Spring Essential – A Trench Coat


As we are sloooooowly transitioning into spring here in Chicago, we could not be more excited to replace the winter clothes in our closets over to our favorite spring staples. We’re ready for lighter colors, less layers, and a whole lot more sunshine! We’ve got spring fever!
How to Style a Trench Coat for Work and Play | DIY Playbook

One item that we practically live in this time of year is our trench coats. We each added a trench coat to our collection last year and we still can’t believe how much use we get out of this seasonal item. You guys know how much we love finding items that can be worn to work and on the weekends and this piece definitely fits the bill (to say the least).

CaseyHow to Style a Trench Coat for Work and Play | DIY Playbook

I bought my first trench coat last spring, and it was such a worthwhile purchase for my wardrobe because it’s incredibly versatile. After looking at lots of options, I ended up going with a Michael Kors one from Nordstrom.ย It ended up beating out the other ones because it has a detachable hood and inner lining!

It doesn’t look like they sell the exact same one anymore, butย this Michael Kors trench coatย is incredibly similar (plus it’s got the hood & liner!)

How to Style a Trench Coat for Work and Play | DIY Playbook

The liner and hood are off in these photos, but it’s so nice to have those options for chillier days or days with rain in the forecast. Plus the buttons make it simple to attach and de-tach based on the weather.ย How to Style a Trench Coat for Work and Play | DIY Playbook

During the spring, I wear my trench coat to work on most days specifically because it makes any ensemble look that much more pulled together. Plus, the neutral color ensures that it works with just about any look for the office.ย How to Style a Trench Coat for Work and Play | DIY Playbook

But I definitely wear my trench on the weekends too! Whether I’m running errands or heading out on the town. It really is just such a nice lightweight coat that works with just about anything!

Bridget

How to Style a Trench Coat for Work and Play | DIY Playbook

I bought my go-to trench coat last year from Banana Republic outlet for 50% off but it looks like it’s on sale again this year. I actually just saw the exact same oneย for 30% off at the outlet again this year in khaki, black,ย and navy stripes. I also found this very similar one from H&M for under $50, definitely the cheapest option I have seen so far this season.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS and I’d say this trench is true to size, but if you’re looking to add some bulkier layers under your trench coat, I would suggest sizing up one.How to Style a Trench Coat for Work and Play | DIY PlaybookThe trench coat is awesome because it matches withย everything! Today I paired it withย jeans and booties for weekend errands. But as Casey mentioned, I wear it to work all the time with black pants, grey pants, skirts and even dresses.ย How to Style a Trench Coat for Work and Play | DIY PlaybookDuring the weekends, I’ll also dress this coat down by pairing it with converse and even a baseball cap. OR it’s perfectly paired with rain boots during the rainy spring days here in Chicago.

How to Style a Trench Coat for Work and Play | DIY Playbook

A coat that can be worn over a dress, with Hunter boots,ย and with converse? This trench has definitely earned its stay in my closet.ย How to Style a Trench Coat for Work and Play | DIY PlaybookI love the black and navy stripe options at Banana and have even seen some other bold colors that have caught my eye over the years. But I will say I’m glad I decided on the khaki because I can throw it on with any outfit and not really worry about coordinating.
How to Style a Trench Coat for Work and Play | DIY Playbook

Bottom line: We’re pretty obsessed with these hardworking jackets and definitely recommend adding one to your closet this spring if you don’t already have one. If you’re anything like us, we KNOW you’ll get your money’s worth. If not during this first year, definitely for years and years to come. You just can’t go wrong with a classic trench this time of year!

Bridget&Casey


The Year of Casey

Hey there!

Iโ€™m Casey Finn, the voice behind The DIY Playbook. I’m a Chicago gal teaching you how to design, DIY, and maintain your home…by yourself! Learn more about me right here.