Casual Swing Trench Coat
Are you a fan of trench coats? I’ve worn the same long black one for over 25 years. It was costly when I bought it but it’s begun to look sad and tired so I need to retire it. I want to replace it with a paler version so I’m trying a few on for size. Today I’m styling a single-breasted swing trench coat in a soft, cool-toned khaki.
I found this one at Loft and think it holds plenty of potential. They also make it in navy…which I love…but I’m hoping for an even lighter color.
It has clean lines, devoid of the bells and whistles that many classic trench coats have. There are no front gun flaps, epaulettes, back flaps, or D-rings on the sleeve straps so it has a feminine vibe that appeals to me. It does have front welt pockets and a back vent which I always love on any coat.
The swing shape means this polished coat swishes as you walk. I don’t know about you, but I love things that swish:) It has a nice generous collar you can pop up to keep the wind out, or just for attitude. This day, I popped it for the wind, but I usually do it for the attitude.
BTW – Here’s How to Pop a Collar and Keep it Up
This coat is machine washable, 100% cotton, sized from XXS-XXL. I’m wearing a small. Loft makes many of their garments in petite, but not this coat. Because I have a long torso, the belt is at the right place for me but the sleeves had to be folded under an inch. Since there’s no detailing at the very bottom of the sleeve, it’s easy to hem.
I’m wearing it over a cashmere sweater you first saw me wearing here. I love these sweaters! The price was great to start with…but it’s now marked down to 50% off. And if camel isn’t your thing, they still have some other colors left.
The sweater and coat go so well with my favorite scarf, I couldn’t resist wearing it again:) I told you you’d get tired of seeing me wear this. It comes in multiple sizes. Mine is the large 135cm x 135cm wool and silk version.
My leopard belt and the Aligator texture of my bag add a fun pop of texture to this neutral look. The weave on my shoes adds even more. I went old school matching my handbag and shoes. Even the hardware on my belt, shoes, bag, and earrings match. I don’t do it often but when I do, it just feels right. It’s also a foolproof way to accessorize.
I have these shoes in black, without the hardware, and have worn them into the ground! These brown ones are almost sold out, so here they are without the horse bit. They are one of the softest leather you’ll ever put on your feet and so comfy.
SHOP THE LOOK
The wind wreaked havoc on my hair while we were grabbing these pictures yesterday. Our weather has been insane! What you also may notice is the swelling I got from the V-beam procedure last week. I’m just barely able to cover the purple marks from where they zapped my broken capillaries, but the swelling is harder to cover:)
Are you a fan of trench coats?
I like the styling of this trench coat, without so many of the fussy details. But, years ago when both my husband and I had lighter colored trenchcoats, we found we just couldn’t keep them clean. So black it is for us!
My black one has been all over the world with me and never shows dirt:)
I like the whole look! Very classy. I have that same handbag, it has become my favorite.
I love trench coats and own two. One in camel and one in a medium blue. Neither have a belt which is fine with me because I have a short torso with long legs. My camel is George and does have toggle buttons but I love the deep pockets so I compromised. My blue is London Fog and 3/4 length and no details but a beautiful lining. Still looks good after many years. I love the snaps and inside pockets.
Several years ago my husband bought me a classic double breasted trench coat at Brooks Brothers. Unfortunately, I found it hard to wear – too bulky (especially with the warm zip out lining), too straight, and the belt isn’t long enough. Your trench looks very wearable – and great on you. But I especially like your accessories: the earrings are beautiful and the scarf is gorgeous – definitely worth saving up for!
It’s 100% cotton? Is it treated to be wrinkle-free?
Great looking never goes out of style, classic!!!!!!
I have never liked trench coats. The double breasted buttons usually look like headlights over the girls. The epaulettes at the shoulders. buckles at the wrist, and all the other details are too fussy. I like the simplicity of this coat and would try it in navy. This color washes me out. Can it be easily worn without the belt?
