A classic, beige trench coat is a wardrobe staple that will never go out of style. Not only is it a quintessential component of a minimalist’s wardrobe, it’s also an item you can wear and hold onto forever. Thanks to its timeless details and neutral color palette, the best trench coats for women can do no wrong. They are hardworking outerwear pieces that can transition through the seasons with ease, working for a variety of climates and weather changes (impromptu rain showers, for one!).

The trench is a coat that has been relied on for decades. In 1879, Thomas Burberry invented gabardine, the weather-proofed, cotton textile the coats were infamously constructed from, making fashion history. Technically, he was outfitting the military, not the style-set at the time, but over the years, the coats have become a stylish staple, featured in many Hollywood films—such as Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s to Meryl Streep in Kramer vs. Kramer—and pop culture moments, eventually making the trench coat a bonafide fashion item.

Vogue’s Guide to Must-Have Trench Coats:

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The Heritage Classic

Burberry Kensington Heritage trench coat

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The Cropped Style

& Other Stories double breasted cotton crop trench jacket

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Since then, there have been many updated interpretations of the trench coat, making modern day options all the more interesting. The spring/summer 2025 runways were naturally stacked with the essential coat. Unsurprisingly, Burberry offered plenty—the draped and cropped shape left a strong impression in our minds. On the other hand, trenches that went straight to the floor at Aläia and Gucci, meant maxi lengths are definitely in (not just in the dress department), and were directly added to our editor wish lists.

Of course, you can always keep things classic with traditional styles—simple, belted options or button-front, Mac coats are all featured here—but brands such as Khaite and The Row have proven that experimentation with color, fabrics, and silhouettes can result in some seriously chic attire, as well. Below, find our ultimate edit of the best trench coats for women, featuring every style imaginable.

The Traditional Trenches

When it comes to a heritage coat, it’s hard to go wrong. These beige, double-breasted, belted, and collared styles are as timeless as ever and certifiable staple when it comes to outerwear. And there is one at every budget. These are the pieces you will cherish for years to come—from the investment buy at Burberry (it is the iconic label, after all) to wallet-friendly options at Gap and contemporary cool at Me + Em.

The Minimalist Macs

Because of their water-resistant fabrication, trench coats are a common style choice for rainy days, no matter the season. This selection of single-breasted silhouettes is similar to that of a Mac coat, streamlined with no extra bells and whistles—just a simple button-front and straight silhouette. A few of our favorites include lust-worthy options by Toteme and Cos, while Everlane makes an evergreen version that hits perfectly in the contemporary price point space.

The New Neutrals

While its most recognizably beige, camel, and khaki coloring which make the trench considered a very versatile garment, one in a different color feels just as timeless, when keeping to its signature silhouette. Navy, chocolate brown, gray, or military green are excellent places to start. These hues are still classic enough to be worn with everything you own, but are special enough to diversify your outerwear closet.

The Evening Edition

Don’t think of the trench coat as a daytime only style. Instead, grab something in a sumptuous fabric that can transition to evening, as well, once the sun sets. Simple silhouettes in satin or silk, such as these from Another Tomorrow and The Row, are made to be paired over everything from shirting and trousers during the day, to a slip dress and mules at night. Meanwhile, Heirlome’s draped interpretation can really steal the spotlight on its own.

The Suede Toppers

Nothing screams fall like suede and our must-buy of the season happens to be an overcoat made from this sumptuous fabric. Your best bet is to keep to options with a ‘70s feel, channeling icons of the rock and roll era, in shades of brown, whether that be a deep mocha color, rustier shade, or something on the sandy side. Style yours with modern basics—a cashmere crewneck, straight-leg jeans, and loafers work quite well here—rather than going the boho route underneath.

The Fashion-Forward Leathers

When made from leather, whether it be real or faux, the trench coat transforms from its heritage roots to downright, downtown cool. These ultra-luxe looks are loved by fashion editors and supermodels alike, with the right amount of edge to keep things from feeling too boring. Whether you want to go belted or Mac-style, your only decision is what to wear underneath. We recommend a white button down, midi skirt, and kitten heels for a street style-approved approach.

The Caped Crusaders

What were once trend-driven styles, reserved for the runway, caped silhouettes have now become stylish must-haves for today’s minimalist. Offering a refined take on the outerwear staple, these draped silhouettes add a dramatic focal point that feels entirely modern—from Ulla Johnson’s feminine, cropped stunner to a layered take from Burberry that can be layered effortlessly.

The Great Lengths

The surprise outerwear trend this season was the maxi-length trench coat. As seen on the runways of Gucci, Khaite, and Chloé—we quickly realized, more really is more! Thankfully, there are options to choose from, whether that be this classic yet oversized shape from Aläia, to Rohé’s double-breasted take that grazes the floor. In a variety of beige tones, these are definitely the ones to watch.

The Chopped and Cropped

By now, you’re familiar with the trench coat, but how about the trench… jacket? The key is to keep these shortened takes in the classic territory with double-breasted silhouettes and all the usual trimmings. They are positively perfect paired with high-waisted, trouser pants for work, or baggy jeans on the weekend to add a little polish.