Transitional weather is hard to dress for. That's why I believe we all ought to own at least one solid trench coat — something light enough for milder days, but protective when the forecast turns.
All the fall style trends I've witnessed have skewed more Parisian-tailored than, say, a windbreaker or an oversized bomber. I know I feel way more put-together anytime I'm in my Sézane trench (even if I'm secretly wearing sweats underneath).
When choosing which styles to test, I delved into which clothing labels are using the same DWR fabric treatments that outdoor gear brands use for sealing out moisture. I also combed through Reddit forums and 5-star Amazon reviews to find trench coats that punch above their price point.
Nearly every coat on this list was tested by a member of our style team, ranging from a discounted Lands' End coat to a Lilysilk trench that's truly an outfit in itself. Whether you prefer a classic double-breasted khaki or a more streamlined silhouette, our style editors' favorite trench coats balance function with polish — offering coverage without bulk, and structure without stiffness.
A quick look at our favorite trench coats:
Our best overall trench pick, this classic coat from Lands' End is just as practical as it is stylish. It comes in petite and tall lengths, is fully waterproof and windproof, and has a timeless silhouette.
The Sézane Clyde Coat is a splurge that instantly feels worth it. Made from a soft, cotton-viscose blend that drapes beautifully, it captures Sézane’s signature Parisian ease with its relaxed fit, elegant check lining, and classic design.
If you want more warmth than a traditional canvas trench, this wool coat from Quince is much more affordable than similar coats with the same style and materials.
How we tested for the best trench coats
We evaluated each trench coat for fit, comfort, and overall material quality, wearing each piece in a range of weather conditions to see how it held up. We paid close attention to drape, warmth, and weight, noting how each coat layered over different outfits.
To test performance, we assessed water-repellent and wind-resistant capabilities, as well as how wrinkle-resistant and durable the fabrics were after regular wear. Every coat was judged on how well it balanced style and function.
What to look for in a trench coat
Fit: The ideal fit depends on the look and function you want. A classic trench coat typically has a closer fit with a defined waist, often enhanced by a belt or subtle tailoring. This creates a polished, hourglass silhouette that works over light layers. More modern or oversized silhouettes may offer a roomier fit that prioritizes comfort and layering heavier sweaters.
Material quality: Most modern trenches are made from cotton, polyester, or a blend, often with added stretch or a water-repellent finish. Premium options may include sustainably sourced or OEKO-TEX certified fabrics. Choose a material that feels sturdy but not stiff and has a smooth drape that flatters your frame.
Weather resistance: If you plan to wear your trench regularly, water-repellent or waterproof fabrics are a must. Some are also wind-resistant, which adds extra comfort on chilly, breezy days. Fully seam-sealed styles offer the most protection, while lightweight water-resistant versions work well for transitional weather.
Weight and warmth: A lightweight trench is perfect for spring and early fall, while lined or insulated options add warmth for even cooler temperatures. The best ones strike a balance: warm enough for brisk mornings, but breathable enough that you won't overheat indoors.
Nice-to-have details: A removable hood, interior pockets, or two-way zippers can make a trench more functional day to day. Wrinkle-resistant fabrics are especially useful if you travel or commute often, and adjustable features like belted cuffs or a detachable waist tie help you customize the fit and look.
Best overall: Lands' End Squall Waterproof Modern Trench Raincoat
Pros: Waterproof, windproof, classic design, fully-lined
Cons: No hood, only comes in two colors
This Lands' End trench coat is one of those rare pieces that perfectly blend timeless style with true functionality. It's routinely recognized as one of the best trench coats out there for good reason.
At first glance, it has all the hallmarks of a classic trench: a double-breasted front, shoulder epaulettes, and a waist tie that cinches in nicely. But what sets it apart is its performance. Unlike most trenches, it's fully waterproof and windproof, with sealed seams that actually keep you dry in the rain. The fabric feels soft to the touch — not stiff or crinkly like a typical raincoat — and it fits true to size with just enough room for layering.
The lining adds light warmth without making it bulky, so it's perfect for transitional weather or mild winters. I especially love how it manages to feel polished enough for the office but still practical for running errands on a wet day. Everyone should have a classic trench in their wardrobe, and if you're only buying one, this is the one to get. It's everything a trench coat should be, with the bonus of real protection from the elements.
