There are few brands as integral to British cultural history as Burberry. A monolith of British fashion and culture, the brand has been delivering versatile outerwear and accessories since 1856. The house’s first product? Outerwear which soon led to the classic Burberry trench coat, constructed from weather-resistant gabardine fabric – an invention by founder, Thomas Burberry. Today the brand reimagines its heritage roots with Vintage Check patterns across scarves and bags punctuated by the revived Equestrian Knight symbol. Despite the brand’s ever-growing offering, the one product that has stood the test of time is undeniably the Burberry trench coat – the ultimate layerable piece and an investment promising perpetual value.

Keep reading for our top picks curated by the merchandising team. Plus, find out how to style your trench and have the ever-pressing question answered: how do you tie a Burberry trench coat?

Burberry Ellingham trench coat

Despite retaining traditional Burberry trench elements, the Ellingham sets itself apart with its seamless integration of features seen in other famous styles. Its fit-and-flare shape provides a flattering silhouette while its car coat collar adds a preppy touch, and curlicue pockets a whimsical femininity. If you’re not sold on the standard Burberry trench but you still want to keep a decent length, this is the perfect pick.

Burberry Kensington Heritage trench coat

A Heritage Collection piece, the Burberry Kensington promises length and a looser structure. An eternal classic, it’s perfect for dressing down with a low-key tracksuit or throwing over your officewear with a suede tote. This style comes in cashmere to ensure you get your mileage during winter but more lightweight fabrics, lengths and colors are available too.

Burberry Chelsea Heritage trench coat

The namesake of the famous London borough, the Burberry Chelsea trench is a must for those looking for figure-hugging cuts. When belted, its cinched waist creates sharp lines that flare out. This Burberry trench coat, available in sand and navy tones, is perfect for those who don’t plan to layer up with bulky fabrics. It embodies the brand's traditional style, from its epaulettes to its double-breasted closure. If you’re looking for a lightweight coat that is instantly recognizable, this is it.

Burberry Waterloo double-breasted trench coat

A military-style trench coat that provides a voluminous fit and straighter lines from top to bottom. It’s long enough to pass the knees and graze the calves. Like its Heritage trench peers, the Waterloo trench still nods to its roots with double-breasted button fastening, belted cuffs, epaulettes and a storm shield.

Burberry Waterloo double-breasted trench coat

The Camden Heritage Car trench is characterized by its single-breasted button front, belt-free silhouette and minimalist design. The car coat was popularised in the early 20th century when cars were becoming more popular. Most of these cars were open-air, resulting in a need for functional outerwear. Today, the car coat provides a sartorial nod to its heritage while providing fashion connoisseurs with a versatile outer layer year-round.

Burberry Vintage Check-print trench coat

If you want more than a trench coat, this Burberry Vintage Check trench is the item to opt for. Its bold print is instantly recognizable as a hark back to the Britpop culture of the 90s and the Y2K looks that we’ve been lovingly recreating in recent years. This is more than just a trench coat, it’s a cultural touchpoint.

Burberry Castleford trench coat

The Burberry Castleford trench offers a modern, relaxed fit, single-breasted design. Crafted in signature cotton gabardine, it’s a simplified take on the iconic trench coat, featuring clean lines, a covered placket and minimal detailing for a contemporary, effortlessly cool look. Of course, a touch of Vintage Check peeking out of the collar always sweetens the deal.

We asked our head of merchandising, Doralice Belli, how she styles this iconic piece.

‘Whether dressed up or down, the trench adapts effortlessly to your style and the occasion. For an elegant, refined look, think power dressing at its finest — add it to sharp tailored pieces and sleek accessories. Or channel a London grunge vibe by pairing it with heavy boots and distressed denim for an edgy twist. For something preppy, nothing beats a trench coat over loafers and a pleated skirt. Whatever your style, Burberry has you covered.’

The way you tie your trench coat belt is a subtle marker of style. The classic way to wear it is to thread the belt through the loops, buckle it in the front, and then create a neat knot. But universally popular is the casual half-knot at the back of the jacket. To do this, simply loop the belt ends behind your back and tie them into a simple, loose knot – just like tying your shoelaces. Allow the ends to hang down to add some shape and flow to the silhouette.

Not quite. The brand’s founder, Thomas Burberry, invented gabardine fabric in 1879 especially for use in Burberry’s outerwear. Designed in a tight twill weave which is naturally water repellent, the material is unfortunately not 100% waterproof. So while a Burberry trench can fare light drizzles, it won’t keep you dry in a heavy downpour.

Olivia Woodhouse is an SEO copywriter at FARFETCH, where she optimizes on-site content and has helped relaunch the fashion blog as the Fashion Feed. With a background spanning fashion, lifestyle, tech and travel, she brings a versatile voice to every project.