How to Style a Classic: The Trench Coat

There's something deliciously subversive about taking the trench's military origins and transplanting them into the corporate arena. Pair a honey-colored trench with pressed wool pants and a crisp white button-down, letting the coat's belt hang untied like a rebellion against its own heritage. Ground the look with square-toe loafers — they're less expected than pumps and better suited for outrunning deadlines. The result is a modern power broker, with just enough disorder to keep them guessing.

For weekend wandering, layer your trench over a chunky turtleneck and high-waisted jeans. The key here is to choose denim with a straight or wide leg — anything too skinny creates an unwanted private investigator effect. Add a cap, sunglasses and a sweatshirt nonchalantly draped over the shoulders, and suddenly you're not just running errands but embodying the main character's energy.

Here's where we truly depart from the trench's utilitarian roots. Throw it over a silk slip dress, letting the hem peek out like a sartorial secret. Add chunky track-sole boots — the kind that would make both fashion editors and club kids nod in approval. The contrast between the dress's fluidity and the coat's structure creates the kind of tension that makes great outfits, and better conversations.

When investing in a trench, consider it a long-term relationship rather than a seasonal fling. The classic Burberry remains the Rolls-Royce of raincoats, but don't overlook contemporary interpretations.