If autumn calls for one thing, it’s a transitional coat, something that will keep the chill out without weighing its wearer down – and the trench is the obvious answer. According to M&S shoppers, one coat from the retailer has ticked these boxes and is ‘stylish’ and ‘gorgeous’.
The M&S Collection Cotton Rich Belted Longline Trench Coat in black is £79, and out of just over 300 reviews by shoppers, has 272 that are five-star. This trench, which also comes in buff for the same price, has a double-breasted front and full lining.
The trench coat may have had its origins as a functional piece of an army officer’s uniform, but it has evolved significantly over the years to become a style staple. And this one from M&S boasts traditional trench features like epaulettes (shoulder detail), buttoned cuff straps and a detachable belt.
This coat is longline for extra coverage, yet is lightweight adding to its weather-proof practicality. It is machine washable with button detail that stays true to the aesthetic of this perennial fashion favourite. Another plus is that a trench can be worn night and day.
For a smarter evening look, pair it with wide-leg trousers, a boat neck or V-neck blouse and ballet pumps, loafers or colourful trainers. For daywear, opt for a simple plain t-shirt, knitted wool jumper, barrel leg jeans and leather boots or a pair of trainers.
For a more textured approach, Dorothy Perkins has the Yumi Green Faux Suede Trench Coat for £90. It has double-breasted buttoning, and faux suede for a luxurious addition, as well as pockets and a tie belt at the waist.
A shorter trench may be the preference for some, and Next has the ONLY cream short trench coat for £45. Also available in blue, this has most of the essential trench elements but is short in length. It has buttoned cuffs, button fastening and front pockets, and is perfect with a pair of jeans or post-workout with leggings.
The M&S purchase has been highly rated by shoppers online, with one five-star review saying: « Perfect, lined trench for autumn! I bought the beige colour which looks great styled with wide leg jeans and a striped top. I’m 5ft 3ins and bought the reg length – perfect mid-calf length, and cuffs can be tightened if too long. » Another shopper said: « Very stylish and lovely length, doesn’t feel heavy to wear and generous in fit for thick jumpers in winter. Very happy with it. »
One fan of the trench added: « Gorgeous classic raincoat and always on trend. Beautiful fabric and well made. Delighted with my purchase. »
Some customers had notes on the belt, with one person saying: « Really lovely trench coat, really nice fit and not too ‘billowy’ like many are. There only reason I have deducted a star is because the belt is quite short. I prefer to tie mine rather than buckle it and this belt is a little bit to short to do that properly. »
And another was in agreement, saying in their review: « Excellent value for money. Good quality fabric and great that it’s showerproof and washable. Agree that the belt could be longer as I like to tie it rather than buckle it. True to size. »
