The best trench coats for women in 2026

Best overall: Lands' End Squall Waterproof Modern Trench Raincoat

Pros: Waterproof, windproof, classic design, fully-lined

Cons: No hood, only comes in two colors

This Lands' End trench coat is one of those rare pieces that perfectly blend timeless style with true functionality. It's routinely recognized as one of the best trench coats out there for good reason.

At first glance, it has all the hallmarks of a classic trench: a double-breasted front, shoulder epaulettes, and a waist tie that cinches in nicely. But what sets it apart is its performance. Unlike most trenches, it's fully waterproof and windproof, with sealed seams that actually keep you dry in the rain. The fabric feels soft to the touch — not stiff or crinkly like a typical raincoat — and it fits true to size with just enough room for layering.

The lining adds light warmth without making it bulky, so it's perfect for transitional weather or mild winters. I especially love how it manages to feel polished enough for the office but still practical for running errands on a wet day. Everyone should have a classic trench in their wardrobe, and if you're only buying one, this is the one to get. It's everything a trench coat should be, with the bonus of real protection from the elements.

Best oversized: Sézane Clyde Coat

Pros: Water-repellent, contrast check lining

Cons: Expensive

The Sézane Clyde Coat might be my personal favorite trench coat I tested, just narrowly missing the best overall spot because of its higher price and non-traditional silhouette. Still, it's one of those splurge pieces that immediately feels worth it. The cotton-viscose blend fabric is OEKO-TEX certified, soft right out of the box, and drapes beautifully. It's cozy without being heavy. I can tell this is a coat I'll be wearing and loving for years.

Sézane, the chic French label behind the design, is known for timeless, high-quality pieces that nail that effortless Parisian aesthetic. This coat captures that vibe perfectly: it's relaxed yet refined, stylish without trying too hard. The oversized fit feels modern and comfortable, with ample room to layer bulky sweaters underneath without appearing boxy.

I also love the thoughtful details, like the contrast check lining, which adds an elevated touch when I cuff the sleeves to show it off. The absence of a belt gives it a minimalist, fashion-forward edge, though it does mean you lose a bit of wind protection on colder days.

Best Amazon: Orolay Single-Breasted Hudson Trench

Pros: Simple silhouette, affordable, wide color variety

Cons: Runs small, especially in the chest and shoulders

This Orolay Hudson Trench is one of the most affordable options on this list that still delivers on style and performance. Priced under $100, it stands out for offering thoughtful design details you don't usually see at this price point.

It comes in six colors and sticks to a classic trench silhouette, with a single-breasted front, rear yoke, and a split hem that makes it easier to move in. It has deep pockets in , and the overall look feels polished enough to rival more expensive styles, including this minimalist option from quiet-luxury brand Jenni Kayne.

The thin fabric is water-repellent and wind-resistant, so you can rely on this trench in light mists and mild breezes. While it's billed as wrinkle-resistant, that claim is mixed in practice. Some reviewers say it travels well, but others note it benefits from a quick steam once unpacked.

Best for travel: Athleta Stellar Trench

Pros: wrinkle-resistant, UPF 40+, lightweight, stretchy, comes in 3 lengths

Cons: not waterproof, only comes in black

When you think about the best travel jackets, the word "trench" doesn't exactly come to mind. The longer silhouettes can often be bulky, stiff, or prone to wrinkling — making them an unlikely choice for travel or tossing in a tote.

The Athleta Stellar Trench is none of these things. Like all of my favorite Athleta work pants, it's made from a fabric that's equal parts substantial, stretchy, and breathable. The coat is so comfy, it drapes more like a robe than a jacket. I've even used it as a blanket to take a nap on a chilly bus!

Still, the look remains luxe and elevated. It's polished enough for work, but practical enough to toss in your tote without a second thought. It folds or rolls easily and resists wrinkles almost completely. I've even been reaching for it on cooler, rainy summer days, thanks to a ventilated mesh panel on the back that keeps things breathable. Mine has a pretty roomy fit, which adds to the comfort and airflow, but you could easily size down if you prefer a more tailored look.

