Of all the garments with military heritage, none have aged with quite the same quiet elegance as the trench coat. Functional, flattering, and unfailingly British, it has moved from muddy fields to metropolitan pavements with remarkable ease. More than a century on from its introduction, it remains one of the few pieces of outerwear that genuinely transcends trend.
At Gloverall, we’ve taken this history and shaped it into something distinctly modern — the Darcy Trench Coat. A lightweight, showerproof, and eminently wearable take on a classic, the Darcy is our answer to timeless dressing. But how does one wear such an iconic silhouette without slipping into costume territory? And how do you style it across seasons, body types, and dress codes?
Read on for a no-fuss guide to wering the trench coat well — with real-life advice for sizing, layering, and styling across the board.
Sizing and Fit: Finding Your Trench Coat Sweet Spot
A trench coat should always work with your wardrobe, not against it. That means finding a fit that’s versatile enough to handle both lightweight dresses and chunky knits. For most people, that means taking your regular size or going up one — especially if you often wear tailoring or heavier layers underneath.
When trying on your Darcy Trench, reach for a blazer or a thick jumper to test the fit. The coat should sit comfortably across the shoulders, close neatly at the waist if belted, and allow for easy movement. The result? Effortless layering without losing the clean lines the trench coat is known for.
For the Petite: Wearing the Trench Without Being Swallowed Whole
There’s an old (and slightly tired) rule that says long coats and short frames don’t mix. But in reality, the vertical lines of a trench coat can be surprisingly flattering, adding the illusion of length without overwhelming your shape — as long as the hem sits somewhere between just above the knee and mid-calf.
The Darcy’s tailored cut makes it a strong option for petite wearers, especially when paired with high-waisted trousers or dresses that elongate the silhouette further. Add a slight heel if you want to really lean into the lengthening effect.
How Long Should a Trench Coat Be?
As a rule of thumb: never shorter than above the knee. Any higher, and you lose the practical elegance that defines a true trench. The Darcy falls at a universally flattering length — long enough to provide full coverage in a downpour, short enough to wear in motion. Think of it as a full stop at the end of an outfit.
How to Tie the Belt
There are three accepted ways to belt a trench coat, each with its own mood:
1. Buckle and cinch: The classic. Structured, smart, and perfect for a drizzly commute or when you want everything to feel just-so.
2. Knot at the waist: Skip the buckle entirely and tie a loose knot. It reads relaxed but still intentional — like you didn’t spend more than 30 seconds getting ready (even if you did).
3. Tie at the back: Belt the coat behind you in a bow or simple knot to keep it open while defining the waist from behind. Ideal in warmer weather, or when you want your outfit to do more of the talking.
Seasonal Styling: Making the Trench Coat Work All Year
Spring: Light Layers, Lighter Mood
Spring and trench coats go hand in hand. The Darcy is light enough to drape over the shoulders on mild days and sturdy enough to battle spring showers. Try wearing it open with the belt tied at the back, over a floral dress or wide-leg trousers. Roll the sleeves a touch, add a scarf, and you’ve got an ensemble that’s polished without feeling precious.
Summer: Keep It Cool (Literally and Aesthetically)
In the warmer months, opt for breezy fabrics and neutral tones. The Darcy’s showerproof finish makes it ideal for unpredictable British summers, while its light cotton blend keeps things breathable. Pair it with linen trousers, a white tee, or a flowing midi dress. We’d skip shorts, though — the proportion clash is hard to finesse.
Autumn & Winter: The Art of the Layer
When the temperature drops, treat your trench as a top layer over warmer pieces — think rollnecks, wool skirts, or a well-cut suit. Use the belt to cinch in the extra bulk and keep the silhouette refined. A pair of leather boots and the right bag will take the look from errand-running to editorial.
Styling Tips: Everyday Elegance, Effortlessly Done
Trench + Jeans = Unfussy Chic
This is a classic for good reason. The clean shape of the Darcy works especially well with slim or straight-leg denim. Add a crisp shirt, a Breton stripe, or even just your favourite white tee. Finish with loafers, trainers or heels, depending on where you’re headed.
Trench + Dresses = Instant Polish
Whether it’s a midi dress for work or something slinkier for evening, the Darcy adds structure without stealing focus. For more formal settings, keep things monochrome or tonal. For weekend wear, introduce a bit of print or colour underneath — the neutral base of the trench will ground it all.