THE JOURNAL

When you think of prepping your sartorial arsenal for the in-between months, a trench coat should be one of the first things that comes to mind. First designed for the British Army by Mr Thomas Burberry in a breathable yet sturdy and rain-proof gabardine fabric (which makes it a fail-safe option for unpredictable weather), it’s since made the leap into the civilian wardrobe while maintaining its military rigour and polished appeal.
Like many classic designs it is under constant review, too, with a host of men’s brands – including The Row, Loro Piana and more – putting their own contemporary twist on the style. Here, we’ve picked seven of the best to land on the MR PORTER shelves this season.
01. The Nili Lotan classic design

Nili Lotan specialises in luxe yet understated classics that will form the bedrock of your wardrobe – this trench coat is a case in point. It bears a few elements of traditional styles, from the waterproof cotton-blend it’s tailored from, to epaulettes and the storm flap across the back.
02. The Loro Piana rain-resistant style

Loro Piana’s fabrics are some of the best in the world: the Italian brand has developed a series of treatments to make them even more durable and resistant to the elements. The cotton-blend twill on this trench, for instance, is treated with its signature rain and dirt-repellent Storm System® technology.
03. The TOM FORD luxe number

Rather than using traditional gabardine, TOM FORD has opted for a smoother cotton and silk-blend poplin to give its trench coat a soft handle and a relaxed structure. The concealed button placket gives it an even more streamlined appeal.
04. The Row understated silhouette

Moving away from traditional styles, The Row has left its trench free from any branding and superfluous detail, even forgoing any kind of fastening and hardware to give it the most streamlined look possible. The naturally breathable silk and linen blend construction means you can throw yours on pretty much any outfit.
05. The Burberry statement style

Burberry may well be one of the first brands to commercialise the original military trench coat, but it’s since reimagined the preppy staples in a variety of designs and colourways. This brick-hued style maintains the classic cotton-gabardine construction, but it’s updated with the brand’s moniker and an oak-leaf crest embroidery across the back.
06. The mfpen technical design

07. The ATON windproof number

Japanese brand ATON describes its designs as “comfortable to wear, but glossy, crip and light”, and this pared-back trench coat sums that up pretty nicely. It’s cut from windproof shell for a relaxed fit and is specially designed not to wrinkle, making a great option for getaway and long travels.