enTRENCHed

March left with a chilled and expectant attitude. April has arrived, bringing with it the fresh aroma of dew and daffodils. Each time a season reinvents the weather, it is time to spring forward and add to an already brimming wardrobe. Every season, every year, there is a new trend to follow. But like the beautiful perennials that begin to peek their buds through April and blossom in May, there are some staples that never go out of style.

The trench coat was originally developed for the British Army in the First World War and went on to serve as fashion tradition from then on out. This classic piece works well with every body type as it accents your most intriguing features and minimizes your least. It allows you to show off that waist with a wide belt which gives an excellent slimming effect to the body.  

From the office to a night out on the town, this classic piece is appropriate for every occasion and elevates whatever you choose to wear with it. It allows for an ideal blend of form and function.

For 2010, say goodbye to the boring traditional colour palette of khaki and black and indulge yourself in eye-popping shades of teal, coral, and yellow, or be bold and make a statement with cool pastels and ravishing prints.  

When hunting for that perfect trench, look for something unique with a little flare, and not just your conventional long black trench with six to eight buttons down the front. Boring. Mix it up this spring and seek out the best trench on the market. Here’s a guide to help you get the most out of this versatile piece:

This season, an array of detailing dominated the runways. Ruffles at the shoulders, cropped sleeves, pleats, and exquisite collars instantly catch the eye of any onlooker.  

Stray away from the usual long length trench and veer towards a shorter version which is perfect for spring as it is versatile enough to take you from the office  to your favourite after-work lounge.  

The trench coat does so much more than protect us from the cold and rain; remarkably, it can double as a dress, belted with rolled-up sleeves. The perfect accent to this alteration would be to pair with some stunning heels.

Fashion is supposed to be a reflection on one’s self, so have fun with it. Add your own personal element to garments. What’s great about the trench is its versatility: Choose a wide belt of your choice, individualizing the item to supreme results; Add a contrasting broach to give intrigue and allure; Experiment wearing it traditionally or as an integral part of your whole ensemble.

Spring is synonymous with freshness, so dew up your style and make a lasting impression.

(TUSCANY trench from RUDSAK: Linen-coated trench with asymmetrical closing. $365)