With April showers approaching, it’s time for the return of the trench coat, the quintessential spring must-have. Not too heavy, not too light (dare we say, just right?), and typically made from water-repellant and wind-resistant fabrics, trenches are the outerwear of choice for transitional weather. While knee- and calf-length jackets are always a wise wardrobe investment, this season, a new crop of, well, cropped styles are trending.
Rather than a traditional, longline trench coat, cropped styles are a bit boxier and often more casual, offering a modern twist on a classic staple. From chic khaki and green options to unique silhouettes and fabrics, like cape jackets and denim iterations, there are plenty of styles to peruse.
Read on to pluck out a sporty design for long walks, a lady-like style for work and al fresco dinners, or a versatile jacket that can do it all.
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Khaki Cropped Trench Coats
Khaki-colored coats are a tried-and-true trench style that will forever work. Thanks to the neutral colorway that goes with almost everything, it’s also the easiest style. Consider the various shades of khaki (sand, camel, etc.) to find the one that best suits you. Then look out for details like double-breasted closures for a touch of distinction.
Sam Edelman Gina Convertible Trench Jacket, $, available at Anthropologie
L’Agence Kento Crop Trench Coat
L’Agence Kento Crop Trench Coat, $, available at Shopbop
Torrid Lightweight Twill Crop Trench
Torrid Lightweight Twill Crop Trench, $, available at Torrid
Gap Asymmetrical Trench Jacket
Gap Asymmetrical Trench Jacket, $, available at Gap
BCBG Max Azria Double Breasted Crop Trench Coat
BCBG Max Azria Double Breasted Crop Trench Coat, $, available at Nordstrom
Cropped Cape Trench Coats
Capes will define 2025, so why not jump aboard the trend with a cropped cape trench coat? Whether you opt for a sleeveless button-down cape that floats with every movement, or one with fluttery sleeves and a poncho-like silhouette, there’s a range of cropped styles that are both functional and fashion-forward.
& Other Stories Cropped Trench Cape, $, available at & Other Stories
Zara Short Cape Trench Coat
Zara Short Cape Trench Coat, $, available at Zara
Ann Taylor Cropped Trench Poncho
Ann Taylor Cropped Trench Poncho, $, available at Ann Taylor
Maje Short Cape-Effect Trench Coat
Maje Short Cape-Effect Trench Coat, $, available at Maje
Max Mara Fred Crop Trench Cape
Max Mara Fred Crop Trench Cape, $, available at Saks Fifth Avenue
Green Cropped Trench Coats
If you’re looking for neutral outerwear that’s versatile, but still stands out from a sea of trenches, consider going green. Think olive, moss, sage, or, of course, khaki green. With a wide range of light and deep hues — plus streamlined and utility-inspired silhouettes — you can find the style that’ll complement your spring wardrobe.
Abercrombie and Fitch Relaxed Short Trench Coat, $, available at Abercrombie and Fitch
Land’s End Trench Rain Jacket
Land’s End Trench Rain Jacket, $, available at Land’s End
Mango Double-Breasted Cropped Trench Coat
Mango Double-Breasted Cropped Trench Coat, $, available at Mango
Massimo Dutti Trench Coat Short Layer Water Repellent
Massimo Dutti Trench Coat Short Layer Water Repellent, $, available at Massimo Dutti
Universal Thread Trench Coat
Universal Thread Trench Coat, $, available at Target
Unique Cropped Trench Coats
Step out of the box with a short trench (or trench-inspired jacket) that doesn’t play by the traditional rules. Maybe that means opting for a denim fabric (instead of classic cotton gabardins), or for fresh details like dainty cut-outs, dramatic collars, and cinching belts.
By Anthropologie Cropped Trench Coat, $, available at Anthropologie
Cuyana Overlay Collar Jacket
Cuyana Overlay Collar Jacket, $, available at Cuyana
H&M Short Trench Coat
H&M Short Trench Coat, $, available at H&M
Favorite Daughter The Cropped Charles Trench
Favorite Daughter The Cropped Charles Trench, $, available at Shopbop
Banana Republic Factory Denim Short Trench Jacket
Banana Republic Factory Denim Short Trench Jacket, $, available at Banana Republic Factory
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