How to Choose the Perfect Fabric for Your Trench Coat

A trench coat can be an essential clothing item if you live in places where it regularly rains, snows or is cold.  It has a classic fashion style and is also very practical as well.  When selecting a trench coat, you have many options for the type of fabric to select.  Here we give you an overview of the different options to help guide you in your selection process.

1. Waterproof fabric

One of the things you should consider when shipping for a trench coat is being water-repellant. You’d surely freeze in the cold once you soak wet in your trench coat. For this reason, you better make sure your fabric is waterproof.

There are several options of water-repellant fabrics that you can choose from. One popular choice is a twill variation. It drapes like a standard twill because of its smoothness. Also, you can pick taslan and water-resistant canvas, among others.

2. Twill

You should consider twill fabrics to for a classic or traditional trench coat. Most of them are typically cotton twill, which is tightly woven yet still has an excellent drape. An organic cotton twill is perfect for trench coats and other outerwear! These are also usually offered in the traditional trench coat colors of khaki and black.

Unusual Materials for Trench Coats

woman holding up a trench coat on a hanger

If you want your trench coats to be unique, you can choose uncommon fabrics. The following are some of the unusual yet beautiful fabric options for trench coats:

1. Leather Faux and Vinyl

Faux leather is now available in every hue imaginable, and leather coats and jackets are a never-ending trend. Just be aware that several of these selections may be a little stiff. Therefore, it is best to purchase some sample pieces first so you may choose a softer imitation leather or vinyl for your coat.

2. Brocade and Jacquard

These materials exude elegance, and they frequently drape beautifully. Many include embroidered and colorful metallic embellishments. The only negative side to these is that some are difficult to wash, which may force you to dry clean your trench.

3. Sateen

Who doesn’t adore a coat that makes a statement? This fabric is lightweight, so it’s easier to wear around. However, this fabric is prone to wrinkles, so it’s only suitable for coats intended for strolls around the park.

Best Fabric Selection Styles

man trying on trench coat in a store

Do you need more fabric ideas for your trench coats? Here are other choices to consider based on some of our beloved trench coat brands:

1. Traditional (100% Cotton)

A trench coat made entirely of cotton is always a good place to start. One of the most popular materials for premium trench coats is gabardine, which Thomas Burberry invented. This fabric’s construction is so densely woven that it possesses water-resistant qualities—the ideal fusion of fashion and utility. No wonder, these are popular.  Additionally, 100% cotton trench coats frequently have a more traditional, crisp cut that gives them a defined form.

2. Blend (Cotton Blend)

Cotton blend trench coats are those made from cotton and other types of material, such as rayon and spandex. You can notice how structured it is but it has some stretch. The good thing about this fabric is the polyester. It makes the material more water-resistant and less prone to wrinkles.

3. Soft (Rayon Blend)

A soft and cozy trench coat can be great to wear.  Moreover, it is simple to put on and does not require effort to button up.  While it is best to use cotton fabrics, you do not have to choose them if you are after softness. In fact, some brands do not use cotton or just a little of it in making their trench coats. For instance, a 10% polyester and 90% rayon blend is common for its soft trench coats.

More viscose or rayon generally equates to more drape. This fabric has a highly fluid, flexible texture because rayon makes up practically all of it.

Conclusion

Selecting the best fabric for your trench coats depends on what matters most to you. Are you after structure, warmth, or softness? This is one of the questions you must ask before purchasing a trench coat.