Yes, You would need to remove the belt loops and easily wear it sans belt
Wow, I think you look stunning. That elegant scarf and Dean Davidson earrings make your outfit. I love your look. You wear it well.
You look fantastic in this outfit and don’t worry about what shows on your face, your smile stands out beyond anything else. I love the ideas you offer and the way you put outfits together. I’m about the same skin tone and hair color so this is very helpful to me. Too cold here to do anything but bundle up….will try these ideas once we get out of the deep freeze. Take care!!
Stay warm, Violet
I agree with a prior comment that you could wear more color.
Enjoy your blog.
I do love color, but I’m most comfortable in neutrals which you will see me in as well:)
I feel like I’ve exhausted every positive adjective to describe your featured looks! This mix of neutrals and subtle accessories compliment your natural beauty. The movement of the coat and add the soft, style and texture of your hair style, it all creates a more youthful look.
I want to look put together but not over done. This is a lesson in how to do that. For me, I still need more saturated color but am willing to try the power of neutrals also. I haven’t wore a trench coat for some years now. I may need to revisit this option.
I feel like I’m waking up in 2021 after a long winters nap. I am enjoying the inspiration in your blogs and look forward many more! Thank You!
You’re so sweet, Jan. Thank you. We are all ready to get up and at it in 2021.
I love the style but feel the colour washes you out a bit. I think you would look beautiful in a coral or medium pastel blue or turquoise. I know the ecru is a versatile neutral but I’m rethinking what is actually neutral for myself.
It is very soft. I think my normal makeup might have helped too. I wasn’t wearing eyeliner which I always wear:)
Those Sabina Savage scarves are just fabulous….wonderful scarf tying videos also on the sight!
Love this trench! I really like the light color of yours. I bought a sort of olive green similar one on-line and on sale from Banana Republic outlet and am looking forward to wearing it once the temps get a little warmer. I too like the lack of pockets, buttons and tabs for a change..
I do love Olive. It’s really a wonderful neutral for trench coats, etc.
I have never seen you look so attractive. Everything about this outfit complements you and emphasizes your confident, elegantly casual but classic style. The colors make you glow.
First time I have commented—-I hope to encourage you to explore similar outfits to share.
Thanks so much, Connie. I love to experiment so I will share more.
Yes, still have mine as well. Its charcoal grey with raglan sleeves. And a zip- in liner for colder winter days! It looked smashing with tailored work pants and boots. Would dress it up with bright woolen plaid scarves tucked inside the lapel area and a Roaring 20’s style hat to keep my ears warm. Still feel more comfortable in darker fabrics than lighter shades. With your skin tones the lighter colours suit you well…
Yesterday I went the beauty salon, showed your photo of your hair and my stylist did a pretty awesome job of matching it. I too, have fine , thin hair that is also straight as a board hair. Love the trench coat and the sweater is on my wish list. Thank you
That’s so good to hear! I’m glad you have a great hairdresser
I love your “wind-blown” hair look….it is youthful and fun…and I love the neutral colors as well.
Love your new modern trench and neutrals all around! Very classy. The scarf on camel looks so lovely with your skin and hair tone too.
Must look into neutrals!
Happy Thursday…..
Happy Thursday, Paulette xx
I love the color, especially on you, and everything about it. You mention hemming – how much would you hem it? I feel like it looks too long on you, especially because you don’t wear heels. I personally like a trench with a pop of color AND a hood is a must-have, plus feel this light of a color would show more dirt. I’m not good with hanging on to umbrellas and we have a lot of rain and wind here in Northeast Ohio, so I seldom buy a coat without a hood. By the way, your the wind-swept hair looks good on you. That’s another reason why I like a hood – my hair would look like a rat’s nest! Thanks for the info on popping a collar – they never stay up for me and I can’t wait to try. As always, great style nuggets in your posts.
I would hem it to just below my knee.