Wardrobe Staple #1: The Trench Coat

Trench coats are widely known as a wardrobe staple. The coats were developed during WWI by Burberry and were worn by officers in the British army during inclement weather. And it was during the war that Burberry actually made these coats for women as well. After the war, they returned home and continued to wear these coats due to their versatility. Today, that coat is made for both genders in varying styles - however, the classic trench is usually in a tan, black, or khaki colored fabric and is double breasted. I love a trench coat for the instant 'put-together'-ness you have when you throw one on as outerwear. When I think of trench coats, I instantly think of the last scene in Breakfast At Tiffany's with Audrey Hepburn's trench. 

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Springs in Chicago are a rainy event. This week is full of thunderstorms, and I've pulled out and will rely on my trench coat to keep me both warm and dry. First and foremost, a coat needs to be functional. In this case, waterproof and somewhat windproof. The coats here are all waterproof, and I've only tested the second option to be windproof. 

I prefer the shorter length trench coat over the longer one - one that hits the upper thigh. I find that it's easier to move around in and more versatile - appropriate in formal situations because of the trench style, and appropriate for more casual situations because of the length. Finally, the last requirement is a hood to keep the rain out. I can't tell you how many times I've been saved by wearing a trench coat when I've forgotten to bring an umbrella that day.

Do you have a trench in your closet? I'd love to hear in the comments.