What is a trench coat, what to wear with this basic item for men and women

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In a woman's wardrobe, as well as in a man's, there are always so-called "basic" items that were popular 50 years ago, are in demand today and will probably remain relevant even in a few decades. A classic double-breasted trench coat is a striking example of such items, because time simply has no power over a stylish coat model. Every year, designers offer a large number of options for its execution, which can become the highlight of any wardrobe. By combining a trench coat with other clothes, both women and men can create a lot of fashionable images in a variety of styles.

What is it

A translation of the term from English will help you find out what a trench coat is. The combination of the foreign words trench and coat in Russian corresponds to the concept of "trench coat". The product got its name thanks to the British soldiers for whom it was originally created. The model appeared thanks to the magnate Thomas Burberry, who was engaged in the development of clothing for the military. During the war, the raincoat was used to protect against rain and wind. After the end of hostilities, it migrated to the wardrobes of civilians - the thing turned out to be so practical and comfortable that men did not want to part with it.

Classic trench coats appeared in women's wardrobes thanks to Coco Chanel, who always had revolutionary views on fashion. Without thinking twice, the famous madam decided that such a comfortable and beautiful thing should be worn not only by men. Women liked this idea very much, they began to use trench coats with pleasure, combining them with other wardrobe items.

A modern trench coat is a coat with a belt, complemented by cuffs, shoulder straps, patch pockets and a turn-down collar. It differs from a coat in that it is made of lighter material, is double-breasted, and from a French coat in that it lacks numerous pockets and a straight, soft collar.

The model is rightfully considered a cult model: it is practical, versatile, and waterproof. Its unconditional advantages are ideal compatibility and an incredibly stylish appearance that combines soft femininity and boldness, elegance and deliberate carelessness.

The fashionable product is often used for photo shoots. Retro looks in trench coats are especially popular. Classic and street styles, casual and sport-chic are also in demand.

Fashionable modifications

The modern fashionable trench coat looks much more feminine than a hundred years ago. The current length is slightly above the knee line. Black, gray and beige colors are classic in their pure form, although today you can find items of various shades. Some of them are decorated with prints - animalistic, geometric, floral. The fashion trend of the new season has become asymmetrical models, as well as oversized trench coats, decorated with appliques, stripes - such elements make the image brighter, more unique, more colorful.

Today, at the peak of popularity are models of trench coats with transformable sleeves that can be rolled up, tied or secured with a button. Such a product looks elegant with high gloves in the same color as the clothes. In the new season, designers have suggested wearing a short trench coat, which will be in demand among female drivers and those who prefer an active lifestyle.

Each season has its own characteristics of this waterproof clothing. In spring and autumn, a leather trench coat will be a relevant solution, which is considered practical and can last for more than one season. Insulated options with a lining are suitable for winter. For summer, you can choose models made of lightweight fabrics that will not be hot, but at the same time they will protect in rainy and windy weather.

Many designers suggest using the product not only as outerwear, but also wearing a trench coat instead of a dress. However, in order not to look ridiculous, you need to choose the right shoes and accessories for your outfit. Neat models of shoes, boots or flat or wedge shoes will perfectly suit the image. Accessories in this case should not be too provocative. According to fashion experts, you should definitely pay attention to the collarless trench coat. It cannot be called classic, but the model looks very stylish and attractive.

Fitted models with a belt deserve special attention - all girls can wear such a coat, regardless of their body type.

Asymmetry
Without collar
Transformable sleeve
Oversized
With a belt
Shortened model

Materials of manufacture

Initially, the creator of the trench coat used gabardine for its sewing, which was distinguished by its softness and elasticity. Additionally, the fabric was treated with impregnation, which gave it water-repellent properties and made it denser. This solution was relevant for the military, who had to serve in any weather.

Over time, fashion designers turned their attention to other textures and expanded the range of fabrics used. Demi-season trench coats are most often sewn from synthetic materials. Their advantages include low cost, practicality (lightweight, do not wrinkle, wash well and dry quickly), durability.

Denim, leather, and wool are also popular. Denim will reliably protect you from the cold autumn wind, and wool will keep you warm in the winter frosts. But both of these materials quickly get wet. To make the item more practical, the fabric is treated with a special impregnation that makes it resistant to moisture. As an alternative, you can choose a leather model that is not afraid of high humidity.

Trench coats with embossed reptile patterns and matte leather items are especially popular.

In the warm season, lightweight materials are relevant. Therefore, famous designers sew summer trench coats from cotton, silk, viscose, lace and transparent plastic. Fabrics such as silk and cotton are breathable, hygienic, and wear-resistant. But they have a drawback - they require special care. And if weightless fabrics will protect the fashionista from the evening chill, then vinyl or plastic models will protect from a sudden summer downpour.

Imitation lace
Matte leather
Transparent plastic
Viscose
Denim
Cotton
Silk

Popular colors

It is believed that a classic trench coat should be made exclusively in beige tones. This universal shade can be combined with things of any style and color. For the office, a combination of a camel trench coat with a classic skirt and pumps will be relevant. An ensemble with a dress will be appropriate not only for a business meeting, but also for a formal event. When creating a casual look, it is better to choose jeans for such a trench coat.

