The 1 Spring Staple Every Woman Should Have in Her Closet

• Color: Classic trench coats tend to be khaki or beige, though the exact tone may differ. Make sure to try on both cool- and warm-colored coats to find the one that best matches your skin tone.
• Lining: A removable lining can be a must-have element if you're looking for a coat that can carry you through all seasons. The lining offers extra warmth during colder months, while removing it means you can keep cool when the temperatures begin to climb.
• Double Breast: Trench coats are traditionally double-breasted, which ties in to the coat's military history. Traditionally, the coat also features 10 buttons.
• Collar: A trench coat usually has a collar that can be turned up to keep nasty weather out of your face. Also, many collars have a clasp at the top to keep the sides together.
• Pockets: Pockets in trench coats are often accessible from both the inside and outside so the outer opening can be closed (traditionally by button) to prevent rain from getting in.
• Belt: Many trench coats feature a belt at the waist.
• Storm Shield: The extra fabric across the back allows the coat to be breathable, preventing wearers from having a sweaty back.
• Sleeve Loops: Trench coats often tighten at the bottom of the sleeves to prevent water from seeping in.
• Storm Patch: In original trench coats, this flap served a double purpose, to wick away more rain and also to protect from the kickback of a rifle.
• Material: Traditionally, a trench coat is made of a water-resistant cotton twill. Other variations include Gore-Tex or leather.
• Raglan sleeves: The sleeves of a trench coat extend fully to the collar, leaving a diagonal seam instead of one on top of the shoulder.
• Epaulettes: These shoulder straps come as part of the coat's military background. These tabs are often used to indicate rank. They also have a utility purpose for securing items such as gloves.
• Length: Trench coats vary in length from long — hovering around the ankle — to shorter thigh length.
• D Rings: Coats featured small rings for attaching items to carry along like a canteen.

Additional reporting by Aemilia Madden