Springtime always has me longing for a change in coats. Finally, I can pack away my thick parka, and replace it with something lighter weight. I’ve owned my mid-length trench coat for a few years. However, I recently decided to expand my collection by adding in a cropped version. It just feels like an easy throw-on piece that looks flattering with high-waisted bottoms. On the blog, I compare two high-quality options, as well as ideas for cropped trench coat outfits you can build this spring!
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Cropped Trench Coat Comparison Review
Left Coat (S) / Similar Option | Right Coat (UK 4) | White Tank | Black Leggings | Chunky Sneakers | Blue Jeans (25) | Veja Sneakers
Since it’s my first time trying this style, I decided to order two versions of the cropped trench coat: one from Abercrombie, and one from Karen Millen. It was a hard choice because both are lovely and well-designed. Although I only kept one, I would still recommend both based on their quality.
- Abercrombie (Nearly Identical Version): Was a new arrival in February, and has been so popular that it sold out! Ultimately, I decided to keep this one because I loved the deeper khaki color and slightly more cropped length on me. Fabric is polyester and water resistant.
- Karen Millen: Really great tailoring and attention to detail. I found the belt to be a little troublesome, and given my clumsiness, I’d probably lose it. The shoulder is padded, the fabric is cotton, and style is a little longer than the Abercrombie one.
In terms of quality, I found the Karen Millen coat to outdo Abercrombie’s. Both are lovely. However, this version delivered in terms of extra details. I loved that the Karen Millen coat used metal hardware, and included more ‘traditional’ components of a trench coat such as the ‘storm shield.’ (Read my earlier post on ‘Parts of a Traditional Trench Coat‘) The shoulders are also padded for a more tailored look.
In the end, I decided on the Abercrombie coat (very similar version) because I liked the slighter shorter length and deeper shade of khaki on me, whereas the Karen Millen version was a touch too yellow. I also felt that this version, though simpler, was easier to throw on. (I didn’t have to worry about losing the belt, and liked the easy silhouette)
Outfit Ideas for Spring
With such a versatile piece, here are some cropped trench coat outfits that might inspire you this spring. I love wearing it with a more laidback base outfit (e.g. leggings and a tee). However, you can also dress it up in a few creative ways. I find this piece to look best with something high-waisted. A cropped coat with high-waisted bottoms creates the perfect leg-lengthening proportions.
Outfit 1: Cropped Trench + Slip Skirt
Outfit 2: Athletic Chic Outfit ft. Flare Leggings
Outfit 3: Feminine Floral Dress
Outfit 4: Wide Leg Jeans or Trousers
