Identifying your body shape is the key first step to finding dresses that fit flawlessly and highlight your best features. Style isn’t just about chasing trends—it’s about celebrating your unique silhouette and elevating your look with pieces that complement your figure. The same logic applies to selecting a trench coat: this iconic outerwear staple should flatter your shape, align with your wardrobe needs, and reflect your personal style. To help you pick a trench coat that feels like it was made just for you, we’ve put together a straightforward, actionable guide.
1. Do you already own a trench coat and what colour is it?
This question seems simple enough, but it holds the key to building a versatile outerwear collection. Here’s the golden rule: every wardrobe needs at least one camel-coloured trench coat. If you don’t have a trench yet, or if your existing collection only includes bold, colourful styles, a camel trench should be your top priority.
That said, not all camel tones are created equal—some shades clash with certain complexions, while others enhance your natural glow. Before buying, hold the coat up to your face in natural light. Notice how the colour interacts with your skin tone; if it makes you look bright and refreshed, it’s a winner.
If you already have a camel trench in your closet, it’s time to add a pop of colour. Blue is set to be one of the hottest trench coat hues for the upcoming fall season, with both soft pale shades and deep, rich tones trending strongly.
2. Choosing the right length
Selecting the perfect trench coat length boils down to one simple factor: what you wear most often in fall and spring. Use these easy tricks to find your ideal fit:
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For trouser lovers: Knee-length or slightly shorter trench coats pair perfectly with pants. If you have a fuller figure, stick to at least knee length for the most flattering silhouette—it skims over the hips and creates a balanced line. Petite women can make a stylish statement with shorter trenches, which elongate the legs when worn with tailored trousers or jeans.
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For skirt and dress fans: The best rule of thumb is to pick a trench that’s at least as long as your hemline—or longer. This creates a sleek, cohesive look that doesn’t cut your figure awkwardly. A midi or maxi trench coat over a midi dress, for example, adds an elegant, layered vibe, while a knee-length trench complements a mini skirt without feeling mismatched.
3. Add your personal note
We’re lucky to live in an era where trench coat styles are incredibly diverse—there’s a design for every taste, so it’s almost impossible to pick a “wrong” option. But the most important trench coat is the one that makes you smile when you put it on, the one that makes you feel confident and like your best self. Sometimes, though, that perfect coat doesn’t exist in store racks.
So, take matters into your own hands. First, think about the colours you plan to wear most this season—what outerwear shade would pair seamlessly with those pieces? Then, combine that insight with the colour and length tips above to design a custom trench coat that’s uniquely yours. For example, I designed the pale blue trench featured in today’s post because my wardrobe was missing a soft pastel outerwear option. I’m thrilled with the fit, and the personalised lining I chose adds a special touch that makes the coat feel one-of-a-kind.
