In the fickle, restless world of fashion, it’s hard to know whether you’re coming or going half the time. Trends are cyclical; as soon as we’ve donated our flares to charity shops, certain they’re off-trend is terminal, the catwalk seems to be full of them. The moment we’ve squeezed, kicking and screaming, into the skinniest trousers, we’re told baggy is back in business. Black is the new black is the new blue isn’t the new navy and so on, until we’re all in a muddle and too scared to leave the house for fear of getting things wrong.
There is one constant though, one consistent that we can all always rely on, and that is the trench coat. So, with that in mind, here are 5 IDEAL reasons to make one your first wardrobe addition of 2018.
A TIMELESS CLASSIC
Every year, each season and without fail, the trench coat is in fashion, and here’s why; it’s utterly timeless. From Ingrid Bergman, through to Audrey Hepburn and right up to the modern day icon Meghan Markle, all have worn the indispensable item publicly and proudly. All have equally been associated with buzzwords like grace, poise, elegance and sophistication. Coincidence? We think not.
The coat is constantly being reimagined, rehashed and reshaped, meaning it’s modern while retaining its traditional charm.
IT SUITS EVERYONE
The trench coat is a versatile, inclusive piece. It fits all shapes and sizes, covers all manner of sins and accentuates all the best bits in equal measure. Part of the magic is in the midriff belt, which can be worn tightly or loosely depending on occasion and body shape. This effortlessly chic item is everyone’s best friend.
IT PAIRS WITH ANYTHING
It’s incredibly versatilite owing to occasion and level of formality, too. You can dress the coat up or down with little embellishment or thought, simply by adjusting the way you wear the belt, the length or the sleeve. In that sense, it’s a truly multipurpose item, to be accentuated with accessories. Neutral, unassuming colours like beiges and greys generally remain the safest best, but statement pieces certainly aren’t frowned upon either. Whether you’re running some errands, going down to the pub or having a night out on the town, the trench coat is capable of pulling any outfit together. Is there anything the trench coat can’t do?
APPROPRIATE FOR ANY SEASON
The trench coat is truly transeasonal, with thicker styles gracing the winter catwalks and thinner, more fluid numbers popular in the warmer seasons. Even sleeveless numbers had a moment in the sun last summer. Come rain, sunshine or snow – the versatility of the trench coat is like no other.
PLAY DRESS UP
Finally, and highlighting the trench coat’s adaptability, is the fun – sometimes flirty – ways it can be used in the dressing up box. If you want to play detective, simply accessorise with a hat and magnifying glass. Or, surprise your partner by wearing nothing but lingerie underneath, in true romcom style!
