THE TRENCH CONNECTION
5 ways with a Burberry classic
On the hunt for the perfect transitional coat? For over a century, the Brit label Burberry has perfected its iconic trench into a true fashion hero with more staying power than an Energizer battery. If you don’t already own one, then you need to invest, and fast. There’s no harder working, more versatile cover star.
The original trench may have been designed with practicality in mind to protect army officers from wind and rain, but today, fashion is just as important as function. For Autumn/Winter 17, that means trenches with flared cuts, draping and exaggerated cuffs in an assortment of colours. See how you can get the most out of yours – from an office commute cover-up to a weekend statement piece and evening cloak.
look 01.Weekend casual
Rock a tough girl look by scrunching sleeves up for an unstudied vibe, revealing a cool leather wristband or masculine watch. Tie the coat’s belt behind into a loose knot to expose a rocking T-shirt and pair with on-trend frayed hem jeans.
look 02.Evening out
Want to show off your dress whilst still accentuating your waistline? Leave coat buttons undone and tie the belt into a knot around the waist for definition, revealing a ribbon of printed fabric underneath (always avoid threading the belt through the buckle as it looks too perfected). The angular sharpness of the trench collar and hem deconstruct the prettiness of a floral print, adding a sophisticated edge. Top off with heeled sandals exposing polished toes to balance the shoulder to below the knee coverage for a heightened mood.
look 03.work lunch
Wear a statement necklace over the the collar and epaulettes and loosely tie the belt up at the back (the necklace should be the core focus). Break up the black pants/black jacket monochrome look with a light coloured round neck top to create contrast. Avoid a button-down or open shirt as both with create a neckline that is too busy with the jewellery piece. Team with a small cross-body bag to throw off a perfectly balanced look.
look 04.cocktail party
Temper the sex appeal of a lace dress with an urban classic. Drape the coat over your shoulders like a cape with the belt tied at the back to create a fluid silhouette and expose more of what’s underneath. Add a Midas touch with a pair of statement earrings to make a 24-carat impact all night.
look 05 . freelance meeting
Tie the belt in an effortless knot behind the coat for a less stitched-up look. Button your business-style shirt to the collar and leave untucked for casual flair over slim-fit jeans or pants. Accessorise with a large leather tote to keep the tone creative and practical – they’re ideal for laptops yet don’t shriek ‘work.’ Leather sneakers complete the comfortable, yet focused attitude.
TIPS & TRICKS - The long and short of it:
Tall women are better suited to trench coats below the knee;
Those with full busts should avoid wearing double-breasted trench coats;
Women of shorter stature should wear trench coats that sit above the knee to reveal more leg below the hemline.
If wearing longer coats, high heels work well to lengthen your silhouette.