The trench coat just keeps on coming back. Having been tied around the waists of rain-bravers for more than 100 years, the trench has its roots in the uniforms of the British military. And whether it's Burberry's or Aquascutum's claim to creating the first "real" trench coat that you side with, one thing that's pretty much undisputed is this outerwear piece's enduring place in style.
Sitting on the more formal side of the coat rail, the trench is smart in more ways than one. Of course, its double-breasted, long-body make-up affords a sense of sophistication that other outerwear, such as bombers or puffers, are just never going to provide. Better yet? It's practical, too.
If you're looking for a winter coat that isn't going to weigh you down, the trench is ideal. It's lightweight, versatile, and waterproof — thanks to Thomas Burberry's pioneering gabardine fabric. Add that to the fact that it's been around for so damn long, and it's confirmed that there are far less sensible ways to invest your cash.
This season, the timeless trench coat has received several reworkings, with brands including 1017 ALYX 9SM, Maison Margiela, and Gucci offering up their own modern interpretations of this out-and-out classic. You'll find the latest at luxury site Luisaviaroma.
Shop this season's best trench coats below.
A.P.C.
Though Burberry and Aquascutum both played pivotal roles in designing the trench as we know it today, its original, military-use form was down to Charles Macintosh. The Mac-style trench is the product of his ingenuity, and this A.P.C. military green edition is a ready-and-waiting staple.
Arc'teryx
The name Arc'teryx has come to signify ultimate weather-protection in just three syllables, while simultaneously dressing the front row. This wind- and waterproof option from the camp-store-gone-high-fashion brand is both sleek and secure.
1017 ALYX 9SM
Fashion would not be fashion if designers didn't continue to reimagine classics for a modern audience. Matthew Williams does exactly that here, decking the trench coat out in full nylon and adding one of his signature buckles at the belt.
Gucci
While brands like ALYX have given the trench a new look, other options, like this one from Gucci, show why this timeless item has barely had to change at all in over a century.
Department Five
Department Five is an Italian brand that blends military function with elements inspired by rock n' roll styles and attitude. Not unlike the trench itself, which the label gives a corduroy twist to.
ADER error
Surprisingly conformist for ADER error, which usual dabbles in neon palettes and off-kilter cuts, the Korean label stays true to the historic design of the trench. The coffee-dipped appearance of the belt is a nice touch.
Rochas
This blacked-out option by Rochas might be one for worshippers of dark lord Rick Owens.
Bottega Veneta
Bottega Veneta can do no wrong right now, with its boots and bags staking a claim to this season's very best. Also from its stunning FW20 collection, this big-buckled trench is modern tailoring at its best.
Maison Margiela
Another perfector of minimalism, Maison Margiela goes classic with its trench. Recycled wadding gives this one a bit more warmth, should you need it.
Loro Piana
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