17 best trench coats for women now that autumn has arrived

Consider this my love letter to trench coats for women; if there's one item I'm returning to every autumn, it's this transitional silhouette.

In fact, when it comes to the best autumn outfit ideas, they are the backbone of any well-curated capsule wardrobe. Versatile, classic, appropriate for a plethora of weather conditions… trench coats stand the test of time and, in my opinion, deserve every bit of praise they get.

So, where did everyone's obsession with them begin? Although it's hard to pinpoint the exact date they came to fruition, we do know they were big during the First World War – which is when Thomas Burberry first invented his functional silhouette; one which went on to be worn by the soldiers themselves.

Are trench coats still in style 2024?

The trench coat has expanded its remits for 2024. Needless to say, the classic Burberry trench coat people love so dearly will never lose its space (the camel and toasted brown colourway is still huge, while their black is forever a classic), however there have been some upgrades to the standardised silhouette as of recent catwalks.

Suede and leather trench coats are going to be everywhere this season – you've probably already spotted them, in fact – according to Hermès and Max Mara, while elsewhere, we've spotted styles with contrasting collars, cuffs and linings.

Best cut from gabardine (it's breathable and waterproof) or sturdy cotton, a trench will save you when it's too cold for a denim jacket but too warm to wrap up in a faux fur winter coat. While a parka, puffer or raincoat are all perhaps more suitable for walks in the countryside, a trusty trench coat is the answer to everything else. GLAMOUR's Acting Fashion Editor, Rosie Lai, recently tried on The Frankie Shop's new-in denim trench coat and it's all we've been able to think about since.

Whether you're ‘team layer’ and prefer to wear yours atop a T-shirt and blazer for that extra bit of warmth, or you're a ‘drape-it-over-the-shoulders’ sort, trench coats for women have the magical ability to make every outfit feel much more put-together. Transitional-dressing? Incomplete without a trench coat.

For more from GLAMOUR UK's Senior Commerce Writer Georgia Trodd, follow her on Instagram @georgiatrodd.

Below, the 17 best trench coats for women to buy now and wear forever.