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6 fashion-writer approved cropped trench coats for spring

06 May 2024 , 07:05
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Best cropped trenches on the high street including River Island, Arket and New Look
Best cropped trenches on the high street including River Island, Arket and New Look

From Michelle Keegan’s to the Instagram grids of a-listers like and - there’s no denying that the trench coat is back in a big way. But as is often the case with trends, the timeless jacket has been updated with a contemporary twist for 2024, with the classic being revisited in a range of fabrics like and linen.

But there’s an even more accessible and wearable fresh take on the trench that’s currently flooding the high street, and it’s perfect for jazzing up your spring and summer ensembles. Enter the - a chic and playful adaptation of the timeless silhouette that's taking the fashion world by storm.

Gone are the days when trench coats were solely reserved for gloomy weather and formal occasions. With the rise of cropped versions, this iconic outerwear piece has been reimagined for the warmer months and can be worn for every occasion, whether you're heading to the office, running errands, or meeting friends for brunch.

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What’s more is that the shorter length elongates the legs making you appear taller, meaning it’s a great choice for petite shoppers in particular. It also means you’ll be able to show off the lower portion of your outfit that’s typically covered by a full-length coat.

There are dozens of styles to choose from, with retailers like Marks and Spencer, River Island and more all offering their own take on the trend. Here are some of our current fashion writer-approved picks from the high street:

Marks & Spencer - £55

6 fashion-writer approved cropped trench coats for springThe Marks & Spencer Cotton Rich Stormwear Short Trench Coat - £55 (M&S)

In a , M&S scored silver, beaten only by River Island for their Cotton Rich Longline Trench Coat, so we can expect a similar quality with , too. Made from cotton-rich fabric with added stretch for a comfortable feel, it's designed in a regular fit and features a double-breasted, button-through front for a classic look.

Coming in at £55, shoppers have praised it for being ‘comfortable’ and working well for ‘smart and casual’ looks, but some who ordered online have complained that it arrived ‘creased’. What is pretty exciting though is that it has an perfect for keeping your phone and bank card safe. And because the Great British weather remains unpredictable as ever, it’s crafted with a to protect you from light rain showers.

River Island - £55

6 fashion-writer approved cropped trench coats for springRiver Island's Beige Button Up Crop Trench Coat - £55 (River Island)

How about a celeb-approved pick? Cat Deeley recently complimented pregnant Sian Welby on the This Morning sofa while she was wearing this over a stretchy black jumpsuit, which she jokingly called a ‘bumpsuit’.

Coming in sizes 6 to 18, the is available in three shades, including beige, black and navy, boasting a high neckline for a sophisticated silhouette. The cropped jacket has a button down style, long sleeves and chest pockets, and is made from 100 per cent cotton for a premium feel.

New Look - £45.99

6 fashion-writer approved cropped trench coats for springThe New Look Camel Crop Trench Coat - £45.99 (New Look)

For something a little more lightweight, this has all the classic traits of a regular trench, from the epaulettes to the belted cuffs, and has been described as ‘a must in everyone’s wardrobe’ but shoppers.

Cut to a cropped length, the lightweight finish makes it the perfect layer for spring and beyond, but some have found it to be a bit ‘thin’. One shopper said: “This is very on trend but it’s very thin and not really jacket material, would not be able to wear until much milder warmer days. I think it’s quite expensive for the type of material it is but I got it in the sale so it’s slightly more justified,”

However, another penned: “This is a must in everyone's wardrobe. Beautiful tan colour. The material is of excellent quality. I can’t wait to wear.”

ASOS DESIGN - £48

6 fashion-writer approved cropped trench coats for springASOS DESIGN cropped trench coat in stone - £48 (ASOS)

In need of a jacket you can throw-on-and-go? Then reportedly ‘looks better in person than it does online’ - and we think it looks dreamy as is. ASOS are always ahead of the curve when it comes to trends, and their take on the jacket features a notch collar, button fastening, side pockets and relaxed fit - though some have found the sleeves a bit long.

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One said: “One of those items you order and it actually looks better in person than it does online. I did size down, I’d typically wear a 10/12 and I ordered a size 8. It’s a quality fabric and cut, the fit looks great and more expensive than the price it is.”

But another added: “Wanted to love this but it was really ill fitting. You need arms like a sloth for the sleeve to fit appropriately.”

The jacket also comes in if you’re into a moodier colour palette (or are just prone to spilling your coffee).

PrettyLittleThing - £45

6 fashion-writer approved cropped trench coats for springThe PrettyLittleThing Beige Cropped Belted Hem Trench Coat - £45 (PLT)

One of the more affordable options but easily one of the most chic, too is this With a belted design and a cropped length, you'll be adding this trench coat straight to your basket. Pair it with your favourite light blue denim jeans and you’ve got yourself a foolproof spring get up. Did we mention that it ?

Arket - £169

6 fashion-writer approved cropped trench coats for springThe Arket Short Trench Coat in Beige - £169 (Arket)

Arket has thrown their hat - well, coat - into the ring with this though it will set you back a little more than some of the others in this list at £169. The twill-woven fabric is made in a blend of linen and cotton which makes it super lightweight and breathable for the warm weather.

The coat offers a voluminous silhouette with a hidden press-button closure and features classic details such as shoulder epaulettes, sleeve straps and a rain guard. One fashion enthusiast shared their thoughts on the jacket, commenting: “Pro's: This fits beautifully. The details are purposeful and understated. The oversized fit offers that very modern silhouette, something just a little different to the average long trench. Even more perfect for those windy London days as you won't be fighting with the length the same way you would a long one.”

They added: “Cons: This is made of cotton and linen so it will require pressing every few weeks and storing carefully to keep it looking neat. As to be expected with the fabric.” Elsewhere, you can find our fashion team’s favourite spring denim picks , and the top straw bags to shop now ..

Bethan Shufflebotham

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