Team Trench

Words: Mary-Jane, Senior Copywriter

People of the jury, here’s my case for the trench.

First of all, it’s the Penguin Classic of the coat world. There’s literally no expiry date on this thing. Trenches were as much of a big deal in the 80s as they are today, only now you don’t have to accessorise one with a brick phone. Translation: you’ll wear it again and again.

Secondly, the trench is your pal when the weather is experiencing a personality disorder. September showers? No problem. Sudden burst of sunshine? You won’t overheat in this lightweight in-betweener. This possibly explains the UK’s ongoing love affair with the trench.

Finally, the trench has presence. Layer it over any outfit, and this longline, belted style has the capacity to make you feel like a member of the Fashion Week FROW, or a mysterious figure in a thriller. You put one on and feel more… together. The trench is a coat that gets sh*t done.

But enough from me, here are four flawless options to start you on your trench journey.

The Modern Classic

SNDYs stylish cream trench coat is a great mix of the old and new, taking elements of the vintage trench but bringing it bang up to date with slouchy shoulder tabs, wide lapels and contrasting button detail. I’d wear this over anything from tailored trousers to a bike-shorts-and-sweater combo. Ideal for work, the pub or a casual weekend.

The Minimal LBT

The little black trench, at your service. Great for minimalists, this solid-coloured trench coat will go with virtually anything, and comes in a simple double-breasted design with a tie belt. I’d continue this low-key look with some black slim-fit jeans and a crisp white tee, plus some patent ankle boots and a pair of gold hoops.

The Smart-Casual Khaki

I love a pop of khaki in autumn, and this double-breasted trench coat in green has real dress-up-or-down versatility. In the day, you can layer it over some classic blue jeans and a comfy overshirt or logo tee. For evening plans, try pairing it with some light-coloured tailored trousers and tan heels – this colour works brilliantly with cream and mocha shades.

The Elegant Longline

For when you want to feel a bit fancy. This longline trench is really crisp, with thoughtful details like tortoiseshell buttons and shoulder tabs that give it an expensive-looking finish. Layer it over your favourite LBD or workwear separates. You can also create some contrast by throwing this coat over your nicest trackies. A trench-and-plush-hoodie combo equals the perfect polished streetwear look.

Team Biker

Words: Madison, Junior Copywriter

When shopping for clothes, I’m on the lookout for problem-solver pieces that add tangible value to my wardrobe.

Often, they’re round-the-clock classics. Think the Little Black Dress you can repurpose for a million events, or that one pair of jeans that you can always rely on come rain or shine.

On other occasions, I’ll buy with the current season in mind, snapping up items that are perfectly suited for the months ahead. Come autumn, for example, I need a fuss-free and versatile jacket that I can throw over both my everyday and dressier outfits.

Enter: the biker.

Yep, I’m making the case for this rock-n-roll layer with serious main character energy. Don’t be intimidated, though – it’s genuinely a great piece for layering and can quickly glam up the staples in your wardrobe.

Add a biker to your usual jeans-and-a-tee combo to give the look a cool girl vibe, for example, or slip it over a printed maxi dress for a dinner date or night out.

You could even wear one over a blouse and structured trousers if you’re heading to the office or after-work drinks.

I’ve spotlighted a few of my faves below.

The Classic Biker

Hunting for the ultimate faux leather biker jacket? Stop your search! This stylish option comes in a wear-anywhere black colour and classic shape, and it also has handy zip-up pockets at the front. The possibilities are truly endless with this one, and you could layer it over anything from a dress to a graphic tee or jumpsuit. It’s smart enough for a party or cocktail night, but it’s comfy enough to become your new everyday favourite, too.

The Monday-to-Sunday

While you can’t go wrong with a black biker jacket, it’s always fun to inject some colour into your autumn-to-winter wardrobe. I love this pastel green piece – it looks gorgeous with a simple vest top and light wash denim. This would be a great choice for everyday dressing, and those side pockets mean you can easily stash your stuff when you’re out and about.

The Neutral-To-Know

That’s right, it’s also available in this gorgeous shade of stone. Guaranteed to complement just about anything in your wardrobe, this neutral-toned jacket will work in every season, too. I’d throw it over a fitted knit and leather-look skinnies for a put-together look this autumn.

The Rule-Breaker

A frilled front and ruffle details make this black biker really stand out from the crowd, and it’s the ideal pick if you’re looking for something a little bit different. This one sits at the hips (which is a really flattering fit for apple shapes) and comes in a slightly textured faux leather fabric. Style with a ribbed dress and knee-high boots for bar trips and meals out.