Trench coats are the best coat of all time, no matter the season.
Hear me out…
They have “storm shields” and other fancy amenities (can we use that word for describing a garment?) like epaulettes and D-rings, but their most important feature is what they’re made out of…
Most trench coats have a 100% cotton lining (sleeves are 100% viscose) and have a 100% cotton outer layer (Gabardine).
Gabardine is a tightly woven fabric, it is impenetrable against weather and wear.
Let me go further — you can wear your trench coat when it’s 5°C & sunny and when it’s 25°C outside, because of its cotton composition.
On top of that technical talk, trench coats are a total Jane Birkin staple.
There is no coat that is as versatile and iconic as this one.
With the lightweight material and the 1960’s undertones, this coat was basically made for a drizzling summer day.
My #1 Trench Coat Outfit Tip
The only thing you really need to know about wearing a trench coat is that your dress’ hemline must be shorter than your trench coat’s hemline… unless it’s a dress that’s significantly longer than your trench coat.
When your dress’ hem is much longer than your trench’s, it makes the outfit feel too formal — a shorter dress hemline will make your look a lot more youthful.
Under your trench, your top should be loose and breathable — think natural fibres.
What shoes to wear with trench coats in the summer?
I’m assuming that you’re wearing a trench coat because it’s raining, it just rained, or you’re nervous about it raining.
Wellington boots are heavy, but, obviously they’re the ideal choice if it’s raining outside. I have a ton of tips and outfit ideas for styling rain boots here — there are loads more trench coat outfits in there too!
So, what other shoes can you wear with a trench?
Sandals
A light sandal will help air circulate on your lower-half and keep you cool.
Water-proof flats
… or a pair of ballet flats that you don’t mind getting a little mucky.
Sneakers
Mostly rain proof and will always look good.
Now, let’s get into some outfit ideas…
Note: All of these summer trench coat outfits are styled with my Burberry trench coats.
I bought them in 2010, when they cost around $800 — and, yes, I feel very lucky that I bought them before they went up to way up to over $1,000.
While they’re now exorbitantly expensive, Burberry’s trench coats are long-lasting…
OK, back to outfits, for real this time…
Trench Coats with Dresses in Summer
Keeping in mind the #1 rule that dresses should be shorter than the trench’s hemline, unless the dress’ hem is significantly longer than the trench…
With Denim Shorts…
My favourite combination!
Trench coats offset denim shorts’ casual factor.
The trench adds some polish, while still letting the shorts be casual.
With Jeans…
Any kind of jean works well with a trench — even overalls.
All you have to do is make sure that your top is super light, so you don’t overheat.
When it comes down to it, the trench coat can work any way you want it to in the summer.
… and that’s what makes it the best summer coat.
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