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Splurge, Spend, Save: Trench Coats

Investing in timeless staples is essential when building a wardrobe. But just as important is learning to budget and know what you’re comfortable spending.

Interestingly, our willingness to spend is often a reflection of our personal priorities rather than our income. Personally, I’ve found myself becoming more thoughtful and practical about my purchases as I’ve grown older and more financially savvy. The allure of designer labels and status symbols has diminished, replaced by a focus on quality and functionality.

It’s my firm belief that investing in key pieces is the cornerstone of a wearable, functional, and sustainable wardrobe. And when I say ‘investment’, I don’t mean a specific dollar amount. Whether you’re comfortable spending $1,500 on a trench coat or $150 feels like a splurge, it’s all about what makes sense for you.

Now, let’s discuss where to splurge, spend, and save on trench coats.

This classic piece will never go out of style, so it’s important to consider the cost per wear. Will you reach for it all season long, or is it more of a “nice-to-have” item?

For me, a trench falls somewhere in the middle. It’s not an everyday staple, but I like having it on hand. Investing a bit more in a high-quality coat that can last for years may be worth it, but plenty of mid-range and budget-friendly options offer quality and style. The choice is yours—and I’m here to guide you to the best options for your budget.

Splurge, Spend, Save: Trench Coats

Splurge, Spend, Save: Trench Coats

I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the iconic Burberry trench. I treated myself to one for my 30th birthday—back when you could actually score one during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. Even at a discount, it was the most expensive piece of clothing I had ever bought, and I had no business buying it at the time. But I wore it for years and absolutely loved it. Eventually, though, it became a bit snug, and now it lives in my 17-year-old’s closet.

These days, Burberry trenches retail for around $2,500, and frankly, I’d rather spend that on furniture or art. But if you’ve always dreamed of owning one, you won’t be disappointed—just be aware they run incredibly small and don’t offer a wide size range.

That said, I’m not making the Burberry trench my “splurge” pick; we’ll call it a “designer investment.” It’s on a different level than a typical splurge.

Splurge: Greta Belted Water Resistant Twill Trench Coat by Barbour

Splurge: Greta Belted Water Resistant Twill Trench Coat by Barbour
Greta Belted Water Resistant Twill Trench Coat, $395

Our splurge pick, the Greta Belted Water-Resistant Twill Trench Coat by Barbour, is surprisingly reasonable given the landscape of high-end trench coats. It strikes the perfect balance between investment and practicality, offering years of solid wear without feeling overly indulgent.

The coat comes in both US and UK sizes, but keep in mind that, while Barbour claims this style runs large, I’ve found that their coats generally have a slim fit. I wouldn’t recommend sizing up unless you prefer a roomier silhouette.

This is a piece you’ll reach for season after season, making it a smart, stylish investment.

Spend: New Icon Trench by J.Crew

New Icon Trench by J.Crew
New Icon Trench, $276.00 (ON SALE)

J.Crew’s New Icon Trench, currently on sale for $276, is the ideal “spend” piece—especially when you consider what’s out there. It’s a great balance of style, quality, and price, making it an excellent mid-range option.

In addition to the classic khaki, it’s also available in navy for those looking for something a bit different. With sizes ranging from 00 to 24 and petite options available, it offers a great fit for a variety of body types. This trench is versatile, well-made, and perfect for anyone looking to invest in a timeless wardrobe staple without breaking the bank.

Save: Classic Double Breasted Water Repellent Cotton Trench Coat by Mango

Classic Double Breasted Water Repellent Cotton Trench Coat by Mango
Classic Double Breasted Water Repellent Cotton Trench Coat, $139.99

I am wildly impress lately with Mango’s collection. Their style and quality is pretty fantastic and their Classic Double Breasted Water Repellent Cotton Trench Coat retailing for $139.99 is fabulous save piece.

I also like this one from Sam Edelman, available in several colors with a removable hood on sale for $150.

Under $100

Under $100 trench coats

Looking for something under $100?

I like the Comfort Stretch Trench Coat from Quince for $99 available in khaki, navy and black in XS – XL OR the Noa Trench Coat by The Drop on Amazon, also $99, in an inclusive size range XXS – 5X.

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Megan Kristel

Megan Kristel is an entrepreneur, working mom, and former personal stylist. Tired of the one-dimensional portrayal of women online, she founded The Well Dressed Life as a resource for other professional women.

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Cindy

Monday 7th of October 2024

Back when I was a practicing attorney, trench coats were de rigueur and I wore one nearly every day in spring and fall. Through multiple career changes, I wore mine less frequently, but it still filled that need for a dressier coat for business meetings or nights at the ballet. These days, it’s all about practicality for me, and I refuse to wear a water repellent or water resistant coat that doesn’t have a hood. I’ve lost too many umbrellas and hate carrying them, especially when it’s only sprinkling or scattered showers are in the forecast. I finally found a London Fog hooded trench and have never looked back (although I still pine for a Burberry trench!).

Bonnie

Saturday 5th of October 2024

Just wanted to put in a good word for the current cropped trench that you see everywhere these days. I took a chance and ordered the Soadimallsu cropped trench from Amazon and I am very impressed thus far. It looks really nice straight out of the box, drapes well, and is lined. I recommend it!

Kim

Thursday 3rd of October 2024

Love the look of a classic trench. However, as a heavy pear shape, double-breasted styles don’t fit and don’t look good when they are buttoned or buttoned and belted. It seems that a single-breasted style would be a better fit and could fill this slot in the wardrobe. What do you think?