Best oversized: Sézane Clyde Coat
Pros: Water-repellent, contrast check lining
Cons: Expensive
The Sézane Clyde Coat might be my personal favorite trench coat I tested, just narrowly missing the best overall spot because of its higher price and non-traditional silhouette. Still, it's one of those splurge pieces that immediately feels worth it. The cotton-viscose blend fabric is OEKO-TEX certified, soft right out of the box, and drapes beautifully. It's cozy without being heavy. I can tell this is a coat I'll be wearing and loving for years.
Sézane, the chic French label behind the design, is known for timeless, high-quality pieces that nail that effortless Parisian aesthetic. This coat captures that vibe perfectly: it's relaxed yet refined, stylish without trying too hard. The oversized fit feels modern and comfortable, with ample room to layer bulky sweaters underneath without appearing boxy.
I also love the thoughtful details, like the contrast check lining, which adds an elevated touch when I cuff the sleeves to show it off. The absence of a belt gives it a minimalist, fashion-forward edge, though it does mean you lose a bit of wind protection on colder days.
Best Amazon: Orolay Single-Breasted Hudson Trench
Pros: Simple silhouette, affordable, wide color variety
Cons: Runs small, especially in the chest and shoulders
This Orolay Hudson Trench is one of the most affordable options on this list that still delivers on style and performance. Priced under $100, it stands out for offering thoughtful design details you don't usually see at this price point.
It comes in six colors and sticks to a classic trench silhouette, with a single-breasted front, rear yoke, and a split hem that makes it easier to move in. It has deep pockets in , and the overall look feels polished enough to rival more expensive styles, including this minimalist option from quiet-luxury brand Jenni Kayne.
The thin fabric is water-repellent and wind-resistant, so you can rely on this trench in light mists and mild breezes. While it's billed as wrinkle-resistant, that claim is mixed in practice. Some reviewers say it travels well, but others note it benefits from a quick steam once unpacked.
Best for travel: Athleta Stellar Trench
Pros: wrinkle-resistant, can fit into a purse when folded, UPF 40+, lightweight, stretchy, comes in 3 lengths
Cons: not waterproof, only comes in black
When you think about the best travel jackets, the word "trench" doesn't exactly come to mind. The longer silhouettes can often be bulky, stiff, or prone to wrinkling — making them an unlikely choice for travel or tossing in a tote.
The Athleta Stellar Trench is none of these things. Like all of my favorite Athleta work pants, it's made from a fabric that's equal parts substantial, stretchy, and breathable. The coat is so comfy, it drapes more like a robe than a jacket. I've even used it as a blanket to take a nap on a chilly bus!
Still, the look remains luxe and elevated. It's polished enough for work, but practical enough to toss in your tote without a second thought. It folds or rolls easily and resists wrinkles almost completely. I've even been reaching for it on cooler, rainy summer days, thanks to a ventilated mesh panel on the back that keeps things breathable. Mine has a pretty roomy fit, which adds to the comfort and airflow, but you could easily size down if you prefer a more tailored look.
Best cropped: Tuckernuck Drew Short Trench
Pros: Versatile styling options, on-trend silhouette, monogram optional
Cons: Hand wash only, not weatherproof
The cropped trench is one of the most sought-after pieces this spring. We tested Tuckernuck's Winston Trench before it ran out of stock and found the sizing to be plus-size friendly. Its Drew Short Trench has a similarly short and boxy fit, with all the trappings of your classic trench. The crisp lapels and button plackets give it a more tailored edge than any windbreaker or light puffer jacket you'd typically reach for during the transitional weather season.
Being partial to natural textiles, it's also nice to see a trench made f 100% cotton. It has a light and breathable feel, but if you ever want to seal out more air, you can cinch the sleeves with the button tabs around the cuffs. This swingy, oversized layering staple comes in olive, black, camel suede, or the classic khaki.
Best wool: Quince Italian Wool Double-Breasted Slouch Coat
Pros: Warm, comes in 6 colors, reasonable price
Cons: Limited size range, loose fit lets in wind
Besides the perfectly oversized fit, the thing I love most about the Quince Italian Wool Double-Breasted Slouch Coat is that it's lined on the inside for added warmth. Many slouch coats are made without a lining because the lack of added structure allows the wool to drape more loosely. While that may give you a slightly more cozy silhouette, it means you miss out on any real insulation. The lining here gives the coat just enough structure to feel sophisticated and clean, but clever details like a shoulder seam that continues down the arm still gives it an almost cape-like, drop-shoulder fit.
