When British troops wore a modified version of Thomas Burberry's raincoat in the trenches during World War I, the iconic "Trench Coat" was born. D-rings, epaulettes and leather wrist and collar straps were added to Burberry's 1901 design to create their uniforms. Today, the Burberry Trench coat remains one of fashion's most coveted pieces, especially as we move into Autumn. Princess-to-be Kate Middleton created a sell-out at Burberry last week when she was seen in one of their double-breasted khaki trench coats! The trench is the perfect coat that goes with everything and hides all figure flaws with it’s cleverly cut fabric. It is a wardrobe staple that offers timeless style and a must-have edition to your wardrobe.
It was only natural to go straight to the Burberry website and lust over the ultimate trench coat. 2011 has been quite directional for Burberry ‘s Trench with heavy detail of either python, biker leather or even gold studs across the shoulders and sleeves, but there is still the forever classic trench that will become your ultimate wardrobe staple for years to come.
Why you need it now?
What to look for in the perfect trench
The basic style of the Trench is classic, so be sure not to deviate too much. Look for it in lightweight wool, gabardine or cotton mix canvas. Reinforced stitching, metal fasteners covered in leather, quality lining and tortoiseshell buttons are all signs of quality. Knee-length is chic and classic but why not experiment with the short-cropped style. And while black, cream and taupe are hard to beat, purple, crimson or blue are very now (just add ankle socks and heels a la model of the moment Agyness Deyn). If your budget allows, a Burberry trench will last a lifetime.
4. Too much detail on a trench can give the illusion of extra weight. Petite women should keep details simple, avoiding voluminous cuts and big lapels and epaulettes.
7. A leather trench coat may make a dramatic fashion statement but steer clear if wanting to wear it often in the rain. A cotton blend will suffer less.
8. To get a truly stylish look, turn up the collar slightly, scrunch up the sleeves and knot the belt rather than use the buckle.
9. Or to wear it open, tie the belt at the back with the buckle hanging loose.
If budget allows, then Burberry has a delectable assortment of cuts and colours or Camilla and Marc are offering a gorgeous brown and camel check wool trench. Trenery does a fab version in subtle check. David Lawrence has an incredible offer right now for $350 including a classic trench, merino wool knit, plus trouser or denim jean for instant style.
Trench coats in neutrals can be found at Witchery with a khaki longer trench this season in medium weight stretch fabric. Plus, Sambag has a well-priced classic trench in stone or black for only $190. For a splash of colour, Sportscraft offer a shorter blue trench that will work well with denim.
There are so many choices out there this season. Make sure you check the quality of the fabric and that it suits your body shape. Remember, this is an investment piece where any extra money spent will be well worth it. This coat will remain as a staple in your wardrobe for many years to come. We would welcome you to email us any photos of you in your favourite trench that we can share with our readers next month.
It was only natural to go straight to the Burberry website and lust over the ultimate trench coat. 2011 has been quite directional for Burberry ‘s Trench with heavy detail of either python, biker leather or even gold studs across the shoulders and sleeves, but there is still the forever classic trench that will become your ultimate wardrobe staple for years to come.
Why you need it now?
The Trench defies age and era, looking as fabulous today as it did when Audrey Hepburn wore one in Breakfast At Tiffany's. Lightweight, weather resistant and eternally chic (look at Kate Moss and Angelina Jolie), this season the look is cropped just above the knee and in punchy bright shades.
What to look for in the perfect trench
The basic style of the Trench is classic, so be sure not to deviate too much. Look for it in lightweight wool, gabardine or cotton mix canvas. Reinforced stitching, metal fasteners covered in leather, quality lining and tortoiseshell buttons are all signs of quality. Knee-length is chic and classic but why not experiment with the short-cropped style. And while black, cream and taupe are hard to beat, purple, crimson or blue are very now (just add ankle socks and heels a la model of the moment Agyness Deyn). If your budget allows, a Burberry trench will last a lifetime.
Style tips to suit you
1. Avoid bulky fabric and shapes and ensure the cut follows the line of your body without being too tight. It should also cinch in at the waist then drape into a subtle A-line at the hem. If you are short in the waist, wear your belt low to elongate the torso
2. Those with narrow shoulders or wide hips should look for traditional trench features, such as epaulettes and large lapels, to help balance out their shape
3. Hemlines should finish on or just above-the-knee. Trenches that sit mid-calf length are best left for the clothes horses they’re modeled on. The fabric will drown you and make you appear larger, and unfortunately shorter.
4. Too much detail on a trench can give the illusion of extra weight. Petite women should keep details simple, avoiding voluminous cuts and big lapels and epaulettes.
5. Double-breasted coats, with the extra row of buttons, can create the impression of width so are best avoided by fuller-figured women especially with larger busts.
6. For ease of movement, the coat should have a fantail pleat; an inverted pleat at the center back.
7. A leather trench coat may make a dramatic fashion statement but steer clear if wanting to wear it often in the rain. A cotton blend will suffer less.
8. To get a truly stylish look, turn up the collar slightly, scrunch up the sleeves and knot the belt rather than use the buckle.
9. Or to wear it open, tie the belt at the back with the buckle hanging loose.
Where to shop...
If budget allows, then Burberry has a delectable assortment of cuts and colours or Camilla and Marc are offering a gorgeous brown and camel check wool trench. Trenery does a fab version in subtle check. David Lawrence has an incredible offer right now for $350 including a classic trench, merino wool knit, plus trouser or denim jean for instant style.
Trench coats in neutrals can be found at Witchery with a khaki longer trench this season in medium weight stretch fabric. Plus, Sambag has a well-priced classic trench in stone or black for only $190. For a splash of colour, Sportscraft offer a shorter blue trench that will work well with denim.
There are so many choices out there this season. Make sure you check the quality of the fabric and that it suits your body shape. Remember, this is an investment piece where any extra money spent will be well worth it. This coat will remain as a staple in your wardrobe for many years to come. We would welcome you to email us any photos of you in your favourite trench that we can share with our readers next month.
