Trench coats that make you look Fabulous after 40

May 13, 2011 by Deborah Boland and JoJami Tyler - The Glam Gals

Deb in her Michael Kors trenchcoat

Deborah: I went to meet my friend Karen for lunch the other day, and didn’t we both show up in navy blue trench coats! Now, trench coats are one of those basics that never go out of style and are perfect for the “inbetween weather” of spring and fall.

Karen in her cute trench

This year I’m noticing more of them than usual!

A little background…It was Thomas Burberry who created the Trench coat in 1901 for British Officers during the first world war. They were designed as warm weather coats to wear in the trenches, but went on to become a fashion favorite.

Today Burberry is still famous for its trenches, but almost every other name designer has done some version of the trench at one time or another.

Boring, you say? … Trenches can be, but at the moment there are so many versions of the trench to suit every fashion personality type, they are really exciting and more popular than ever.

Here’s a look at a few we found that we thought looked Fab.

Ruffle some Feathers! We love the way this Tahari ‘Evelyn’ Ruffle Front Satin Trench puts such a feminine spin on a what was originally a masculine uniform. (Nordstrom) Tip: A trench coat should not pull across the bust when buttoned up, or you know it is too small.
Red hot Mamma Imagine popping into the grocery store or picking up the kids in this chic double-breasted Gallery Trench Coat. Just looking at this vibrant red gives us energy. (Nordstrom) Tip: These short trenches are particularly good for petite women who can look swamped in longer trenches.
Poetic Possibilities For fashion forward gals this Elie Tahari “Shari Belted” Trench is a keeper. The dramatic collar and 3-quarter length sleeves give it a classy, artsy feel. Tip: be careful wearing head to toe black, especially if you are fair. Black can be draining, especially after 40 as it is very high contrast against aging skin.
Globetrotting Gal Shoulder epaulets and a button tab collar give this “Rebecca” trench by DKNY a military look. Doesn’t she look like she’s ready to get on a plane, train or boat and travel somewhere exciting? This is the perfect travel coat.(Nordstrom) Tip: If you have big hips, a great way to balance them out is to find a jacket like this with some detail at the shoulder. The epaulets build up your shoulders making them look wider and your hips look slimmer!
Ombre Mystery Talk about new and very cool. This Gryphon Dip Dye Belted Trench looks like the kind of timeless, classic spy coat modernized by a moody- dip dyed design. (Nordstrom) Tip: The classic trench is double-breasted, which looks fantastic on most, but if you are big busted it will make you look top-heavy. Try single breasted instead. The perfect length is at the knee.
Artsy Original Drape yourself in a work of art. This Robert Rodriguez Trench Coat oozes style, class and uniqueness. (Nordstrom) Tip: This trench is a little unusual in that it has double lapels. But, double or single, the mark of a good fit is that the lapels lie flat. The stitching on the lapels should also be impeccable.

Sporty Chic This Patagonia Torrentshell Trench Coat with its concealed zipper and hood has a very sporty and youthful look and feel that works best with pants. Tip: This burnt orange color is most flattering on women with warm skin and hair - women with golden blond, warm brown, auburn or red hair, and skin that has yellow or peachy undertones.
Trench Inspired Pretty cute if, you have the figure! This darling trench inspired jacket by Caslon is fabulous just the way it is pictured here. Just cover up this young girl’s face and insert yours instead! (Sorry about that ladies, but these are the pictures we have to work with-retailers need to wake up!- This from Nordstrom) Tip: This is a fantastic example of taking a classic ( the trench coat)and adding a trendy element (the motorcycle jacket cut). Classic + a trendy twist = FABULOUS AFTER 40! Which trench do you like? Did you buy a trench coat this year? Send us a photo of you in your trench and we will post it!