For those who don't like to wear beige, designers offer a wide range of colors:

  1. Black trench coats can be used in almost any look. But it is worth remembering that with each shade the product will look different: if in combination with brown you get a dark, unremarkable look, then blue things will help to refresh it.
  2. Brown, like black, should be combined exclusively with light-colored wardrobe items.
  3. Shades of gray are also considered classic, therefore, it is not difficult to choose a "neighbor" for them. Such a trench coat will look stylish with black, white and blue. It is also worth paying attention to the combination of gray with yellow or pink.
  4. Blue will perfectly complement the casual style. Thanks to the variety of shades, it combines well with other colors. Unique compositions will be obtained together with white, yellow, red, orange things.
  5. Green looks juicy and cheerful. It goes well with gray or white, blue or purple.
  6. Powder pink, mint, and blue will be irreplaceable when creating a gentle, romantic look. Yellow will make the image fresh and energetic. It will look especially impressive next to blue or black.
  7. A red trench coat can be chosen by those who are not afraid to be the center of attention. And in order not to be too bright, it is better to choose companion items in subdued tones. Light blue, blue, white, black will do.

When combining a white trench coat with black trousers or a skirt, you should not add a third shade to the look, as it will be inappropriate here.

Printed models deserve special attention. A product with an ornament along the bottom edge or beautifully decorated pockets looks interesting. Fans of bright images should pay attention to the Burberry trench coat or striped models. When choosing accessories, remember that they should match the pattern or its individual elements.

How is it different from a raincoat?

Many people confuse a trench coat and a raincoat. The distinctive features of a trench coat will help you understand the difference between these two items of clothing:

  1. High collar. Originally it was turned down, but today it can be raised if you need to protect yourself from the cool wind.
  2. Buttons in two rows. In military uniforms, they were supposed to serve as reliable protection from the cold, as well as add durability to the garment. Now this feature has become a recognizable detail of the classic model. Modern trench coats can be fastened with buttons or a zipper, or have no fasteners at all.
  3. Cuffs. At first, this detail was supposed to protect soldiers' hands from the cold. Modern trench coats also have cuffs, but now they don't have to be buttoned.
  4. Slit. Is a practical element. The slit is necessary so that the long trench coat does not restrict movement while walking.

Another characteristic feature of a trench coat is the belt. In standard models, it is tightened with a buckle. But modern designers suggest tying it with a knot. Some products may have decorative shoulder straps.

What to wear for women

What women wear with a trench coat depends on the chosen style:

  1. A business look involves wearing classic trousers, a blouse and black pumps. Another good "companion" is a skirt, in particular a pencil skirt. Additionally, it is worth choosing a bag whose shade will match the color of the shoes. Fashionistas who like to experiment replace tapered trousers with cropped ones, and wear brogues or oxfords instead of stilettos. Instead of a classic bag, you can take a briefcase or a backpack.
  2. A women's trench coat in delicate pastel colors is suitable for a date. It can be combined with a dress made of light fabric, as well as comfortable shoes with flat soles or wedges. A small bracelet and a handbag on a strap or chain will look good as accessories.
  3. At a social event, the image should be restrained, so under the coat they wear a black mini dress and pumps in the same color as the outerwear.
  4. Stylish khaki color is ideal for creating a military style image. It can be safely combined with jeans, white T-shirts, shirts and "army" boots. However, shoes with heels will look no less impressive. A bag with an abundance of metal details, stylish leather gloves, a watch with a large dial will be suitable as accessories.
  5. Casual style fans wear a trench coat with jeans and a sweatshirt or a loose shirt, which is tied in a knot in the front. Rough shoes, sneakers, and a shapeless tote bag will go well with this look.
  6. When creating a sports-style ensemble, the raincoat is combined with slip-ons, sneakers and a backpack. The color of the shorts or sports dress should harmoniously fit into the overall look.

Layering is in fashion today, so designers recommend wearing a coat with a jacket, unbuttoned. As for the length of skirts and dresses, there are no longer any restrictions. The hem can be higher or lower than the edge of the trench coat. The only condition is to maintain proportions and not to combine a wide top and too narrow bottom.

The popular trench dress model will look great with both classic pumps and leather over-the-knee boots. You can also complement the look with lace-up sandals or elegant ankle boots in the color of the coat.

Stylish ideas for men

Men's fashionable trench coats can be elongated or medium length. Despite the fact that the item is close to classic, it is acceptable to wear it with different clothes. Men who prefer a business style combine outerwear with classic trousers of black, blue, brown, beige colors, a discreet jumper or pullover and a shirt. As for footwear, preference should be given to boots made of genuine leather or oxfords.

In an informal setting, the coat is combined with blue, black or burgundy jeans and comfortable shoes - sneakers, loafers. But what should be avoided is a combination with sneakers, sweatpants and baseball caps. Such wardrobe details will look inappropriate, spoiling the whole impression of the trench coat. Accessories suitable are a briefcase, hat and glasses.

The length of the ideal men's trench coat depends on the person's height and build. Slender and fit men can choose any model. And those who have extra pounds should prefer the extended version.

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