With loads of rain coming our way, I’m circling back to my quest for a new trench coat. I’ve narrowed down the options to a slim cut (the Burberry Chelsea) in a longer length, but I’m stuck on going with their classic honey beige or practical black. In reality, a trench coat has limited wear in California and will be used predominantly for travel. My short Burberry is twenty years old and in great shape so investing in a new longer silhouette makes sense. See the subtle variations on the Kensington and the Chelsea below:
Short, Mid-length, and Long Kensington Heritage Trench Coat in beige (classic fit)
Short, Mid-length, and Long Kensington Heritage Trench Coat in black (classic fit)
Short, Mid-length and Long Chelsea Heritage Trench Coat in beige (fitted)
Short, Mid-length and Long Chelsea Heritage Trench Coat in black (fitted)
If I went with another color and brand, these are the ones I’d consider:
Ralph Lauren (a nice single breasted option)
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Patricia
Karima, I know you love black but rainy days are gloomy
enough. Classic beige gets my vote.
Karima
Good point.
Leslie Miles
Thank you for this post. I’ve wanted to upgrade my old trench. Love the longer length. Torn between black and tan. Maybe leaning towards the black Kensington version.
Karima
Agree. I like the black for nighttime.
Barbara
I was at Burberry yesterday contemplating the same issue. I like the slightly heavier fabric of the Kensington. And because I also use mine just for travel, I am leaning toward black, but I’m having trouble making a final decision.
Karima
I think I need to retry them all!
Paradise
Yes! Black seems dreary even though I love black, white and navy. The green khaki options look refreshing. Love your blog! First time commenting. Getting ready for Iceland . . . and been referring to your Southwest packing posts.
Karima
Thank you and how exciting about Iceland!!!
Sheri Drobnick
No matter what I like the classic beige color that for California is an all year round classic..
Karima
Very classic and perfect for California…
Ann Travis
I am crazy for a classic Burberry trench! I love the Kensington in the long black. I bought mine 10 years ago when I started a job that had me traveling to Europe quite often. The black doesn’t show any dirt (which is inevitable while traveling) and goes from day to night seamlessly. I also like that I can wear a sweater or blazer underneath the Kensington style. You’ll look great in whatever you decide!
Karima
I think the roomier Kensington is a better option for travel and layers.
Cindy Taylor
I just purchased the Jenni kayne trench in a great black/brown/green color. The color is hard to describe buts it’s wonderful. The fabric is light weight and feels really good. I ordered it with no idea it would be so good.
Karima
Good to know! Thanks!
MMS
I live in London where it’s often rainy and gray, so I prefer the beige. For when it’s cooler and I don’t want to carry an umbrella, I wear my thin hooded Canada goose inside my Burberry raincoat.
I saw a very similar Barbour raincoat for anyone who has a lower preferred price point. https://www.barbour.com/uk/barbour-greta-showerproof-jacket-lsp0077be71
Karima
Great tip on both the Canada Goose and Barbour!
Jennifer
Honey is classic. If you needed a workhorse trench for travel then maybe the black. However, seems you dress elevated casual for the most part so I would probably opt for honey over black. Honey can go both ways. I just purchased the new re-designed Waterloo which has a beautiful heritage silk/rayon lining. Hard to describe – look on website. The leather buckles are beige instead of brown. It’s a little more refined so I would be comfortable wearing it day or night. I debated same as you but am so happy with my decision. It runs a little full but the cotton/gabardine is slightly finer so it lays nicely. I know you ruled out that style but maybe rethink. They suggested I size down. I’m a four but bought a two. Also the ragland sleeve accommodates a blazer more comfortably which I wear a lot of so that was a big factor for me. I have a shorter tench that I can wear on warmer days in light rain. Such a personal decision but I would base it on lifestyle and how you intend to wear it most. Love your blog btw. You have beautiful taste and style.
Karima
Thank you. Great comment! I’m relooking at the Waterloo and can see your point.
Jennifer
One more thing, if you need black, consider purchasing a lighter weight less expensive one. I have a Jil Sander black that I bought a dozen years ago that I wear when I need to feel a little more dressed. And it’s very packable so good for travel.
Karima
Good point.
Tara B
I am not keen on epaulets on the shoulders of most trenches…any thoughts on possible brands that may not have them??
Karima
Another reader mentioned the Jenni Kayne trench which looks really good and without epaulets! Click HERE.