Trench coats are an enduring classic when it comes to outerwear, and continue to evolve throughout each fashion season to reflect what's most on trend at that moment. They are a prized piece of apparel for any women's wardrobe for many reasons, first and foremost being their unique versatility that is both functional and fashionable. No matter what the weather is in your corner of the world, a trench can keep you dry, keep you warm in the cool spring air, or protect you from the harsh winter elements. Some women even prefer to wear it as their entire outfit! Many famous French mademoiselles have been known to take to the streets in nothing but a trench (tied of course), a gorgeous pair of Louboutin heels, and a dazzling smile. This just goes to show that a trench is revered not only for its highly durable construction that protects the beautiful outfit underneath, but indeed is so classic that it's presence is enough to pass for simple chic on its own. Truly a wardrobe staple for both the fashionista as well as the everyday woman looking to add some utility to her closet. Better than a nylon windbreaker on every level, every designer worth their beans agrees that there is not a more important coat to own. Now that you've decided to take the step and buy yourself a trench, it's important that you know what features are available in order to find the perfect fit, physically and for your lifestyle.
If you want to make an investment, the most obvious place to start is with the iconic British luxury brand, Burberry. Established in 1856, Thomas Burberry himself was the inventor of the gabardine fabric that most traditional trenches are fashioned from. Hardwearing, breathable but water-resistant, this fabric revolutionized outerwear. Since then, Burberry has continued to focus on trench coats that define classic while remaining both modern and stylish. Their collection for the upcoming winter season continues that tradition, with a collection of trenches and clothing that evoke the iconic luxury of the British fashion house while pushing the boundaries of fashion. Featuring cropped and boxy silhouettes along with leaner cut pieces, and references to the pea coat and shearling jackets that reflect the navy heritage of the Fair Isle, the trenches offered come in a spectrum of shapes, colors, and fabrics. Not only are there modern riffs on the khaki classic, but also navy, purple tartan, and rich burgundy leather. For the serious spender this is a trench worth every penny.
A more rugged American version of the trench can be found at Eddie Bauer, an outdoors focused retailer that offers heritage goods with a touch of tailoring. Designed to be the best outerwear available, the trenches here are all-weather staples sure to get you through the worst of the weather. With varied lengths that range from the hip down to the ankle and fully-lined with a double nylon shell, you'd have to be trying pretty hard to get wet wearing this coat. Feminine princess seams keep your silhouette from looking bulky and a removable hood is a feature that will surely come in handy. The addition of WeatherEdge seam sealant means that you're doubly protected. Colors range from black to silver for a sedate sophistication to a lush grass green for those dreary winter days when you just want to add a jolt of color to the world. Choose from heavier down filled trench coats for colder months, or go for a lighter three season staple.
Not convinced and want to comparison shop? You'll have no problem finding something on Overstock.com, an online source for quality merchandise at deeply discounted prices. Stocking brands such as Miss Sixty, DKNY, Tommy Hilfiger, MICHAEL by Michael Kors, Burberry, London Fog, Via Spiga, Anne Klein, Izod and more, there's a coat for every price range and a fashion fix for every woman. Customer reviews make it easy to see which ones provide the most satisfaction and highest quality and you can even see the trench most often purchased and why. Compare the money you'll save on the higher end brands and only pay $2.95 for shipping no matter how much you order! Whether you decide to go with the Rothschild red wool-blend twirl trench with the sash, Tommy Hilfiger's sailor yellow classic double-breasted trench, or the intriguingly constructed "pucker" trench by Samuel Dong, there are both scores and savings to be had. Depending on the trench of your dreams, anywhere from 5 to 60 percent!