6 Easy Ways to Style a Cropped Trench Coat This Fall
Four EASY WAYS TO STYLe
A Cropped Trench Coat
Trench coats have always been a wardrobe staple, but this cropped trench coat is proving to be way more versatile than you’d think. I first mentioned it in my Fall Style Trend Guide, and it’s quickly become one of my most-worn layering pieces this season.
From dressing it up with a sweater dress and knee-high boots to throwing it on with leggings and sneakers for a travel day, the cropped trench adds the perfect mix of structure and polish to just about any outfit.
In this post, I’m styling 6 outfit ideas featuring a cropped trench, including the budget-friendly version I’m wearing in the photos and video, and a plus-size friendly option I was so excited to find. Whether you’re petite, curvy, tall, or somewhere in between, this silhouette can totally work for you… and I’ll show you how!
Weekend Classic / COFFEE DATE
Casual Friday, apple picking, or meeting a friend for lunch, this outfit works for it all. A crisp white button-down, straight-leg denim, and flats create an easy, timeless base. The cropped trench ties it all together with that effortless, “I just threw this on” kind of polish we all love.
Office-Ready Polished
For workdays or meetings when you want to look pulled together but not overdone, this combo hits the mark. Black flared pants and a striped top feel classic under the cropped trench, while a structured bag and cap-toe flats add a touch of sophistication. Perfect for a day at the office or a lunch meeting downtown.
CROPPED TRENCH (XXL)
SIMILAR CROPPED TRENCH (XS-3X) | SIMILAR CROPPED TRENCH
STRIPED TOP (XXL)
BLACK FLARE PANTS (18)
SIMILAR PANTS (USE CARALYN15)
Effortless & Elevated / BRUNCH LOOK
Heading to brunch, a family get-together, or a day date? Layering the cropped trench over a cream knit dress creates a cozy yet refined look. Add suede boots and a textured clutch for a tonal, fall-forward outfit that’s comfortable enough to wear all day.
CROPPED TRENCH (XXL)
SIMILAR CROPPED TRENCH (XS-3X) | SIMILAR CROPPED TRENCH
DRESS (XL)
SIMILAR DRESS (I OWN IN XXL)
TRAVEL-READY CASUAL
Running errands, heading to the airport, or squeezing in a coffee run between plans? This look is the definition of casual polish: a striped tee, leggings, sneakers, and a baseball cap make it comfy and cool, while the cropped trench instantly elevates it. Throw on your favorite weekender bag, and you’re out the door.
CROPPED TRENCH (XXL)
SIMILAR CROPPED TRENCH (XS-3X) | SIMILAR CROPPED TRENCH
STRIPED SHIRT (XXL)
LEGGINGS (XL) | PLUS SIZE LEGGINGS | MATERNITY LEGGINGS
For more travel outfit inspiration, see this recent post!
BONUS LOOKS: TWO MORE WAYS I’VE WORN IT
Snapped in the mirror but too good not to share, here are two more real-life outfits featuring the cropped trench. Whether you’re layering it over activewear or pairing it with a midi skirt, this piece keeps proving just how wearable it is.
Thanks for reading!
I hope this gave you some fresh inspiration for styling a cropped trench; it’s truly one of those pieces that can do it all.
And if you’re in the mood to update your wardrobe, be sure to check out the other fall fashion posts now live on the blog. You’ll find them all under the Fashion tab on my site! And if you’re ready to recreate these looks, everything’s linked over on my LTK page for easy browsing.
xx CMK
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Fall 2025 Shoe Trends You’ll Actually Want To Wear
FALL DENIM MADE EASY: MY FAVORITE FITS OF THE SEASON
What’s Trending This Fall: Style Staples, Colors & Outfit Inspo
Photos by Ryan Kell