As the temperatures begin to dip, a whole new set of seasonal heroes are making their way into the spotlight. Of all the new-season buys to get excited about—and there are a lot—two items, in particular, have been the talk of the Who What Wear team lately: trench coats and loafers. And they just so happen to look incredibly chic when styled together.
Their shared timelessness and versatility make them logical companions; both re-emerge as autumnal wardrobe mainstays year after year, and both add instant polish to every outfit—precisely the trait I love most in clothing. In tandem, then, you can easily achieve double the polish. That's the kind of math I can get on board with.
And I'm not the only one who feels so strongly about this classic combination. Already, a quick scroll through Instagram proves the popularity of trench coats and loafers as the combo du jour. It's like all the fashion enthusiasts of the world have united in their love for these trend-defying staples, and I'm inviting you to join in.
Below, you'll find a variety of simple trench-coat-and-loafer outfits worth bookmarking for the season ahead, courtesy of some of our most-trusted influencers. Enjoy!
Trench Coat-and-Loafer Outfits to Try This Season:
1. Khaki Trench Coat + Wide-Leg Jeans + Backless Loafers
Style Notes: Not a fan of the classic camel trench coats? Try a khaki iteration, like Taffy – it'll be just as versatile and easy to style with your autumn colour palette.
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One of the most versatile outerwear staples I own. It's perfect across all seasons.
Our editors have been raving about this Bottega bag for some time. Opt for a classic neutral tone or inject a pop of colour into your outfit like Taffy.
I've owned a pair of Arket jeans for years and still get so much wear out of them.
Now these are giving designer loafers vibes, but with the high street appeal of the price.
2. A-Line Trench Coat + Slim Jeans + Snaffle Loafers
Style Notes: If you're looking for an easy way to upgrade your jeans-and-a-T-shirt combo, look no further than these hero items. The result will be smart and polished, but no less comfortable.
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Two stylish trench coats in one...what's not to love?
COS is known for the best T-shirts.
These classic jeans come in an extended size range.
The loafer to rule all loafers.
3. Straight Trench Coat + White Jeans + Patent Loafers
Style Notes: A pair of white jeans, in any style, complements the camel shade of a classic trench coat beautifully. This look is an easy way to brighten up any monochrome-heavy wardrobes at this time of year.
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When I think of trench coats, I think of Burberry. The British fashion house invented the trench coat to protect World War I soldiers and over one century later the design has become a timeless staple in so many stylish people's wardrobes.
Obsessed with the big turn-up on this pair.
I love the longer length on these short sleeves for extra coverage on the arms.
If Prada Loafers are good enough for Hailey Bieber, they're good enough for us.
4. Cropped Trench Coat + Jeans + Minimal Loafers
Style Notes: Longline trench coats aren't your thing? The good news is there are plenty of cropped versions on the market and they look great with denim. Plus, cropped trench coats are ideal for those in-between weatehr days when you don't want your outerwear catching around your legs.
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This cropped trench coat boasts all the same design features as the longline version, it just falls to the hips instead of the knees.
The perfect cropped length to show off your new loafers.
A simple anti-trend outfit needs a timeless investment bag to go with it.
It doesn't get more timeless than this.
5. Black Trench Coat + Wide Leg Trousers + Cashmere Knit + Loafers
Style Notes: Personally, I tend to favour monochrome outfits, so naturally, I had to bookmark Amira's sleek look. This trench option will work over evening outfits, too.
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Designed to protect you during light showers (and keep you looking on-point throughout) thanks to M&S' signature Stormwear technology.
A failsafe knit you'll reach for year after year.
Neutral trousers contrast the black trench coat perfectly and offer a smart alternative to denim jeans.
Whistles has just created the ultimate penny loafer.
6. Classic Trench Coat + Mini Skirt + Chunky Loafers
Style Notes: Anyone who owns a trench coat will know how well they work with *everything*, including mini skirts. I love the juxtaposition between the short hemline and the chunky, almost masculine loafers. Just add tights if you want more coverage, or opt for bare leg and socks.
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H&M is my go-to for budget-friendly outerwear.
Perfect layering item you'll keep in your wardrobe for years.
Easy to dress down with trainers, or add heels for a night out, too.
I love the chunky sole on these & Other Stories loafers, as well as the elevated heel which adds extra height without compromising on comfort.
7. Suede Trench Coat + Turn-up Jeans + Tank Top + Cream Loafers
Style notes: Just because autumn is here, it doesn't mean we can't experiment with textures in our wardrobe. Suede textures are key, and when it comes to the trench, it's best just to check the weather forecast before stepping out in one. As the centrepiece to any look, I recommend pairing with dark denim jeans to let the outerwear staple do the talking.
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This is a worthy investment piece you'll come back to time and time again.
The double layered vest tops are the new way to wear the classic tank.
A dark blue denim against a camel, sand, or brown, trench coat just looks too chic not to try.
The neutral tone combined with the suede texture is just perfection.
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