The Trench That Made Sense

Why I chose this one over the classic, and how I’m wearing it all season.

Most trench coats feel like costumes.

I spent years looking for one that had real presence. Clean lines, modern proportion, something that could finish an outfit and make me want to reach for it again.

This RAEY trench is that piece. The fabric has weight, so it holds a line when worn open. The shoulder is clean, the shape is refined, and the overall proportion sits differently than a classic trench. It has structure, but stays minimal. The kind of coat that makes even your simplest base look like you meant it.

Why This One

Classic trenches come as a complete package. The silhouette, the details, the formality, it’s all decided for you. You wear it and you’re wearing a Trench.

This RAEY trench is the opposite. It has presence, but it doesn’t demand a specific outfit underneath. It works with sneakers and denim, it works with tailored trousers. It adapts instead of taking over.

Better still, you can layer under it. Add a sweater, a vest, a second layer that shifts the whole proportion. Pin it. Add a brooch. Wear it open or buttoned. The trench stays the same, but how it reads changes with what’s underneath.

RAEY tends to get cut and fabric right, which is why I watch it on resale. When this trench showed up, I didn’t overthink it.

Styling Tip: A modern trench should feel like a finisher, not the whole story. If it demands a specific look underneath, it’s not the right one.

How I’m Wearing It

Below are four formulas I’ve been wearing in real time. Same coat, different bases and layers. A strong outerwear piece should work across your week, not just one specific occasion.

Formula 1: The Monochrome Base

For days I want clean lines and polish without fuss. RAEY trench (wearing size UK4) + COS jumper + Tibi cropped trousers (or similar here) + Old Celine V neck pumps + Max Mara belt (on sale)

Formula 2: The Clean Contrast

When I want the coat to do the framing. Trench (runs large) + Rachel Comey top + Bondi Apparel white denim (similar here and here) + R13 black western boot (great option here or Limited Edition here) + vintage ETRO bag (alt here) or fun green find here + YSL sunglasses

Formula 3: The Denim Shift

A casual base, tightened up with accessories. RAEY coat (wearing size UK4) + white tee + Khaite jeans + statement buckle belt

Formula 4: The Sharp Mix

My default when I want the look to feel intentional, but not dressed up. Trench + bodysuit (great alt also here) + jeans + black belt + sunglasses

Formula 5: The Casual Ease

When the trench needs to work with your real weekend, not just your polished days. RAEY trench from Curate & Rotate + striped tee + Alaia barrel jeans + also here + western boots

Old ZARA boots but here is a fun pair

Formula 6: The Layered Weekend

Proof that a modern trench can handle your off-duty life without looking out of place. Red beanie (similar here) + white tee or clean cut COS + boyfriend jeans + ASICS or car shoe sneakers

With tee and cashmere sweatshirt layered underneath. More texture, more depth

The Takeaway

This is what a strong outerwear piece does. It finishes what you already own. It works with layers, with accessories, with whatever’s underneath.

If you’re looking for a trench this season, skip the one that demands a specific outfit. Look for the one that adapts to yours. You’ll wear it more, and you’ll reach for it without thinking.

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This post is part of How to Wear It and Superior Staples, my ongoing notes from the studio on outfits, styling decisions, and the logic behind them. I’d love to hear what lands for you, what’s not working in your closet, or what you’re going to try first.

Yara