Best cropped: Tuckernuck Drew Short Trench

Pros: Versatile styling options, on-trend silhouette, monogram optional

Cons: Hand wash only, not weatherproof

The cropped trench is one of the most sought-after pieces this spring. We tested Tuckernuck's Winston Trench before it ran out of stock and found the sizing to be plus-size friendly. Its Drew Short Trench has a similarly short and boxy fit, with all the trappings of your classic trench. The crisp lapels and button plackets give it a more tailored edge than any windbreaker or light puffer jacket you'd typically reach for during the transitional weather season.

Being partial to natural textiles, it's also nice to see a trench made f 100% cotton. It has a light and breathable feel, but if you ever want to seal out more air, you can cinch the sleeves with the button tabs around the cuffs. This swingy, oversized layering staple comes in olive, black, camel suede, or the classic khaki.

Best vegan leather: Babaton Tabloid Trench Coat in Unreal Leather

Pros: more affordable than genuine leather, soft fabric, oversized fit

Cons: select sizes/colors sell out quickly

A leather trench coat is one of those luxury items I had written off, thanks to its steep cost. That is, until I came across the Babaton Tabloid Trench Coat from Aritzia, which offers a much more reasonable price tag thanks to its 100% polyurethane vegan leather. That doesn't mean it feels cheap, though: The material is so soft and buttery that it feels just like my favorite broken-in genuine leather jacket. I own the cognac hue, and I've received numerous compliments on it. In fact, it remains one of the best dress coats we've tested, and I routinely wear it to evening events.

The fit of this coat is generous, and the sleeves are long. I'm tall, so for me, the fit looked intentionally oversized, but shorter people may prefer to size down for a better fit. I appreciate that the roominess allows me to wear this coat over heavy sweaters, especially since this is a mid-weight coat that could benefit from layering on the coldest days.

Best petite: Petite Studio Hagar Trench Coat

Pros: Perfect petite fit, classic style

Cons: Too thin to wear in the cold, not waterproof

I'm 5-foot-2, so I've spent a lot of time searching for coats that don't make me look like I'm drowning. Most trenches I've tried require lots of little adjustments — rolling up the cuffs, sizing down, adding a belt for shape, etc. But I've been a longtime fan of Petite Studio, so I was eager to try the brand's take on a trench.

The Hagar Trench Coat has a classic, Burberry-esque aesthetic. But crucially, the A-line silhouette hits exactly where it's supposed to on a petite body. The belt falls at my natural waist, and the fabric drapes perfectly. Plus, the sleeves fall just below my wrist, not past it, and feature brown corduroy cuffs that add visual interest.

It's the perfect fall coat for days when the temperature is 50 degrees outside and you don't have to bundle up. But it's relatively thin and made of cotton, so it's not the best coat for providing warmth or protecting you from wet weather. — Samantha Crozier, style editor, Business Insider Reviews

Best water-repellent: Woolrich Waxed Trench Coat

Pros: Stylish, wind-resistant, zipper and snap fastening, deep pockets

Cons: Runs large and long

The Woolrich Waxed Trench Coat is crafted from a blend of waxed cotton and nylon, offering both water-repellency and wind resistance. While technically not 100% waterproof, it kept me perfectly dry under my umbrella during a spring downpour in New York.

Considering most city dwellers brave the rain with an umbrella overhead, this jacket is water-resistant enough to keep you dry on a typical rainy day while you're between shops, cabs, or the subway. Its rear slit has a snap closure for when you need to keep extra slush out, and the two generous front pockets have a hidden side opening. This raincoat lacks a hood, but that's part of what keeps the silhouette so clean.

