Maybe it’s the thought of retiring our swimsuits (we can’t say we’re that sad to them go), but we’re truly craving fall. With thoughts of the impending chill come daydreams of lightweight jackets that won’t bulk up once layered over our favorite fall looks. Enter the perfectly ageless, weather-resistant fashion staple known as the trench coat.
This fall, we’re obsessed with finding a trench that boasts a little something special. Not too detective-esque, not too manly—just an affordable piece with fun details. Something that will do for us what the trench did for Audrey Hepburn in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.” With an eye toward that special twist, we combed online shops and found quite the eclectic lineup. (Nordstrom offered an impressive selection that had us aflutter.)
So, ladies, pick your poison. Will it be a chic trench that you can pair with a white button-down shirt and tailored pants for a day at the office—or a punchy version that you can toss on over skinny jeans and riding boots for the weekend? That’s the great thing about trench coats—they’re effortlessly chic and oh-so-versatile.
Bonus: Once the days turn too cold, you can resist the urge to banish your favorite jacket into forced hibernation. Come March, you’ll be putting that trench back into rotation faster than you can say “springtime allergies.” And with the most expensive of the group coming in at just under $150, you won’t experience the sticker shock that you’re sure to find with the likes of the coveted Burberry trench.
1. Animal Appeal: If we know one thing, it’s that every girl needs some animal print in her closet. This leopard print trench from Michael Kors has us purring. Brown Leopard Print Belted Trench Coat, MICHAEL Michael Kors, $149, bluefly.com.
2. In the Pink: We love the classic lines and fit of this trench, but we absolutely adore its pink berry hue. Pink not your thing? This piece also comes in pumpkin and currant—colors that are sure to put a little pep in your step on wet, dreary days. Belted Trench Coat, Spiegel, $69, spiegel.com.
3. Pretty in Plaid: This menswear-inspired plaid trench is anything but masculine—especially when you catch a glimpse of the giant bow that finishes the belt in the back. Too cute! Glen Plaid Trench, Latte by Coffee Shop, $128, nordstrom.com.
4. Short Story: The standard, bone-colored trench gets an instant update with short sleeves, which make this jacket a perfect summer-to-fall transitional piece. Short Sleeve Trench, AK Anne Klein, $98, nordstrom.com.
5. Girl Talk: We love a good dose of feminine detail. Make it a double dose of ruffled rows—like the ones that line the hem of this double-breasted trench—and we’re in heaven. Ruffle Hem Trench, Luii, $64.90, nordstrom.com.
