Spring Must-Have: The Trench

The Art of the Trench

The warm and sunny weather here in Detroit over the last few days has me ready to shed my winter coat and debut the jackets!  Nothing says spring like a great trench coat (ok, and maybe baseball).  It’s a top pick for the season – just ask Tory Burch who answered “ a great trench” when asked on The View last Friday for her thoughts on the must-haves for spring.

Though it began as a military uniform, the trench coat has become a cornerstone of the 21st century wardrobe.  It perfectly balances style and function with its chic-yet-classic construction.  Burberry has long been known for their trenches – they’ve even celebrated the iconic coat by creating a social networking site, The Art of the Trench, to document people wearing them around the world. 

Royal fiancé,  Kate Middleton, started a fury earlier this month when she wore a gorgeous Burberry trench on a surprise visit to Northern Ireland.  The chic double-breasted trench sported military details and a flared ruffled hem and within a day was sold out on the company’s web site.  This trench is my top pick with its classic, romantic styling – I must have it. 

 

A great classic investment piece, Smythe, gives us their impeccable tailoring with a modern take on the trench.  I really don’t think the photo does this one justice.  The details abound with the flattering double pockets, beautiful waistline and exaggerated lapel. 

Once you experience a Smythe tailored jacket, you become addicted for life.

 

 

Tory Burch has created quite a lifestyle brand and serious devoted clientele. 

I love her sophisticated “Luther” version in ivory.  It looks so elegant with a pretty dress and would be incredibly chic with a great pair of jeans or a sleek pair of ivory trousers.          

Amazing attention to detail here.

 

 

Hipsters, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, have really impressed me with their Elizabeth and James collection.  The ladies have been trendsetters for years and have done well with many branding efforts in fashion, but its this line that has really peaked my interest. 

I love the hip, yet vintage styling in their belted twill trench.  The A-Line coat has leather trim detailing on a shoulder flap and center back belt and belted cuffs.  

Really great piece.

 

 

 

Elie Tahari’s “Sylvana” trench stands out to me because of its three button closure and bright white shade.  It’s one of those jackets that you see on a woman passing by and find yourself thinking about it hours later wondering where to find it. 

Other details include a tonal grosgrain ribbon adorning the flap pockets and belted cuffs.  A buckled tie cinches the waist and the back sports a stormflap and large inverted pleat.

 

     

Always a favorite designer of mine, Milly’s Piped Stretch Twill Trench is about as cute as they come.

Each spring, I find myself captivated by navy and white so this trench really caught my eye.  The navy piping is a great contrast to the white twill and great interest, particularly on the belt. 

This jacket is immensely flattering and chic.

 

 

 

What I love most about trenches is that they are classic and can be interpreted in so many different ways, making them a staple for any age and any style.

Sites like Top Shop and ASOS are great for finding unique styling at affordable prices.  The 70’s belted trench from ASOS comes in other shades and is only $125!   The tan color shown here really pops with the slightly darker belt and the deep covered pockets are fabulous.  

 

Top Shop’s Tall Stone Storm Flap Trench has great detail and perfect flirty length.

The right trench can be worn with anything and is a great investment piece for any budget.  It’s smart to own one in a classic cut and color, but also add to your collection with a bright colored version or different texture.   

 

 

 

Another sassy take on the trench is the Corset Lace Back Trench at ASOS.  I adore the fun, youthful styling shown with this coat which really helps convey its attitude.

The single breasted jacket features dual pleats at the front and a full skirt.  The back features a laced panel woven through eyelets to gather in a bustle.  

At under $60, this one is truly a steal. 

Now that I have at least four trenches on my wish list, I better narrow it down a bit.  In a dream world, I’ll have Kate’s trench and maybe a kicky fun version from ASOS.  I’ll report back when I make the big decision.

Bring on the trenches…..and SPRING!