It's classically elegant. Woolrich is a heritage brand renowned for crafting exceptionally high-quality outerwear in classic silhouettes that'll last for decades — and this trench is a testament to the brand's name. The waxed outer has a sleek and clean aesthetic. The more technical material is contrasted by rib-knit velvet wrist cuffs and collar for a refined touch. The jacket is designed with two closure options: a two-way zipper for full coverage and hidden snap buttons for quick security. The outside of the full-length flap has faux buttons for an added touch of smart aesthetic.

Not only is this rain jacket quite long, but it also runs a bit large. For reference, I am 5'5" and typically a Large in jackets. The Waxed Trench I'm pictured in above is a Small and hits just below mid-shin. Sizes do run down to an XXS, but it would likely be floor-length on anyone under 5'2". —Rachael Schultz, freelance style writer, Business Insider Reviews

Best wool: Quince Italian Wool Double-Breasted Slouch Coat

Pros: Warm, comes in 6 colors, reasonable price

Cons: Limited size range, loose fit lets in wind

Besides the perfectly oversized fit, the thing I love most about the Quince Italian Wool Double-Breasted Slouch Coat is that it's lined on the inside for added warmth. Many slouch coats are made without a lining because the lack of added structure allows the wool to drape more loosely. While that may give you a slightly more cozy silhouette, it means you miss out on any real insulation. The lining here gives the coat just enough structure to feel sophisticated and clean, but clever details like a shoulder seam that continues down the arm still gives it an almost cape-like, drop-shoulder fit.

I would personally recommend opting for the black color over the tan. While the tan might look nice in online photos, I can tell that the color is pretty flat, which means it won't look quite as elegant in person. — Sally Kaplan, executive editor, Business Insider Reviews

Best suede: Tanya Taylor Suede Clayton Coat

Pros: Beautiful heavyweight suede, lots of pocket space

Cons: Not weatherproof

"I've struggled to find the perfect trench coat because I'm worried the classic khaki kind will make look like McGruff the Crime Dog. This suede trench from Tanya Taylor instead has a very cool, laid back '70s vibe to it, and I inevitably receive compliments on my outfit each time I wear it (even if I have on a sweatsuit underneath).

A comfortable, slouchy long coat is an outfit in itself. The Tanya Taylor Suede Clayton Coat has a roomy fit, which allows me to layer multiple sweaters underneath. The rich chocolate color is very saturated and reads as brown, even in low lighting.

Made with a thick goat leather suede, this soft material drapes beautifully, and (most importantly) keeps me warm. The one drawback is that I'll only wear it if the forecast looks clear. The material is so luxurious that I don't dare get it wet. I'll still travel with it on because it has four huge pockets and feels like a cozy blanket when I'm on a long train ride." — Gabrielle Chase, senior associate style editor, Insider Reviews

Best sherpa: UGG Gertrude Teddy

Pros: Super warm, stylish

Cons: Dry clean only, not great for rain

This coat is so cute and cozy, and I love that it fits pretty much any occasion — from a fancy holiday party to a weekend brunch. Plus, the Gertrude Long Teddy Coat is thick and warm, so perfect for the true dead of winter.

I'm 5'11" and it easily stretches down to my knees, so with winter boots and a hat I feel truly bundled from head to toe. I love that it's available in plus sizes. I'm normally a 2X but sized up to a 3X so I'd have plenty of room for extra layers. It's very roomy, but still has a tailored shape to it that I find is lacking in most teddy bear coats.

The only thing to be mindful of is the bright white color, which I've found is fundamentally incompatible with life in dirty downtown Manhattan (and life with a black cat that is very intrigued by any sherpa-like fabric), but I couldn't resist the snowy white color for winter, and I love the contrast it adds against my black hair.

