TRANSITIONAL seasons are the most difficult to dress for, but a classic trench is always a fail-safe.
As Marks & Spencer’s viral version has (finally) been restocked, I had to try the high-street jacket for myself.
M&S Belted Longline Trench Coat, £79
For days when there’s a chill in the air but it’s not yet cold enough for our winter fashion — the trusty trench is always a popular choice.
Every year the longline style returns, and Marks & Spencer’s Belted Trench Coat has received rave reviews online.
One of the first things I noticed about the high-street number is how expensive it looks.
It’s priced at £79, but if I was blindly guessing, I’d put it at around the £150 mark.
A true staple coat is one that can be thrown on during the day, but also worn with evening pieces to give a smart finish.
The M&S trench does that, and I’ve styled it with everything from wide-leg trousers and dresses for the office to fitted maxi dresses for evening occasions.
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I’ll also be pairing it with chunky knits as the weather cools down, before switching it out for my thicker coat for winter.
You can also read the best coats of the season for more autumn fashion inspiration.
The double-breasted design and buttoned cuffs is what gives the trench a polished look, finished with smart epaulettes on the shoulders.
As for the detachable belt, I love that it can cinch the waist to create a flattering shape, or be completely removed for a relaxed look.
The only downside I noticed is that the coat does show creases, so I have had to stream it a couple of times to maintain its polished appearance.
It also comes in black, which will be even easier to style with just about any outfit (and won’t show the creases).
The trench returned to M&S earlier this season after going viral in 2024, along with the retailer’s popular Toteme dupe jacket that’s £2,000 cheaper than the original.
There’s plenty of other options on the high-street, including H&M’s similar chocolate brown trench.
You can also read Fabulous’ roundup of the best trench coats, but the M&S version is my personal favourite due to the luxury feel without the extortionate price tag.
The high-street coat has racked up hundreds of five-star ratings on the Marks & Spencer website.
M&S Belted Longline Trench Coat, £79
One fashion fan wrote: “The perfect coat, looks vert smart and it will be great for all occasions, especially for autumn.
It’s reasonably priced and amazing quality.”
Another added: “I had been looking for a traditional coloured trench coat for ages, and this one is just what I wanted.
Although I’m petite, I bought the standard longer length to give better cover.
It will be useful all year round, and it’s a good fit that will allow for a winter jumper underneath.”
The fashion find has already sold out multiple times in the beige colour, and the new stock is already selling out online fast.
A timeless trench is an investment piece that can be worn every year, and the lightweight design is ideal for the autumn and spring months.
The verdict: Is the M&S trench coat worth it?
Marks & Spencer’s viral trench coat has caused mass sell-outs for a reason — and the wardrobe staple looks far more expensive than it is.
I’ll be wearing mine out and about and to the office throughout the autumn, and layering it up with chunky knitwear as the weather gets colder.
Both colours are versatile enough to throw on over any outfit, and it’s likely that the beige colour will be sold out again soon.
M&S Belted Longline Trench Coat, £79 – buy here
