How to Style a Trench Coat (During all Seasons)

A lightweight coat is a year-round staple, whether you’re dressing for fall, spring, or transitional seasons. While there are lots of jacket options out there, I’ve really been loving the look a trench coat provides — they’re timeless, sophisticated, and they go with everything.

I have shared several trench coat outfits in the past, but this particular coat of mine has consistently been a top-seller. If you’re on the fence about splurging on a trench, the good news is that there are tons of options out there (at various price points.)

There are a lot of different ways you can style a trench coat — and while that’s good, it can also make the process a bit more intimidating. Sometimes having too many options can make you feel a bit stuck or uninspired.

If you’re trying to figure out how to style a trench coat but aren’t sure where to start, this post is for you! Below, I’m sharing a handful of outfit ideas, all which would work for a variety of seasons and occasions.

How to Style a Trench Coat

Trench Coat and Shorts

You might not think of pairing your denim shorts with a trench coat, but the combo actually makes for the perfect transitional weather outfit. I love that this look feels a bit unexpected — the length of the coat paired with shorts adds a lot of visual interest and dimension. You could also swap them out for jeans and taller boots if you’re dressing for a cooler climate.

Keep things simple up top with a white button-down shirt (go with something oversized for a chic vibe.) For shoes, anything goes, but I think western-style boots are so much fun!

Trench Coat and Heels

This outfit is about as timeless as it gets, and it’s ideal for casual meetings, city walking, or even for a post-work happy hour. It’s comfortable yet leaves you looking put-together. Plus, you can probably create this outfit with pieces you already have in your closet.

Start with a basic tank or t-shirt (try to source one that’s easy to tuck in), add a blazer, then add a trench coat as the final layer. These Chanel-style sling-backs add a feminine feel and make this look even more elevated.

p.s. If you’re dressing during a warmer season, ditch the blazer and just wear a tank top or t-shirt underneath.

Trench Coat and Loafers

One underrated shoe selection that’s ideal for transitional weather? A chunky pair of loafers. These kicks have a preppy feel and polished look that makes them the ideal complement to a trench coat. Style them with a pair of trousers and a lightweight sweater for a practical and easy-to-throw-on outfit.

Don’t forget that incorporating accessories, like a bold belt and a cute handbag can really take things up a notch. This suede tote is a recent favorite of mine!

Trench Coat and Athleisure

While there are few things I love more than getting dressed up, some days just call for a laid-back look. Luckily, athleisure has been very much in (thanks to an uptick in WFH culture.) Whether you’re spending a casual weekend in your neighborhood or you have to venture out in rainy weather, this outfit is a fool-proof choice.

Keep comfy with buttery soft leggings on the bottom and then add an oversized t-shirt on top. Finish the look by accessorizing with a baseball cap, a tote bag, and a sweatshirt tied around your shoulders.

Trench Coat and Trousers

Looking for an equally as cozy yet more polished outfit? Opt for trousers instead of leggings, which offer a clean and streamlined look without sacrificing comfort.

Trousers are a good bottom option for work occasions, but also for everyday life. They’d look so chic to wear to dinner or to a coffee meet up. You can dress them up a bit with a blouse or sweater on top, otherwise, go with a t-shirt for a more relaxed result.

Trench Coat and a Sweatsuit

I don’t know about you but when I’m heading to the airport, a top priority is that I’m wearing something ultra-comfy. The last thing I want is to feel restricted while on an airplane, and that’s where a sweatsuit comes into play.

The exact set I’m wearing is unfortunately sold out, but I do love all the picks from Frank & Eileen and Varley — even Amazon has some good options. You could also wear plain black leggings and a crewneck sweater if you don’t want to be so matchy-matchy.

Adding a trench coat as your final layer is a practical way to ensure you stay warm enough while venturing through the airport and during your flight. Plus, planes always seem to be blasting the air conditioning, so it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Trench Coat and Sneakers

Need to bundle up? Trench coats are great to wear on top of chunky layers since they have a looser and more giving fit.

Wear a tank and cardigan and then seal the warmth in with an oversized blanket scarf. If you’re going with mostly neutrals, add a pop of color with your sneakers (I’ve adored this pair as we’ve headed into the fall season). Finish off by throwing on a hat or a headband, depending on the occasion/where you’re headed.

I hope this post helped you figure out how to style a trench coat. Have more outfit ideas? Let me know what they are in the comment section below.