I would personally recommend opting for the black color over the tan. While the tan might look nice in online photos, I can tell that the color is pretty flat, which means it won't look quite as elegant in person. — Sally Kaplan, executive editor, Business Insider Reviews
Best suede: Tanya Taylor Suede Clayton Coat
Pros: Beautiful heavyweight suede, lots of pocket space
Cons: Not weatherproof
"I've struggled to find the perfect trench coat because I'm worried the classic khaki kind will make look like McGruff the Crime Dog. This suede trench from Tanya Taylor instead has a very cool, laid back '70s vibe to it, and I inevitably receive compliments on my outfit each time I wear it (even if I have on a sweatsuit underneath).
A comfortable, slouchy long coat is an outfit in itself. The Tanya Taylor Suede Clayton Coat has a roomy fit, which allows me to layer multiple sweaters underneath. The rich chocolate color is very saturated and reads as brown, even in low lighting.
Made with a thick goat leather suede, this soft material drapes beautifully, and (most importantly) keeps me warm. The one drawback is that I'll only wear it if the forecast looks clear. The material is so luxurious that I don't dare get it wet. I'll still travel with it on because it has four huge pockets and feels like a cozy blanket when I'm on a long train ride." — Gabrielle Chase, senior associate style editor, Insider Reviews
Best sherpa: UGG Gertrude Teddy
Pros: Super warm, stylish
Cons: Dry clean only, not great for rain
This coat is so cute and cozy, and I love that it fits pretty much any occasion — from a fancy holiday party to a weekend brunch. Plus, the Gertrude Long Teddy Coat is thick and warm, so perfect for the true dead of winter.
I'm 5'11" and it easily stretches down to my knees, so with winter boots and a hat I feel truly bundled from head to toe. I love that it's available in plus sizes. I'm normally a 2X but sized up to a 3X so I'd have plenty of room for extra layers. It's very roomy, but still has a tailored shape to it that I find is lacking in most teddy bear coats.
The only thing to be mindful of is the bright white color, which I've found is fundamentally incompatible with life in dirty downtown Manhattan (and life with a black cat that is very intrigued by any sherpa-like fabric), but I couldn't resist the snowy white color for winter, and I love the contrast it adds against my black hair.
It's dry-clean only, and I know I'll have to send it out for cleaning at least once during the season to keep it looking nice. I also think it would be a lovely choice for a bride looking for a winter wedding coat. — Lauren Savoie, former deputy executive editor, Business Insider Reviews
Best hooded: Lolë Alizé Rain Trench Coat
Pros: Waterproof, fully seam sealed, roll-away hood, hidden zip pockets, machine washable on delicate setting
Cons: Velcro "snaps" may snag clothing, popular sizes and colors sell out quickly
The Lolë Alizé Rain Trench Coat was made for people who actually deal with unpredictable weather but don't want to give up on looking put together. It's constructed from a fully seam-sealed, waterproof 10K fabric with a durable water-repellent coating. The hood rolls away neatly into the collar, which I love for maintaining a clean silhouette when the forecast clears up. This trench is also breathable and quick-drying, so it never feels stuffy even when it's humid out. The material has a soft, slightly structured feel.
There's also a two-way zipper and hidden snaps for a streamlined front, plus a removable tie belt if you want a more cinched shape. Another bonus: It's made from recycled fibers that are Global Recycled Standard certified and sourced without harmful chemicals.
My one complaint, though, is the velcro closure. When I wore this jacket open over a thin sweater, the Velcro "snaps" snagged the fabric.
Best silk: Lilysilk Oversized Long Coat
Pros: Lightweight, roomy fit, high-quality silk
Cons: Expensive, not weather-resistant
For anyone leaning into the quiet luxury trend, the Lilysilk Oversized Long Coat delivers the look effortlessly. It's one of the most luxe-feeling trench-style coats I tested, made from heavy momme silk crepe with a smooth, subtly textured finish and an elegant sheen. From the first wear, it felt lightweight yet indulgent — the kind of coat that instantly elevates even jeans and a tee.
The oversized fit adds to its appeal. It drapes beautifully and moves with you, more like a robe than a structured trench, creating a fluid, relaxed silhouette that feels modern and refined. The silk fabric is breathable, wrinkle-resistant, and surprisingly durable for something so delicate-looking. I also love the minimalist design (no fussy buttons or zippers), which keeps the spotlight on the fabric's rich texture and natural luster, though it does detract from the warmth.
That said, this one's more about aesthetic than function. It's a definite splurge and not built for bad weather. Still, it's a stunner for layering on mild days or throwing over a sleek outfit for dinner.
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Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at reviews@jkmperu.com.
