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Why It's Good:
The trenchcoat, long a staple of any spring wardrobe, needn't be boring and bland. After all, Faye Dunaway in Bonnie & Clyde and Jane Fonda in Klute both wore it to iconic perfection. Now you can mix it up with these fresh new styles—cropped-length with pants, or full-length with pencil skirts and short dresses. Oversized shades and a chic ponytail complete the timeless picture.
Why It's Green:
The Battalion's trench is made of bamboo, a rapidly renewable and thus sustainable natural resource; Amana's is made of 100% organic cotton, which is grown without the use of toxic pesticides and fertilizers—plus the designers are committed to fair labor practices; FIN's is made from 100% organic cotton; and Nau's is made of 100% recycled, post-consumer polyester waste and it's additionally recyclable.
Where To Get It:
Click on the designer's names above for a direct link to the coat.
It's Almost Spring—Get Trenched!
Running errands yesterday, I got caught in a torrential downpour, my down parka soaked to its fluffy core. Weighted down by groceries and the saggy coat, I dearly wished for my trusty trenchcoat. It was one of those season-defining moments—along with the daylight savings change and the appearance of the first red buds on the branches outside my window, I realized: Winter is over. Time to put away the bulky downs and heavy wools and slip into something trim and light: the trenchcoat. Smart, sexy, always in style...what more in fashion versatility could you ask for? And talk about mileage—my favorite, a vintage 60s beige number with wide lapels and gilt-edged, cream buttons, is as in style now as it was when Mom wore it over her hip-huggers. Trends come and go, but this is one fashion investment that pays back in yearly style dividends. Here, our picks for:
Classic Twist: In The Battalion's nude Goldie trench ($340), you'll glide from office to high-powered luncheon with a certain Grace Kelly-meets-Samantha Jones effortless, yet coolly edgy, ease. Three-quarter-length sleeves and faux-snakeskin piping kick up the Asphalt Jungle-Explorer vibe.
Full Style Ahead: What’s a sailor's secret? Crisp white cotton, freshly ironed. In Amana's cropped, snow-white May trench (about $270), you'll shine like a beacon amid a sea of boring black. Dramatic lapels and a side-cinched belt let you clip through the crowd in standout style. Cute with slim-leg dark denim jeans and red patent flats. Or, show-off those newly-freed, bare gams in pencil or mini skirts under FIN's longer, equally bright white trench ($448; available on Juno and Jove on March 20th).
Stormy Weather: Reach for this when it's raining hippos and horses. Nau's Chrysallis convertible coverup ($198) pulls a Houdini just when you need it, with on-or-off, removable sleeves (it's a raincoat! it's a vest!) and multiple drawstring cords so you can adjust the length and fit to suit the weather—as well as your outfit. Mod-chic details like an empire waist and ruched neckline take the blah out of traditional rainy-day gear, but don't be fooled—this baby is fierce when it comes to wind and wet. Ultra-versatile style lets you wear this over anything.—Elizabeth McMullen
