A Trench coat is undoubtedly one of the most classic and versatile styles of outerwear.

While some types of coat make a brief comeback every few years (think luxe puffa jackets circa 2016), the trench coat remains a firm wardrobe favourite.

Since their creation in the 1850s, it’s safe to say these coats have been continually en-vogue.

Perfect in the summer and easy in the winter, they’re a fantastic investment for year-round style. From long military-styles to belted wool coats, there’s a style and design of trench for every woman.

Here are a few reasons why they’re the must-have accessory to reach for season after season:

Perfect for transitional dressing

In between seasons, we all dread tricky transitional dressing. It can be hard to know what to wear at the best of times, let alone when the weather is all over the place – warm one minute and cold the next.

Cue the trench coat.

Perfect over a summer dress, winter knitwear, an all-in-one, a casual outfit, a formal one, and so on and so on… The possibilities are truly endless.

If you’re extra clever, find one that’s waterproof so you can rely on it come rain or shine. Et voila – your year-round coat is sorted, just like that.

A flattering style for all shapes and sizes

It’s not often you find a flattering “fits all” coat for the masses. But in our eyes, a trench coat can do no wrong.

Perfect for slim frames and curvier women too, each trench coat is usually accompanied with a handy belt to cinch in the waist and accentuate silhouettes in all the right places.

Plus, because of their long length, trench coats often elongate the body, making you look taller than you really are. Pair it with some killer heels and you’re practically catwalk ready.

Effortlessly easy to wear

Did we mention how easy these are to wear?

Under a casual ensemble, they instantly elevate any outfit thanks to their sleek tailoring, giving you the illusion that you put real effort into your outfit when in actual fact, you’ve been wearing the same outfit three days running.

Fail-safe colours you can enjoy year-round include beige, khaki and black, though bolder hues like pink, red and orange will pack a real punch.

Sold? Great. Here are some of our favourite trench coats, available at BrandAlley:

1. No. Eleven Military Coat, 2. Mango Trench Coat, 3. Whistles Beige Imra Trench Coat   4. Light Blue Hunter Trench Coat

Words: Sherri Andrew