It's dry-clean only, and I know I'll have to send it out for cleaning at least once during the season to keep it looking nice. I also think it would be a lovely choice for a bride looking for a winter wedding coat. — Lauren Savoie, former deputy executive editor, Business Insider Reviews

Most trendy: Hutch Stasia Coat

Pros: Elevated statement look, fully lined for added warmth

Cons: Spot clean only, not rain-safe, expensive

Tapping into the trends of suede and mixed media in a single look, this modern trench coat puts a fashion-forward spin on the classic silhouette. The faux suede and faux leather combo gives the Hutch Stasia Coat a contemporary, high-end feel that instantly elevates any outfit. Still, the neutral colorway makes it easy to wear with a variety of outfits in practically any setting.

I wore it out to dinner one evening and got a compliment before I even made it to the table. The color-blocked design makes it stand out in a sea of traditional trenches, while the collared neck, double-breasted buttons, and belted waist keep it polished. It's fully lined and hits around mid-calf (46.5 inches from shoulder to hem), giving it that dramatic maxi look without feeling overly heavy.

It's worth noting that this coat isn't designed for rainy weather, as the suede fabric won't hold up well in a downpour. And while the tie belt looks great cinched, it can slip out of the loops pretty easily when left untied, due to the smooth texture of the material.

Best hooded: Lolë Alizé Rain Trench Coat

Pros: Waterproof, fully seam sealed, roll-away hood, hidden zip pockets, machine washable on delicate setting

Cons: Velcro "snaps" may snag clothing, popular sizes and colors sell out quickly

The Lolë Alizé Rain Trench Coat was made for people who actually deal with unpredictable weather but don't want to give up on looking put together. It's constructed from a fully seam-sealed, waterproof 10K fabric with a durable water-repellent coating. The hood rolls away neatly into the collar, which I love for maintaining a clean silhouette when the forecast clears up. This trench is also breathable and quick-drying, so it never feels stuffy even when it's humid out. The material has a soft, slightly structured feel.

There's also a two-way zipper and hidden snaps for a streamlined front, plus a removable tie belt if you want a more cinched shape. Another bonus: It's made from recycled fibers that are Global Recycled Standard certified and sourced without harmful chemicals.

My one complaint, though, is the velcro closure. When I wore this jacket open over a thin sweater, the Velcro "snaps" snagged the fabric.

Best silk: Lilysilk Oversized Long Coat

Pros: Lightweight, roomy fit, high-quality silk

Cons: Expensive, not weather-resistant

For anyone leaning into the quiet luxury trend, the Lilysilk Oversized Long Coat delivers the look effortlessly. It's one of the most luxe-feeling trench-style coats I tested, made from heavy momme silk crepe with a smooth, subtly textured finish and an elegant sheen. From the first wear, it felt lightweight yet indulgent — the kind of coat that instantly elevates even jeans and a tee.

The oversized fit adds to its appeal. It drapes beautifully and moves with you, more like a robe than a structured trench, creating a fluid, relaxed silhouette that feels modern and refined. The silk fabric is breathable, wrinkle-resistant, and surprisingly durable for something so delicate-looking. I also love the minimalist design (no fussy buttons or zippers), which keeps the spotlight on the fabric's rich texture and natural luster, though it does detract from the warmth.

That said, this one's more about aesthetic than function. It's a definite splurge and not built for bad weather. Still, it's a stunner for layering on mild days or throwing over a sleek outfit for dinner.

Other trench coats I tested

Everlane The Modern Trench Coat ($288): With a clean, classic silhouette featuring a double-breasted front, tie waist, and a full back storm flat, this trench coat makes a timeless, high-quality wardrobe staple. Though the 100% organic cotton fabric feels great, on the black colorway I tested, it was practically a lint magnet. It was quickly covered in fuzz, which detracted from the polish.

Bernardo Hawthorne 3-in-1 Cape Trench Coat ($230): This trench-poncho hybrid has nifty features like a detachable hood, water-repellent fabric, and a waist belt. Though the caped design makes it a statement look, it added fashion more than function, and it became a hassle on very windy days.

Tuckernuck Winston Jacket (now sold out): We loved this reversible plus-size friendly trench, which fit up to a size 24 with a tailored silhouette and lightweight crepe fabric.