Winter is officially here. It’s the season of hot cups of chocolate, hearty soups, fuzzy bed socks and cosy knits. As we reluctantly pack away our sun dresses and daisy dukes, the trends from the big fashion capitals, New York, London and Milan are starting to filter onto Australian shores and into our wardrobes. One trend we’re not surprised to see is the timeless trench coat. Made popular thanks to Burberry’s iconic collection, the classic outfit topper has garnered a solid fan base over the last few decades. It has graced the backs of royalty, A-listers and the fashion world’s movers and shakers, and this year the trench is back, and is bigger than ever.
The traditional trench we have all grown to love, double breasted with a belted waist, will never get old. But this winter has seen the classic outerwear undergo a makeover. It’s stripped back and more lax. This season, it’s all about relaxed tailoring, and the trench fits this brief. Streamlined, versatile and chic, even the boys have caught on to the trend. Think David Beckham (and his sons!) and Harry Styles.
The trench coat is possibly one of the easiest trends to style. Because it’s already a statement in itself, it calls for little to no accessorising. Forget the bells and whistles, keep it minimal and simple, à la Julianne Hough. Queen of the dance floor, Julian nails the effortless, I woke up like this look. This ensemble is the prime example of less is more, with the low key accessories allowing her coat to take centre stage. Here Julianne opts for what we like to call, the New Age Trench. With over the knee hems and light fabrics, this season’s must-have outfit topper still resembles its ancestors. But in place of the double breasted buttons and belt which have become just as iconic as the trench itself, are waterfall lapels and a waist tie that gives more shape to the silhouette. Picking a colour palette is probably the toughest part, but as Julianne shows, an outfit in tonal whites and greys says smart and clean. For a more casual off-duty model look, trade in the tailored trousers for a pair of boyfriend jeans or distressed denim.
Tip:
They come in every colour imaginable, but if you’re only going to invest in one trench this season, go neutral. Whether it be beige, tan or warm greys, a trench in a neutral shade will serve any outfit well for years to come. Earthy tones will take anything you throw at them which means more bang for your buck and fewer floordrobes in the morning.
It’s the piece that just keeps on giving. With its light fabric, it’s the ideal layering piece that will carry you into the warmer months too. Take note from Olivia Palermo and throw on your trench over a shirt dress for a chic look fit for the fashionable streets of New York. The barely visible hem of the dress underneath makes for a flirty, fun outfit that will have you stopping traffic (and hearts!). To update your trench, throw on some metallic finishes- necklace, shoes, clutches. Both Julianne and Olivia have chosen to accessorise with metallic pieces, taking their outfits from zero to hero.
Tip:
If there’s one thing winter wardrobes are guilty of, it’s their lacklustre colour palette. But just because it’s dark and gloomy outside, it doesn’t mean your #OOTD has to follow suit. For those more comfortable with a neutral palette, there are plenty of ways to make your wintertime wardrobe exciting. Layering neutrals and statement pieces like a wide-brimmed, felt hat or pastel sweater is a great way to crank up the personality of your outfits this season.
Whether you opt for the classic trench or a more modern take on the iconic piece, have fun with your look. Use your trench as the starting point. Decide what style and shade tickles your fancy, and build your outfit from there. Existing wardrobe basics like your trusty white tee or black skinnies are a great place to start.
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