How to Style a Leather Trench Coat: 8 Outfit Ideas for Women

A leather trench coat is one of those pieces that instantly makes an outfit look considered. It has the classic shape of a traditional trench, with the edge and polish that only leather brings. The good news is that it is far more versatile than it looks. Here is how to style a leather trench coat for work, weekends and evenings, with eight outfit ideas and a few simple rules to help you get it right.

Why a Leather Trench Coat Works So Well

• It covers more. A longer length keeps you warmer and protects more of your outfit from wind than a cropped jacket.
• It dresses things up. Even jeans and a jumper look more polished under a long leather coat.
• It suits many shapes. A belted waist creates definition, while wearing it open gives a long, straight line.
• It lasts. Looked after properly, a good leather coat can stay in your wardrobe for many years.

Choosing a Colour

Black

The most versatile choice. It works with almost everything and leans sleek and modern.

Tan and brown

Warmer and softer, tan and brown look great with denim, cream, camel and earthy autumn shades.

Red and burgundy

A statement colour. Keep the rest of your outfit simple, such as black, white or denim, and let the coat take centre stage.

8 Leather Trench Coat Outfit Ideas

1. Jeans, white tee and trainers

The easiest everyday outfit. Straight-leg jeans, a crisp white T-shirt and clean white trainers keep the coat feeling relaxed. Wear it open with the belt tied loosely at the back.

2. Roll neck and tailored trousers

For the office, pair a fine-knit roll neck with wide-leg or straight tailored trousers and loafers or ankle boots. A black or brown trench makes this look smart without trying too hard.

3. Midi dress and knee-high boots

A slip dress or knitted midi dress with knee-high boots is a winning autumn combination. Belt the coat at the waist to show off the shape.

4. All-black outfit

Black jumper, black trousers or leggings, black boots and a black leather trench. Simple, sleek and very easy to put together. Add gold jewellery or a bold lip for contrast.

5. Chunky knit and leggings

For relaxed weekends, a cosy oversized jumper, leggings and chelsea boots work well under a belted trench. The structure of the coat balances the slouchy knit.

6. Tonal neutrals

A tan leather trench with cream, beige and camel pieces underneath creates a soft, expensive-looking outfit. Mix textures, such as knit, wool and leather, to keep it interesting.

7. Statement red with simple basics

If you choose red, pair it with dark jeans, a black top and black boots. Let the coat do all the talking and keep accessories minimal.

8. Evening look with heels

Wear the coat over a little black dress or satin skirt with heeled boots or court shoes. A leather trench is a stylish alternative to a wool coat for nights out in cooler weather.

Belted or Open?

Both work, and they give quite different effects.

• Belted: Tie it at the natural waist for a defined, feminine shape. A loose knot looks more relaxed than a buckle pulled tight.
• Open: Wearing it unbuttoned creates long vertical lines, which can make you look taller. Tie the belt at the back so it doesn't hang loose.
• Half-tucked: Slip the belt ends into the pockets for an easy, casual finish.

Shoes and Accessories

Ankle boots, knee-high boots, loafers and clean trainers all pair well with a leather trench coat. For bags, a structured shoulder bag or tote suits the coat's polished feel. In colder weather, add a wool scarf in a contrasting colour and leather gloves to finish the look.

Fit Tips

The shoulders should sit at your natural shoulder line, and you should be able to wear a jumper underneath without the coat pulling across the back. Sleeves should reach around the base of your thumb. If you are between sizes and plan to layer a lot in winter, consider sizing up.

Caring for Your Leather Trench

Hang your coat on a wide, padded hanger to protect the shoulders, and store it in a breathable cover rather than plastic. If it gets wet, let it dry naturally away from heat, and condition the leather occasionally to keep it soft.

Shop Women's Leather Trench Coats

Find your favourite colour and length in our range of long leather coats, available in sizes XS to 4XL:

• Zervano Women's Black Leather Trench Coat
• Zervano Women's Tan Leather Trench Coat
• Zervano Women's Red Leather Trench Coat
• Zervano Women's Dark Brown Distressed Leather Long Coat
• Zervano Women's Red Lambskin Leather Long Jacket Coat

Browse the full women's jackets collection. For more styling help, read How to Style Your Leather Jacket for Every Season and our guide to how a leather jacket should fit.