19 best trench coats for women the fashion set can't stop wearing

Consider this my love letter to trench coats for women; if there's one item I'm returning to every autumn, it's this timeless silhouette.

I might be over-exaggerating here, but they are – at least to me – the backbone of any well-curated wardrobe. Versatile, classic, appropriate for a plethora of weather conditions…trench coats stand the test of time and deserve every bit of praise they get.

The standout style for me this season? Aligne's new in Jamison design. Crafted from 100% organic cotton, it combines my two biggest obsessions in fashion: denim and great tailoring. While upholding that signature, slouchy look Aligne is renowned for, it features strategic shaping, contrast top-stitching and horn button details. If you're looking to get those “oh my God I love your coat, where's it from?” questions this coming season, this is the one that'll earn them.

Courtesy of brand. Caroline Lin wearing the Jamison trench coat.

Claire Clifton Coles

Jamison Mid Wash Denim Trench Coat

£249 at Aligne

Whether you're ‘team layer’ and prefer to wear yours atop a T-shirt and blazer for that extra bit of warmth, or you're a ‘drape-it-over-the-shoulders’ sort, trench coats for women have the magical ability to make every outfit feel much more put-together. Transitional-dressing? Incomplete without a trench coat.

Best cut from gabardine (it's breathable and waterproof), a trench will save you when it's too cold for a denim jacket but too warm to wrap up in a faux fur winter coat. While a parka, puffer or raincoat are all perhaps more suitable for walks in the countryside, a trusty trench coat is the answer to everything else.

How do I choose a good trench coat?

The trench coat has expanded its remits. Needless to say, the classic Burberry trench coat women love so dearly will never lose its space (the camel and toasted brown colourway is still huge, while their navy is forever a classic), however there are some great high-street alternatives these days. If you want a more unusual take on the trench, contemplate pops of colour or leather, as influenced by Allsaints and Mango.

For a can't-go-wrong neutral-hued trench coat, make a beeline for Burberry's Chelsea double-breasted design or Anine Bing's Randy trench coat. Both designer offerings are stellar investment pieces that’ll last for years. On the high street, ASOS and Reserved have followed in their footsteps with chic, well-priced styles. As a general rule of thumb, look for a silhouette you know you'll wear no matter the occasion and opt for fabrics that will stand the test of time. A foolproof recipe.

For more from GLAMOUR UK's Commerce Writer Georgia Trodd, follow her on Instagram @georgiatrodd.

Below, the 19 best trench coats for women to buy now and wear forever.