This weeks basics and replacements post covers the most stylish of wardrobe staples and the epitome of Parisian Chic, the classic trench coat.
From Jackie O back in the 1960's to modern day style icons, the trench is one wardrobe staple that never goes out of fashion.
This item of clothing most certainly falls into the replacements category for me, as I had one a few years ago but the style and length weren't quite right. It had cream buttons, a tie belt and was a sort of tulip shape at the bottom. I had bought it because it was on sale and have long since learn't that it is only a bargain if it is an item you have truly wanted for a while and couldn't previously afford and although it fitted both of these criteria, my money should have purchased a mac of more classic styling and proportions.
After having a good browse online a few weeks ago followed closely by a trip to Bluewater where I got the opportunity to check out a few of my favourites, I can now give you a well researched edit of what I truly believe to be the best available, from high street to high end.
My top pick and the one I am hoping to buy as a Burberry is sadly out of the question, is the M&S Mac with Stormwear at a very reasonable £79. I had seen it's great reviews on the website where it had been compared to far more expensive trench coats and it comes out very well. M&S do other styles in other ranges but some are quite thin when in the £39 price bracket and have a tie belt which isn't what I want at all, so this one definitely gets the thumbs up after trying it on and I can confirm it was pretty true to size with a bit of room for layering and has a great quality and finish.
M&S Stormwear Trench £79.00.
Aside from the one featured above, I love both the Gerard Darel and the Jigsaw one's featured below. I have never known anyone who hasn't praised a Jigsaw trench which is very encouraging and I just noticed that the M&S sale have a Per Una one (not a fan of that range but a mac is a mac and they can't really go wrong with that) reduced from £79 to £49.
This post is intended to be all about the classic wardrobe staples every woman should own, so on that basis I haven't featured anything of a trend led colour nor any contrast sleeve options, and if like me you are an apple shape with an ample bust then you may well wish to leave the belt undone.
Is your trench coat an invaluable outerwear option?