and marc Dia Car Coat is the trench reinvented for today’s minimalist. I love its refined, streamlined design — no fussy details, just a flawless silhouette with a cool, oversized sleeve. It’s the kind of piece you can throw over a tailored suit or simple jeans and feel instantly polished. To me, it’s the definition of understated luxury,” she says.
How marie claire Editors Are Styling It Now
marie claire’s editor Georgie McCourt is leaning into the relaxed structure of the Evans Classic Trench, also by camilla and marc. “The Evans Trench has that perfect blend of traditional and effortless. The twill fabric and double-breasted shape give it a sense of timelessness, but the relaxed fit makes it feel easy and wearable every day. I love layering it over tonal knits and trousers – it’s a go-to for that chic, off-duty vibe,” she says.
With its storm flaps, shoulder epaulettes, and removable belt, this coat ticks all the traditional boxes, but its soft tailoring makes it supremely wearable. Try it over wide-leg pants and a ribbed turtleneck for a neutral look that feels anything but basic.
marie claire online editor Maddison Hockey finds her favourite in the Sézane Clyde Trench, a cult-favourite from the Parisian label: “I’m completely obsessed with the Clyde Trench from Sézane. It has all the classic codes – the collar, the belt, the neutral shade – but the oversized shape gives it this borrowed-from-the-boys ease. Plus, the checked lining and water-repellent finish are the kind of thoughtful details that make it feel so special. It’s a trench you’ll live in, rain or shine.”
How to Style a Trench for Every Occassion
For workdays, “layer a classic trench over structured tailoring, finish with leather loafers or kitten heels, and add a statement bag for polish,” advises marie claire fashion director Naomi Smith. “For off-duty, style with vintage denim, a white tee, and sneakers. Look for trenches with a relaxed cut or oversized fit for that effortless vibe.”
For date night, Smith advises drapping a longer-line trench over a fitted knit dress or satin slip. “Add bold earrings and a sleek clutch for instant impact,” she says.
Experiment with cropped trench coats or ones in unexpected hues – khaki, stone blue, or clay – for a contemporary twist. But if in doubt? A camel or beige trench will never fail you.”
We’ve rounded up the best trench coats to shop in Australia right now, below.
The Best Trench Coats For 2025
Dia Car Single-Breasted Trench Coat in Oyster,
$750, at camilla and marc
Oversized Trench Coat in Water-Repellent Twill,
$2140, from Max Mara
Layered Double-Breasted Trench Coat,
$329, from COS
Sézane Clyde Trench Coat, $570
What Is The Most Popular Trench Coat Colour?
These days, trench coats come in every colour possible from neutrals to patterns and bold brights. The most popular trench coat is the classic camel or beige colourway, which is perfect for pairing back with everything.
Looking to save money on trench coats? Check out our coupon codes for The Iconic , Aje and more.
Related article:
- These Are Hands Down The Best Jeans For Women
- 6 Key Pieces We’re Adding To Our Autumn Capsule Wardrobes
- 9 Fleece-Lined Leggings For That Extra Level Of Warmth
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