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I’m a huge black-and-white film buff. Give me a 1940s screwball comedy any day of the week: The rapid-fire dialogue, the surprisingly progressive occupations of the female protagonists (for the period, anywho) and the fashion. Specifically, the wardrobes of the male characters. (During a recent re-watch of Howard Hawks’ His Girl Friday, I was enamored by Cary Grant’s well-tailored suits.) However, there is one particular article of clothing synonymous with leading men of the ’40s, ’50s and ’60s: The trench coat.
I mean, has any man ever been hotter than a trench coat-clad Humphrey Bogart on a foggy tarmac telling Ingrid Bergman to get on that plane at the end of Casablanca? Or Audrey Hepburn and George Peppard in matching trenches sharing a passionate kiss in the pouring rain in Breakfast at Tiffany’s? I think not.
If you don’t already own one, a trench should be at the top of your to-buy list right now, especially as we enter peak kissing-on-the-sidewalk-in-the-rain season. But just don’t take it from me, take it from InsideHook’s style editor Paolo Sandoval, who says belted outerwear adds “structure and sophistication” to an already strong coat game, to which I agree. Who is a leading man if not structured and sophisticated?
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From faded pastels to hi-vis persimmons, these are the color trends you should be following this springIf you’re not feeling the strapped, tie look, then the modern, casually open look with no belt — like this slightly oversized option from Madewell — is also a suitable option for rainy days. I might even prefer this laidback style a bit more than the traditional belt look, as it combines the well-tailored character of the classic style with a more rugged, relaxed look for an effortlessly sexy vibe.
Beyond its timelessly handsome aura, the trench coat is, of course, a practical article of clothing. There’s a reason why the trench is a long-held spring-style staple: spring showers don’t stand a chance; raindrops will seamlessly ripple off your protective, water-repellent layer without penetrating the ‘fit underneath.
Whether that outfit is a nice sweater with slacks, a matching sweatsuit, a tailored suit or a simple T-shirt and jeans, the warm, long, lightweight layer has an impressive ability to elevate any spring outfit you throw on. Before, you were just a man running around town in a short-sleeve and Levi’s jeans. Now, you’re a worldly leading man on the way to sweep the love of your life off her feet. Or tell her to jump on a plane and leave you forever. What you decide to do in your trench coat is completely up to you — as long as you don’t flash anyone.
My Favorite Trench Coats for Men
A very affordable trench coat style from Quince, this organic cotton layer is fully lined and coated with a water-resistant finish. You can choose to wear it open or utilize the full button-front closure for protection when the weather gets hairy.
Uniqlo’s very modern take on the trench coat is another affordable option. It features a relaxed silhouette and a clean-looking front flap design with a waterproof fastener to keep rain out.
Feeling a more modern look? Try Everlane’s oversized coat with large patch pockets.
Crafted from Italian Twill, Madewell’s take on the trench is a slightly oversized, versatile outer layer you can throw over anything for a nonchalant, but still style-forward look.
If you’re going to invest in a pricier coat, let it be J.Crew’s vintage-inspired trench.
Now, this is leading man attire. If you have leading man funds, of course.
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