The Fitting RoomThe best trench coats, from high street to heritage
A good trench works over everything from a T-shirt to a suit. We looked at four at very different prices and focused on what you actually get for the money: fabric, lining, fit and details.
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Kensington heritage trench
Typical price: around $2,500 and up
Made in England from Burberry's own cotton gabardine, which is tightly woven and weather resistant. A buy-once coat with a price to match.
Icon trench coat
Typical price: around $300
Classic double-breasted cut with a belt and storm flap, in water-resistant cotton. Often included in J.Crew sales.
Classic trench coat
Typical price: around $250
A slightly sharper cut that sits well over suiting. Petite and tall sizes are often available.
Classic trench coat
Typical price: around $150
The look of a classic trench for much less. The fabric is lighter and less water resistant, so it suits spring and autumn more than rain.
How to choose
Fabric first
Tightly woven cotton gabardine resists rain best. Lighter blends are cheaper but less weatherproof.
Size for layers
Try it on over a jumper or blazer. A trench should close comfortably over the layers you will actually wear.
Mind the length
Knee length is the most versatile. Shorter styles suit petite frames, and longer ones look dramatic with flat shoes.
Prices change often and vary by retailer, size and colour. Always check the final price on the retailer's site. Comparing it is exactly what The Fitting Room is being built to do for you.
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