The trench coat is a style classic that has endured the test of time, with its origins dating back to WWI, when it was worn by British and French soldiers. Today, we know it as the luxury item made famous by British brands such as Burberry and Aquascutum. 

For Autumn / winter 2018, the wardrobe icon is having a cool overhaul from the likes of McQueen, Loewe and Céline, who, by playing around with new fabrics, colours and cuts, have made it fashion’s ‘must-have’ piece of the season. 

The popularity of the trench isn’t just hearsay: this is fashion fact. Liberty in London has increased its stocks of trench coats by a whopping 66% this spring versus last year, in order to meet the growing demand. Alexandra Gordon, womenswear buyer at Liberty, says, “Although not ground-breaking, the classic trench was reinvented in different silhouettes and colours this season, making it a new and must-have addition to your wardrobe”. And, with increased popularity comes an abundance of high-street options at accessible price points for us to peruse (we may or may not have already nabbed two). 

From bright colours to vinyl finishes, and every style imaginable in between, it’s a matter of picking the perfect trench for you this season. Here are six must-have trench coats to shop now. 

Pink trench coat, £69.99, Zara

Red patent trench coat, £82, Find

Black trench coat, £119.99, H&M Studio Collection

Grey checked trench coat, £70, River Island

Reversible two-tone trench coat, £420, Maje at Net-A-Porter

Short belted trench coat, £675, Isabel Marant at Liberty

Images: Frankiewicz & Rozniata for Stylist Magazine