How to Style The Trench
Welcome to a new series I'm adopting: How To Style. In these posts, I will be discussing my favourite types of clothing and how I like to style them. First up, the trench because...do I need to say more?
This year, I discovered the trench.
Sure, I had versions of a trench before – notably from Wish The Label and Zara – but I didn't really own a trench. I've learnt, recently, that a trench should be sturdy in its makeup, it should be tailored, well-fitted, and make you feel truly incredible when you wear it. Most of my former trenches were flimsy, thin and short – I've discovered that there's nothing more unflattering on my figure than a trench that sits just below the knee.
When I first saw this Camilla and Marc trench I was in awe. It's beautiful. The colour, the tailoring, the length (perfect for my height), the luxe, thicker material – it ticked all the boxes, except for one thing: the price. There was something about a near $1000 price tag that makes
you do a double take. But by the time I had talked myself into getting it (considering the cost per wear and replacing poor quality items with a timeless classic that will last me hopefully 10 years+), it was gone. Sold out. I looked everywhere – I'm talking pretty much every online store as well as any bricks and mortar stores I could think of in Australia, but no luck.
So, I waited. I refreshed product pages stating 'out of stock' every week until one day, Denim Iniquity had one. Just one. I acted fast and, now, this is without a doubt my favourite piece of clothing that I own!
How I Style The Trench
A trench is such a versatile piece. Heading to the shops? Dress it down with sneakers and track pants. Going for something a little classier? Opt for heeled boots and a smaller evening bag. I love a piece of clothing that can cover just about any occasion – it makes travelling with a dream and you'll find that your wardrobe's outfit combinations become endless. It also means I can have a more concise wardrobe, containing only high-quality, classic pieces.
Throughout winter this year (for the few weeks at a time we were out of lockdown at least), I found that this outfit was my go to look: chunky flat boots, fitted trousers or jeans, a tee or thin jumper, a crossbody bag and gold jewellery. I love the tonal look of the gold jewellery against this beautiful biscuit colour; however, I am still staying true to my style with the dark leather boots and bag as well as the monochrome outfit underneath.
If you're wanting more of an everyday, transeasonal look, I've also paired this exact look with my Veja Venturi Lace Up Sneakers. A very comfortable alternative.
Because of my hourglass figure, I've found that tighter fitting clothes underneath the trench accentuate my figure and means that the trench doesn't appear like it's swallowing me up. Another factor that helps with this is the mid-calf length – sometimes ankle length trenches can be overwhelming on smaller frames.
However, for an evening look, I would be tempted to pair this with my knitted Anna Quan set – the textures working well together for that perfect wintry outfit. To add structure back in I would opt for my Alias Mae stiletto heeled boots and a small evening bag such as my Givenchy Pandora Chain Wallet.
What to look for when investing in a trench
Length
As mentioned, ankle length trenches – especially for those of us under 6 foot – can often look overwhelming. But one too short can often look inexpensive and unflattering, cutting you off at the wrong part of your body. I've found the perfect length trench to be mid calf (even a touch longer than this Camilla and Marc one) as it will elongate the body so you appear taller.
Tailoring & Fit
When opting for a longer length trench, the key is to also have a tailored fit, otherwise the oversized nature can be too much and it really will look like it's swallowing you up!
Pay attention to things like arm fit and length, whether there's a tie to cinch in the waist, the shoulder structure and fit, lapels and how the fit is throughout the body of the trench; a slim, longline look will instantly make you appear taller!
Material
The material of your trench can really make or break it. If it's flimsy and the material used is largely manmade, it may be worth spending a bit more to ensure you purchase a trench that is going to last the test of time, made from more natural, thicker materials that hold their shape.
Colour
In my wardrobe, I don't like to have too many of the same style of clothings (t-shirts excepted!) So for me, sticking with neutrals was the best choice. I have this biscuit one as well as a black one from Camilla And Marc – timeless and they will work perfectly with the majority of other pieces in my wardrobe.
Shop The Trench:
Wearing: Camilla and Marc Tarantino Trench Coat In Biscuit, Camilla and Marc Shoulder Pad Tee (Similar here), Camilla and Marc Charlton Relaxed Viscose Pant (Not Sponsored – I just love this brand!), Acne Studios Musubi Mini Bag, Alias Mae Cam Boot, Lupo Studio Anguis Necklace (gifted).
Find me on Instagram: @estherreynoldsverco
