I’ve never really been a trench coat person. For as long as I can remember, the term has conjured images of spectacularly put-together fashion insiders wearing classic beige trenches – Burberry, I’d imagine – belt tied in the quintessential ‘fashion influencer’ loop at the back, high-end designer handbag hooked on their arm and a crisp white shirt underneath, which has probably been steamed and pressed more times than I’ve ever ironed anything in my life.
Timeless and chic, undoubtedly. But a look that could never be me. I’ve always preferred something a little… messier. Something with a soupçon of personality. Something a bit more fun.
Which is why the trench coat from the M&S spring denim campaign has made me do an immediate 180. Marrying the timelessness of a trench coat with the versatility and laidback appeal of denim, the M&S Cotton Rich Denim Belted Trench Coat is everything and more I’ve been looking for in a coat for spring. It’s cut in a longline regular fit with a double-breasted front, expensive-looking cuff detailing and button fastenings.
I think you’ll agree it looks way more designer than its £79 price tag. It’s giving 7 For All Mankind. It’s giving Alaïa. It’s also giving ‘that viral denim trench coat from Aligne that all your best-dressed friends own’.
Plus, as the weather becomes slightly more bearable and we look to banish our heavy winter coats to the back of wardrobes, a lightweight trench is the ideal trans-seasonal piece. I’ll be sizing up in mine for a more relaxed look, and pairing with my favourite trainers, plain white tee and straight-leg jeans. Or maybe I’ll go full denim revival and layer it with bold head-to-toe denim.
In fact, triple or even quadruple denim is proving to be a notable trend on recent catwalks. At Copenhagen Fashion Week alone, designers including Helmstedt, Stine Goya and Marimekko showcased models in a variety of all-denim looks, so if Fashion Month is anything to go by so far, a denim trench coat is the ideal addition to your spring/ summer 2024 wardrobe. ’90s eat your heart out.
The M&S denim trench is also part of the brand’s commitment to making cotton production more responsible by partnering with Better Cotton, and like most M&S ranges, it’s available in inclusive sizing from a 6-24.
Best be quick though, as some sizes are already selling out. You’re welcome!