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The 16 Best Trench Coats to Buy for Fall

Photo-Illustration: by The Cut; Photos: Getty Images, Retailers, Hanna Flanagan

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Fall is the time of year when you think about updating your wardrobe with seasonal transition pieces, and a good trench should be the first thing on your list. Trench coats are the perfect staple for when the temperature begins to drop and the weather becomes unpredictable.

When you imagine a classic trench coat, you probably think all-weather, often khaki-colored, double-breasted design with structured lapels, and a waist-cinching belt. Am I right? Maybe designers like Burberry come to mind as well since the label has helped popularize the look since its inception. But your favorite cool-girl brands and affordable retailers — including COS, Everlane, the Frankie Shop, Uniqlo, and Mango — also have stylish trench coats for every aesthetic and occasion.

So this season, shop for your favorite camel coats and wintertime puffers, but don’t forget to add a transitional trench (or two) to your cart as well. Whether you’re looking for a sleek style to pair with your everyday looks, something durable to tackle the changing weather, or a style that’s ideal for layering, these are the 16 best trench coats the internet has to offer.

So, you’re looking for the best trench coats?

The best classic trench coats
The best textured trench coats
The best fashion-forward trench coats

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The Best Classic Trench Coats

A classic trench coat is conservative and timeless, just like the selections below. You’ll find investment pieces from Burberry (the brand behind the original trench) in addition to all-weather trenches from beloved brands that are a bit more accessible in terms of price point, including Mango and Uniqlo.

Material: 100 percent cotton | Size: XXS-4XL | Colors: Beige

It’s under $150, water-repellent, and classic in every sense of the word. What more could you ask for in a fall trench coat?

Material: 96 percent cotton and 4 percent PU | Size: 0-14 | Colors: Tan

Say hello to a classic trench that’s both functional and flattering. Not only does it feature a water-resistant coating to protect against the elements, but its lightweight fabric creates a feminine drape, and it has a thick belt that helps cinch the waist.

Material: 100 percent cotton | Size: XXS-XXL | Colors: Natural, olive, black

At under $100, this Uniqlo trench is a total steal. The no-frills design is sleek and versatile. Plus, the relaxed fit makes it great for layering.

Material: 100 percent organic cotton | Size: 0-16 | Colors: Camel, khaki, navy

Sézane is one of my go-to brands for mid-priced wardrobe essentials that are tailored to perfection and feel more expensive than they actually are. This trench coat is no exception. The no-frills design features large lapels, button ties on the shoulders and cuffs, and a removable tie waist belt. It’s available in this camel color and a khaki green hue.

Material: 100 percent cotton | Size: 0-16 | Colors: Honey, black, coal blue

If you’re looking to invest in a forever staple — a sophisticated piece that you can wear year-round — there’s nothing quite like a Burberry trench. The famous style features shower-resistant gabardine as well as the brand’s iconic checked lining.

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The Best Textured Trench Coats

Even though you might want to wear a more traditional all-weather trench on days when it’s raining outside, why not break out some textured trenches when the skies are clear? You can switch up your look without having to worry about weather damage.

Size: XXS-XL | Colors: Ivory

A monochromatic patchwork pattern that will turn heads and the silhouette of a classic trench coat — all for under $200.

Material: 100 percent polyester | Size: EU 32-44 | Colors: Brown

Chocolate brown is the color of the season, and this faux-leather trench is the perfect way to incorporate it into your wardrobe. The slightly distressed material gives it a vintage look, while classic details like the lapel neckline, double-breasted button design, and adjustable belt makes it super-functional.

Material: 100 percent lamb leather | Size: XXS-XL | Colors: Black, garnet

This Mackage beauty is at the top of fashion and beauty writer Asia Milia Ware’s holiday wish list. Crafted from 100 percent lamb leather, the impeccably tailored, double-breasted trench features a straight-fit silhouette, detachable button collar, wide-notch lapel, removable belt, and welt pockets.

Material: 70 percent organic cotton, 30 percent cotton; 100 percent organic cotton | Size: UK 14-22 | Colors: Multi-check

Can’t decide between a classic trench and a fashion-forward option? Well, with this reversible coat by Aligne, you don’t have to. The beige waxed side is just as chic as the heritage check side. Plus, it features cord details on the collar and cuffs.

Material: 100 percent cotton | Size: S-XXL | Colors: Beige

Another great choice if you’re into the corduroy collar. This A.P.C. coat has concealed buttons and extra-long sleeves that create a cool, casual look.

Material: 100 percent polyurethane | Size: One size | Colors: Black

With peaked lapels, padded shoulders, and a boxy silhouette, this maxi-length trench is the ultimate outfit-maker (you definitely won’t want to drop it off at coat check).

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The Best Fashion-Forward Trench Coats

If you love the idea of a trench but want something a little less classic (and a little more trendy), scroll on to shop my selection of coats that have the flair you’re looking for. Even though some of them will not keep you dry or protect you from the elements, all five styles are sure to make a fashion statement.

Material: 80 percent cotton, 20 percent polyamide | Size: XXS-L | Colors: Beige/Khaki

The detachable khaki inner lapel gives this double-breasted coat a cool layered effect — and makes it feel more unique than other trenches on the market. Design features include shoulder epaulets, welt pockets, and a buckled belt.

Size: XS-L | Colors: Tan, navy

While we love an oversize trench coat that gives off Matrix vibes, there is certainly a time and place for outerwear that has a more defined shape. This water- and wind-resistant piece from Norba is exactly that, thanks to the cinched waist and slight A-line cut. It features a zip-off hood, side pockets, and a high neckline that’s both warm and stylish.

Material: 100 percent cotton | Size: XS-L | Colors: Black, khaki, beige

This cropped version of the classic trench coat is another favorite of Milia Ware’s. It has an oversize fit and thick cuffs that make it ideal for layering over a sweater or hoodie.

Material: 75 percent cotton, 25 percent polyester | Size: 2-10 | Colors: Khaki

Say hello to one of my most-worn pieces of fall 2023 thus far — sure, it’s an investment, but I’ve definitely gotten my money’s worth! This double-breasted trench features a roomy, oversize fit and exaggerated proportions, so it makes a statement no matter what you wear underneath. The stiff material — in addition to details like double-wrap belted cuffs and monogram-logo lining — feels so luxurious. My only complaint? No pockets.

Material: 100 percent organic cotton | Size: XXS-XXL | Colors: Beech, black, cornstalk

Available in three neutral colors and a wide range of sizes, this flattering, slim-fit trench is beloved by market editor Morgan Evans. It’s fully lined and made from 100 percent organic cotton that’s nice and stiff (because no one wants a trench coat with a flimsy belt).

The 16 Best Trench Coats to Buy for Fall