Thomas Burberry invented gabardine and patented it in 1879, and by the First World War both Burberry and Aquascutum were supplying coats to British Army officers, according to the Victoria and Albert Museum. After the war, demobilised soldiers brought the coats into towns and cities, and the trench coat became everyday fashion. A garment designed for mud and rain now works on a commute, in an office and at a dinner.
This guide gives you eight trench coat outfit ideas, with fit and length advice, what to wear under it, colour options and a short section for men. Because Wikipedia notes that the trench coat was typically worn as a windbreaker or rain jacket and is usually less warm than an overcoat, it also explains how to layer it for cooler fall days.
A Short History of the Trench Coat
Wikipedia explains that the trench coat was first developed for British Army officers before the First World War, as an alternative to heavy serge greatcoats, and was named for its popularity in the trenches. The original fabric was gabardine, waterproofed before weaving, and the traditional colour was khaki.
The Features That Define It
| Feature | Original purpose | Styling note |
|---|---|---|
| Double-breasted front | Wind protection | Gives structure; wear open or closed |
| Belt | Cinch the coat at the waist | Tie for shape or leave loose |
| Epaulettes | Held gloves or insignia | Add a military edge |
| Storm flap | Water protection on the shoulder | Detail only, no styling needed |
| Raglan sleeves | Ease of movement | Fits over sweaters easily |
| Cuff straps | Keep water from running down the forearm | Tighten for a neat sleeve |
The V&A notes that metal D-rings on the belt were originally intended for hanging a sword, and Wikipedia says the common claim that they held hand grenades is a myth. They are now simply a recognisable detail.
How to Choose the Right Trench Coat
Gentleman’s Gazette advises that knee length is the most versatile, that a trench should have some extra room because it is designed to be worn over other layers, and that sleeves should reach the root of the thumb so shirt cuffs stay hidden. It names camel or khaki as the most traditional colours, with sand, stone, navy and black also popular.
| Choice | Recommendation | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Length | Knee length | Works with trousers, skirts and dresses |
| Fit | Room for a sweater, not boxy | Layer-friendly |
| Colour | Camel, stone, navy, black | Pairs with most wardrobes |
| Fabric | Cotton gabardine or blend | Water-resistant and structured |
| Lining | Detachable if you want warmth | Hard to add later |
Lighter colours show stains more quickly, so a darker coat is more practical for travel, as Gentleman’s Gazette notes.
Eight Trench Coat Outfit Ideas
| # | Outfit | Mood |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Trench, white shirt, straight jeans, loafers | Smart casual |
| 2 | Trench, turtleneck, tailored trousers, ankle boots | Office |
| 3 | Trench over a knit dress and knee-high boots | Fall dressy |
| 4 | Trench, hoodie, joggers, clean trainers | Relaxed streetwear |
| 5 | Trench over a slip dress with kitten heels | Evening |
| 6 | Trench over a suit with a plain tee | Modern formal |
| 7 | Trench, striped tee, wide jeans, ballet flats | Parisian casual |
| 8 | Trench, knit set, sneakers and tote | Travel day |
Trench Coat Styling for Work
A trench over a suit works, and Gentleman’s Gazette suggests trying coats on both with and without the suit jacket so there is enough room. Keep colours tonal and shoes polished. Our capsule wardrobe guide shows how a single coat can anchor many work outfits.
Trench Coat Styling for Weekends
Wear it open, with sleeves pushed up, over a tee or knit and jeans. Choose a belt knot or a loose tie behind the back for an easy line.
How to Style a Trench Coat for Men
Mens trench coat outfits depend on fit and length. Wear a knee-length coat over a suit, a crew-neck knit with chinos or a plain tee with jeans. A black or navy trench coat for men suits evenings, and a camel or stone coat suits daytime. Avoid very light coats if you travel often.
| Occasion | Outfit |
|---|---|
| Office | Navy trench, suit, white shirt, leather shoes |
| Weekend | Stone trench, knit, jeans, trainers |
| Evening | Black trench, dark trousers, polo neck, boots |
For wider menswear advice, see our men’s style guide for 2026.
Care and Layering Tips
Wikipedia notes that the trench coat is usually less warm than an overcoat, so layer a sweater, a thin down vest or a scarf underneath when temperatures drop. Hang the coat on a wide hanger, and spot clean small marks before they set. Check the care label before washing, and follow the coat’s instructions for dry cleaning or waterproofing.
Keep the belt loops and buttons secure, and check the cuffs and collar for wear at the end of each season.
