14 Trench Coat Outfits You'll Want to Bookmark

person wearing short trench coat with heels — Photo:
Updated on April 2, 2025 @ 08:12AM

Classic, versatile, and effortless: When a piece of clothing checks all those boxes, you know it belongs in your closet. Beloved for its utility and timeless good looks, the dependable trench coat is both fashionable and functional, making it a must-have for shoulder seasons. If you're already contemplating how to style this wardrobe staple, you may be asking yourself, “Can I wear a trench coat with a dress?” or “What type of shirt should I wear under a trench coat?”

To break down the answers, we enlisted the help of expert Samantha Belfer Braham. From dresses, jeans, and crop tops, you'll be pleased to know that trench coats go with virtually everything hanging up in your closet. Even better, the trench coat is an article of clothing that makes every outfit you wear it with cooler.

Meet the expert

Samantha Belfer Braham is a co-founder and co-owner of Streetstyleshooters / Getty Images Savannah Jamess 10 Best Looks, From Courtside to the Red Carpet.

Ahead, discover styling tips along with 14 of our favorite ways to wear a trench coat, from draped over the shoulder to belted at the waist.

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Cute and Cropped

Person wears a cropped trench coat in Cannes, France — Jeremy Moeller / Getty Images

"Something I’m loving this season is a cropped trench," Belfer Braham says. "With a cropped trench, you can keep your outfit more minimal. I’d pair it with a muted top, straight leg jeans, and sneakers." If you don't wear your trench coat because it doesn't feel wearable, a cropped version gives the best of both worlds.

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With Knee High Boots

Trench coats are timeless, but that doesn't mean they can't serve some drama. This double-breasted iteration is belted and paired with black knee-high boots. The bare legs are an unexpected touch, creating a daring ensemble that's just right for springtime.

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Casually Cool with Jeans

Person wears a beige trench coat in Berlin, Germany — Updated on April 2, 2025 @ 08:12AM

add some unexpected flare to complete the look? "Y2K is back and oversized, casual cool is in," Belfer Braham says. "Dress down your oversized trench coat with a tee, baggy jeans, and a dad sneaker. Add a bag and some layered jewelry to complete this street style look that's perfect for a day of shopping or weekend brunch."

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In a Bold Print

Person wears a printed trench coat during London Fashion Week — Updated on April 2, 2025 @ 08:12AM

Most trench coats you'll find are of the beige variety, but if you're feeling a little wild, opt for a unique print. This style packs a punch, however, the black, white, and brown color combination can be worn on repeat—and with just about every color in your fall wardrobe.

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Paired With a Two-Piece Suit

Person seen wearing a khaki trench coat over a suit in Paris, France — Streetstyleshooters / Getty Images

Alternatively, a trench coat can be worn with elevated, high-fashion looks. "A trench coat is a great way to achieve that quiet luxury vibe," Belfer Braham tells Cheap Erlebnisweltfliegenfischen Jordan Outlet. "Layer your trench over a monochromatic outfit and accessorize with oversized sunglasses; it’s polished and sophisticated for a meeting or dinner with friends."

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With a Crop Top and Pants

Person wears a beige trench coat over leather pants during New York Fashion Week — Updated on April 2, 2025 @ 08:12AM

What's better than one statement-making piece? Three! High-waist black leather pants and a crop top add edginess while the trench effortlessly pulls the look together.

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Over a Long-Sleeve Denim Dress

Person wears a beige trench coat over a denim dress during New York Fashion Week — Updated on April 2, 2025 @ 08:12AM

Another feature that makes trench coats so versatile is that you can find them in varying lengths. This long-sleeve denim minidress meets the jacket in the perfect spot, and chic brown boots are the cherry on top. The look is quintessentially spring.

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Over a Miniskirt

Person wears a black long trench coat over a skirt in Paris, France — Updated on April 2, 2025 @ 08:12AM

Experiment with a black trench to take your look from day to night. This look is the definition of business on the top, party on the bottom with its knee-high boots, Types of Blazers to Have in Your Wardrobe.

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Unexpected Colorblocking

Person wears a colorful belted trench coat in Paris, France — Updated on April 2, 2025 @ 08:12AM

This trench coat is the moment. Its eye-catching color scheme is as bold as its coordinating blue pumps. The coat is a piece that even those with a propensity for neutrals can't overlook. With a look this bold, reach for layering pieces are more neutral.

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Draped Over a Minidress

Person wears a beige long trench coat over a dress during New York Fashion Week — Updated on April 2, 2025 @ 08:12AM

A utilitarian trench can also help ground more daring styles. "Make your trench coat sexy by styling it over a metallic minidress," Belfer Braham advises. "Then pair it with silver pointed pumps and matte leather handbag for date night."

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Belted Over a Maxidress

Person wears a white trench coat over a maxi dress in Sydney, Australia — vibe, Belfer Braham tells

Revive your favorite maxi dress by layering on a belted trench coat. The belt defines your waist and creates shape to add some visual interest to your outfit. Plus, it's great for transitional weather that isn't super hot or super cold.

If you're petite or just skeptical about an oversized fit, don't be. "The beauty of a trench coat is that it has a belt that can cinch at the waist to make details like structured shoulders or big lapels less overwhelming," says Belfer Braham.

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In a Seasonal Hue

Person wears a brown trench in Milan, Italy — The Stylish Guide to Packing for a Spring Break Trip, According to Experts

Fall is all about rich earth tones like browns and camels. Lean into the season and opt for apropos outerwear. These shades often pair well with anything in your closet, whether it be denim, black, and even like colors (we see you, burnt orange).

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With a Tube Top

Pairing a trench coat with something casual like a tube top can make it feel less intimidating and structured. The vibe of this look is casual yet oh-so-chic. Plus, the studded ballet flats Carmen Sandiego, who.

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Embellished On the Inside

Person wears a sequined trench coat at Paris Fashion Week — Updated on April 2, 2025 @ 08:12AM

Blink and you'll miss the sequined lining in this duster trench coat. The statement piece is styled with tailored wide-leg pants, a blue shirt buttoned to the top, and a pop of color by way of Fendi. Work, meet play.