If you're wondering how to a trench coat this season, we've got all the answers. And although it might seem simple to tie a classic knot or bow, you can actually tie your go-to outerwear in several different ways to elevate your look.
The transitional spring months call for the best trench coats for women. Perfect for the unpredictable weather and rain showers, you will likely be turning to yours day after day over the coming months. But if you are becoming a little bored of the look, wondering how to style a trench coat, or you want to secure it in different ways to alter the silhouette, tying your trench coat differently can be the easy trick to transform your ensemble.
Whether you're lucky enough to own one a Burberry trench coat, or a sophisticated high street find, we've got some handy tips for how to tie them. A trench usually comes with a waist tie that can both enhance your shape and secure the coat. However, standard knots can often unravel when you walk, or look quite bulky against the sleek silhouette of your jacket. Whether you're after a more practical and efficient way to tie a trench coat, or you want a more stylish form of knot to give a fashion-forward edge, these methods won't let you down.
How to tie a trench coat 3 different ways
We have tried out three different methods for tying a trench coat that are practical and stylish in equal measure. If a knot isn't sitting right, you don't have enough length for a proper bow, or you need something that will stop your waist tie from slipping undone, one of these is sure to deliver.
Although your spring capsule wardrobe may be complete in terms of the pieces you own, there's always room for playing around with silhouettes to refresh your outfits - and these tying methods are one of the easiest ways to do so. We've named them the loop and pull, the tie back, and the half bow, and each is surprisingly simple and stylish. Here is exactly how to tie them, plus how they look on.
1: The Loop & Pull
- Wrap the belt around your hand
- Tuck the end through the loop
- Feed the end of the belt through
- And pull both ends to tighten
2: The Tie Back
- Cross over each end of the belt
- Feed the right side under and over as though doing a tie
- And then up behind the knot (still like a tie)
- Feed it through the loop and pull tight
3. The Half Bow
- Start by making a regular bow
- Then pull out one side of the bow
- Tighten and et voilà!
How to tie a Burberry trench coat
When I visited the Burberry store, the stylist showed me a chic way to tie the trench coat that I hadn't considered before. Instead of knotting the belt at the back in the usual way, they created a loop knot to the side, letting the ends drape. This way, you can really see the double-breasted buttons, and it highlights the front of the coat.
The classic back tie is another effortless option that helps to keep the design at the forefront. This can be done by wrapping the belt into a tie knot at the back. This also can help to reveal some of the iconic Burberry checked lining too.
Another brilliant way to liven up your trench is to swap the belt for a printed scarf. Simply thread it through the belt loops and tie it at the back in a loose knot or a bow. This simple accessory can really brighten up your outerwear, and you could opt for interesting shades such as crimson red, blush pink or emerald green.
How to tie a Burberry trench coat at the back
Tying your trench coat belt at the back is a stylish way to keep you coat open while adding shape to your overall silhouette. You can achieve a sophisticated look by following the steps from the video above.
For example, you first cross over each end of the belt, feed the right side under as though doing a tie, and then up behind the knot and feed through and simply adjust to your liking.
Shop belt replacements & accessories
If you've misplaced your trench coat belt or are wanting to refresh your look, there are plenty of stylish replacements online to shop. Another option is to swap out the belt for a pattern silky scarf, this will certainly brighten up your existing trench.
This handy trench coat belt comes in nine colourways, from classic honey to grey green.
Elevate your current trench coat with this luxurious printed belt. It is jacquard-woven and features the iconic Burberry Check.
Liven up your trench coat with this botanical silk printed scarf. Simply fold and tie at the back to add an elevated edge.
FAQS
How do you secure a belt on a trench coat?
If you own a more premium trench like a Burberry trench, your jacket is likely to come with a long, stylish belt and sufficient belt loops attached to the jacket. However, some high street options may either come without a belt, like M&S' trench coat or without belt loops.
In these cases, you will want to use one of the tying methods demonstrated above to ensure your belt is secured properly and won't budge when you walk or move around. Not only does learning how to tie a trench coat properly give your outerwear a more luxurious feel, but it will ensure day-long, comfortable wear.
Should a trench coat be fitted or loose?
Choosing between a fitted or a loose style really depends on your own personal preference and how you plan to wear it. A loose trench coat works well for layering over chunky knitwear or oversized silhouettes, whereas a fitted trench will work for polished looks, for example, layered over tailored separates for the office.
Freelance Fashion Editor Matilda Stanley says "I think a trench coat looks far chicer when worn a little loosely. You want it to sit well over any clothes from your wardrobe, so I’d recommend looking for oversized fits or even sizing up when buying yours. This means it will sit just as well over a chunky knit jumper as it will over a floaty sundress, and you’ll get plenty of wardrobe mileage out of it.
Later say, "A loose fit trench has an easy and relaxed vibe that still manages to look polished, and I’d always suggest wearing yours open rather than buttoned up and figure-hugging – keep it casual and let it show off your outfit underneath."
How do you make a trench coat fit?
If your trench coat feels too loose, there are several ways to make it fit better. For example, you could cinch in the waist tightly with a belt for a more polished, refined feel or tie it at the back for a similar but more relaxed effect. And if you're struggling with the sleeves, you can neatly roll the cuffs.
Matilda advises, "If you do prefer a neat and fitted silhouette, simply try fastening the buttons and cinching in your waist with the tie sash. Little tricks like rolling up the sleeves a little and popping up the collar can all add definition and prevent you from looking too swamped in fabric too."
