Finding Your Perfect Trench: A Construction-First Guide

Correction (Feb 16): An earlier version stated the gun flap belongs on the buttonhole side. It's the button side - the flap covers the buttons to seal against rain. Thanks to reader who caught this mistake.

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The gun flap belongs on the same side as the buttons – period. It isn't arbitrary embellishment; it's how the coat seals against rain. A $3,200 Khaite coat gets this wrong while a $160 Mango gets it right, proving that understanding construction has nothing to do with price.

My non-negotiables for any trench: structured collar (preferably with hook and eye), smooth cotton fabric, and evidence that someone studied the original. The gun flap itself is optional. Even Burberry omitted it for some styles as far back as 1916. Skipping the gun flap looks like a design choice. Placement on the wrong side glares like a mistake. Here's what design integrity looks like across price points.

Gap Factory Modern Trench Coat

An affordable, classic option with a relaxed silhouette that offers a clean modern look without the traditional details.

Fabrication Outer: 100% cotton. Lining: unlisted

Available Options Colors: Cargo Khaki, Sizes: XS - XXL

Key Features

• No gun flap
• No rain shield in the back
• No collar hook and eye
• No epaulettes
• No wrist belts
• No belt buckle

Quince Comfort Stretch Long Trench Coat

Also in short, $90 and mid length, $100

A more traditional trench silhouette with a classic fit bodice and slight stretch, featuring water-resistant properties and multiple length options. Organic cotton in a smooth fabric

Fabrication Outer: 98% organic cotton, 2% spandex | Lining: 100% polyester | Water-resistant finish (PFC-Free)

Available Options Colors: Light Khaki, Coffee Bean Brown, Navy, Midnight Black | Sizes: XS - XL | Lengths: Long, Mid, Short

Key Features

• Collar with large hook and eye
• Folded epaulettes (decorative)
• Fully detachable wrist belts
• Gun flap on correct side
• Back rain shield

Mango Double-breasted trench coat with corduroy collar

An updated, oversized coat with an army surplus look. I'm impressed by the removable wrist belts and fully fashioned epaulettes. Mango delivers cool with authentic details – not a hype victim.

Fabrication Outer: 100% cotton| lining: 80% polyester, 20% cotton | Water-repellent

Available Options Color: Khaki | Sizes: S, M, L

Key Features:

• No collar hook and eye, but structured collar with a removable corduroy cover
• Button-fastening epaulettes
• Removable wrist belts
• Belt with buckle and back strap that secures to belt loop
• No gun flap
• Back rain shield

Aritzia The Finch Trench Coat

Also in short and mid lengths.

Featuring premium Italian fabric and meticulous detailing, this water-repellent coat offers a classic fit in three lengths and seven colors (though some sizes have sold out.)

Fabrication Outer: 100% cotton (Italian fabric) | Lining: 100% cupro | Water-repellent

Available Options Colors: Marcona Beige, Wicker Tan, Atlas Olive, Black, Folio Brown, Admiral, Dreaming Blue | Sizes: 2XS - XL

Key Features

• Collar with hook and eye
• Button-fastening epaulettes
• Detachable wrist belts
• Gun flap on correct side
• Rain shield in back
• Welt hand pockets

Everlane The Modern Trench Coat

A modernized take with an eco-friendly approach, featuring a thinner fabric but elevated by high armholes for a chic silhouette.