How to Style a Trench Coat: 6 Easy Steps

A trench coat looks simple, but it is easy to get wrong. Too short, too tight or worn with the wrong shoes and it looks plain. In this guide we show you how to style a trench coat step by step, using real photos from women in the US and the UK. Each photo has numbered labels so you can see exactly what makes the look work.

Quick answer: Pick a trench that ends below the knee, wear it open over a simple top, pair it with straight or wide leg jeans or trousers, and finish with sneakers, loafers or flats. For cold days, add a knit under it.

Step 1: Pick a Classic Trench That Ends Below the Knee

1Simple striped top under it2Coat ends below the knee3Wide trousers make a long line

Start with a beige or camel trench that ends just below your knee. This length works on almost everyone and looks good with jeans, trousers and skirts. A plain or striped top under it keeps the look clean, and wide trousers make your legs look longer.

Step 2: Wear It Open Over a Tee and Straight Jeans

1Leave it open over a striped tee2Straight jeans for easy weekends3White sneakers keep it casual

For a casual day, leave the trench open. An open coat shows your top and looks more relaxed. A striped tee, straight blue jeans and white sneakers is the easiest trench coat outfit you can copy.

Step 3: Try a Brown Suede Trench for Fall and Winter

1Brown suede looks warm and rich2Light jeans with a dark coat3Suede shoes match the coat

Beige is not your only choice. A brown or suede trench looks warmer and works well from October to February. Pair it with light blue jeans so the coat stands out, and pick shoes or a bag in a similar brown.

Step 4: Pair It With Wide Leg Jeans and Sneakers

1Soft knit under the trench2Wide leg jeans feel relaxed3Sneakers for city walks

Wide leg jeans and a long trench are a great match. The long coat balances the wide jeans, so the outfit looks put together, not baggy. Add a thin knit under the coat and sneakers for a cool city look.

Step 5: Go Light and Tonal With a Cream Knit

1A cap for weekend errands2Cream cable knit under a light coat3Shoes match the cap color

A light grey or white trench with a cream sweater looks soft and fresh. This is called a tonal look, where your top and coat are in similar light shades. Add one color, like a burgundy cap and matching shoes, so it does not look flat.

Step 6: Wear a Short Trench With a Mini Skirt

1Red beret adds a pop of color2Short trench with a plaid skirt3White socks with red shoes

A short trench that ends at the hip looks best with skirts and dresses. It shows the skirt instead of hiding it. A plaid mini skirt, a red beret and socks with Mary Jane shoes give you a cute Paris style look for fall.

Common Trench Coat Mistakes to Avoid

• Buying it too tight. You should be able to wear a sweater under it.
• Wearing it buttoned all the way with a belt every time. Open or loosely tied looks easier.
• Picking a length that hits the widest part of your calf.
• Wearing heavy chunky shoes with a light spring trench.

FAQs

Can you wear a trench coat in winter?

Yes. Wear a chunky knit or a thin puffer vest under it and add a scarf. For very cold days, switch to a wool coat.

What shoes go with a trench coat?

White sneakers, loafers, ankle boots and ballet flats all work. Knee high boots look great with a skirt.

Should you belt a trench coat?

You can, but you do not have to. Tie the belt loosely at the back or wear the coat open for a relaxed look.

What color trench coat is most versatile?

Beige or camel goes with almost everything. Brown and black are good second options.

Now You Know How to Style a Trench Coat

Start with the right length, wear it open over a simple top, and pick jeans or a skirt with easy shoes. Try one step at a time and you will have a trench coat outfit for every day of the season.

More ideas: real trench coat outfits, how to style wide leg jeans in winter and loafers outfits.