European-Style Trench Coat Outfit Ideas You’ll Want to Steal
European’s have a way of making their outfits look so effortlessly chic and boy do they know how to style the humble wardrobe staple: the trench coat.
Trench coats are available in all different shapes, colors, and fabrics and each season designers seem to bring their own assortment of embellishments or twists to the ever-present coat style.
Despite all these options and my usual affinity for eclectic styling, my heart lies with the tried and true classic maxi khaki trench coat (an example of which you’ll see in my final look). Of course, that doesn’t mean I won’t be styling this immortal piece in eclectic ways.
Trench Coat Outfit Idea #1 | French Girl Chic
The first look features a chic shorter version of the classic trench in typical khaki with the uncommon addition of an industrial-strength zipper that serves to toughen up this otherwise conventional trench.
To bring some color to this neutral-toned coat I’ve teamed a bubblegum pink gingham shirt with vibrant tomato red accessories including an Angela Roi bowling ball style bag and penny loafers.
And I just can’t get over how stylish these vintage Scott ski sunglasses look. The reflective colored lenses bring some playful drama and ooze fashionista vibes. They single-handedly brought this look into high fashion territory.
Yes, trench coats can work with an array of footwear but I’m especially keen on styling them with loafers. And ankle-cropped raw hem jeans are the ideal current jean style to pair with penny loafers (socks optional).
I scored this pair of preloved Maison Margiela jeans for a steal at my local Salvation Army and their sleek silhouette and subdued wash makes them appropriate for the office. The addition of a light grey sweater vest further smartens up the look and helps to combat any remaining chill in the air.
– OUTFIT DETAILS –
RED LOAFERS | By Blanch (similar by Good Guys Don’t Wear Leather and Carmona Collection)
PURSE | Angela Roi (current styles by Angela Roi)
SUNGLASSES | Vintage Scott (similar by Oakley)
Trench Coat Outfit Idea #2 | Grandpa-Inspired
This next trench is another mid-length one in a slightly darker shade of beige. I jazzed it up with an oversized vintage butterfly brooch and styled it over a polo shirt and dress slacks.
The overall vibe here is grandpa-inspired thanks to the ankle-cropped pleated trousers paired with stark white tennis shoes. If you’re looking for the perfect white sneakers for spring, these just might be them. If you need further convincing I highlighted these beauties in my 3 White Vegan Sneakers post (where you’ll also find a 10% off discount code).
Similar to the butterfly pin, another fun styling touch was the addition of violet socks. Adding a playful dollop of color by way of patterned or fun colored socks never hurt anybody and makes certain the look doesn’t get too serious. Pairing them with ankle pants also ensures they’ll get the attention they deserve.
The piece really carrying this grandpa-esque look is these vintage grey trousers with wide pinstripes. These pleated pants are one of my favorite thrifted finds thanks to their ease of styling, versatility, and on-trend cut. For another way to style them check out my post featuring the Coolest Vegan Combat Boots.
– OUTFIT DETAILS –
WHITE SNEAKERS | Beflamboyant use code HARMFREEFASHION for 10% off
PURSE | Sans Beast (current styles by Sans Beast)
BELT | Peta + Jain (current styles by Peta + Jain)
Trench Coat Outfit Idea #3 | Scandinavian Cool-Girl
My hunt for the quintessential trench coat finally ended once I thrifted this vintage trench. Classic in shape, color, and design, it’s the perfect piece to elevate a simple jeans and blouse look. Also, the exaggerated shoulders and oversized fit means it can easily be mistaken for a new designer style rather than the vintage piece that it is.
A baby pink bodysuit styled with vintage acid-wash jeans, striped socks, and navy loafers were just the thing to level up this khaki and baby pink New York Yankees baseball cap and stereotypical trench.
As I mentioned in a previous post, baseball hats are the “it” accessory of the season and given their abundance at second-hand shops, they are an easy item to score on the used market.
While they can be styled with so many looks, I especially love how they pair with a trench coat and loafers. This cap also injected some New York vibes into a European look. 🧢
– OUTFIT DETAILS –
NAVY LOAFERS | By Blanch (similar by Matt & Nat)
PURSE | Sans Beast (current styles by Sans Beast)
SUNGLASSES | Max Mara (current styles by Max Mara)
Final Thoughts
No wardrobe is complete without a timeless trench and as the thrifted trenches throughout this post should have proven, if you search with determination you’re sure to find a classic piece within the preloved realm.
Online platforms such as eBay, Depop, and shopgoodwill.com (if you’re living in the USA) are rich with preloved pickings. Once you’ve narrowed down the specific style you’re after, your dream piece may only be a few clicks away. I hope this post offered you some styling inspiration for the trench in your closet or the one on your wishlist.
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Michelle Rothenburger
Michelle Rothenburger is a vegan fashion blogger whose work has been featured in such publications as Marie Claire, InStyle, Woman & Home, and Vilda. Find out more by reading Michelle’s full story (from bullied to fashion influencer) and feel free to send her a personal message.