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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Left Coat: Exact Coat | Similar Option 1 | Similar Option 2 | 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.
Update: As of September 2024, both versions are sold out or low on stock. I am sharing some similar highly rated options below.
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)
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.
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